Technical Info

How It's Controlled

Our display is controlled entirely by computer. Light controllers connect to the computer and perform the task of turning the lights on and off. We purchase our controllers in kit form from Light-O-Rama. But don't worry, their controllers are also available fully built and tested. I highly recommend their products.

A special program on the computer allows you to "sequence" the lights to the music. In the past, we have used the program sold by Light-O-Rama. However, in 2009 we switched to a new program called Aurora. Aurora is relatively new and lacks polish in some areas, however, it does an excellent job with videos (which was important to our 2009 show). Special note: Aurora used to charge for their product, but as of May 2010, it is now FREE.

The Radio Transmitter

A radio transmitter is required to get the music from the computer to your car radio. I modified a Belkin Tunecast II (which is meant to transmit music from your iPod to your car radio) so that it could broadcast at much greater distances. Instructions are available here:

• instructables
• computerchristmas.com

In 2010, we will be using a higher power transmitter purchased from eBay.

The Train

In the fall of 2008, I built a train for my display. Some aspects of the train worked great, some will definitely need changing in 2009. Here is a PowerPoint presentation I made to the members of Lone Star Holidays on Feb 7, 2009 containing construction details and learnings.

Video Wreath

New for 2009 is a video wreath. Click here for a PowerPoint presentation containing the preliminary construction details.