Random Flickering – Troubleshooting Guidelines
If an Elation fixture is randomly flickering, start by confirming that the fixture is running the latest available firmware/software version for that specific model.
Then use the steps below to determine whether the flickering is coming from the fixture itself or from the control/data path.
1. Test the Fixture Without Data
Disconnect the DMX/data connection and operate the fixture in stand-alone or manual mode, where supported.
If the fixture continues to flicker without any data connected, the issue may be internal to the fixture.
If multiple fixtures are affected, test each fixture independently without data to determine whether they show the same behavior.
If the fixture operates normally without data, reconnect the control signal and continue with the steps below.
This helps determine whether the issue follows the fixture or the data/control system.
2. If Flickering Only Occurs With Data
If the fixture operates normally without data but begins flickering when control data is connected, start isolating the data path.
Confirm that the cabling is appropriate for DMX/data transmission.
Inspect cables and connectors for damage or poor connections.
Connect the console directly to one affected fixture using a known-good data cable.
Where possible, bypass splitters, nodes, switches, other fixtures, and other devices in the signal path.
Test the fixture again.
If the fixture operates normally when connected directly, reconnect components one at a time to help identify where the problem is being introduced.
3. Check RDM
If the flickering continues with a direct connection:
Confirm whether RDM is enabled on the control system.
Temporarily disable RDM and test the fixture again.
If disabling RDM resolves the issue, note the console/control system, console software version, fixture model, and fixture firmware version.
Keep this information available if the issue needs to be reviewed by Elation Technical Support.
4. Test Another Supported Control Protocol
If the fixture supports additional control protocols, test another supported protocol where practical.
Depending on the fixture and control system, this may include:
DMX
Art-Net
sACN
If changing protocols eliminates the flickering:
Note which protocol produces the issue.
Note which protocol operates normally.
Keep the rest of the test setup as consistent as possible.
This can help isolate whether the issue is related to a particular control or data path.
5. Test Another Control Source
If the fixture is running the latest firmware and the issue remains:
Test with another console or control source, if available.
Keep the test setup as simple as possible.
Use the same fixture and cabling where practical.
Compare the results.
This can help determine whether the behavior is associated with the fixture, control source, protocol, or data path.
Still Flickering?
If the flickering continues after completing these checks, submit a Technical Support request through the Elation Support Hub.
Please provide:
Exact fixture model(s)
Serial number(s), if available
Quantity of affected fixtures
Fixture firmware/software version(s)
Console/controller model
Console software version
Protocol being used — DMX, Art-Net, sACN, etc.
Whether the fixture flickers with data disconnected
Whether disabling RDM changes the behavior
Results when connecting directly with a known-good data cable
Results using another supported protocol, if tested
Results using another console/control source, if tested
Complete data path from the console to the affected fixture(s)
Models of any nodes, splitters, switches, or other devices in the data path
Photos or video showing the flickering, if helpful
Providing the complete system configuration and results of these tests will help Elation Technical Support determine whether the issue is related to the fixture or the control/data infrastructure.
Do not open the fixture or attempt internal electrical repairs unless instructed by Elation Technical Support or an authorized Elation service technician.