Road Hog keeps Grace and Frankie in control
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But for Scott Webb, lighting programmer from Local 728, all is in control in the studios with High End Systems’ Road Hog 4 and Hoglet 4s.
Webb purchased and supplies the Road Hog 4, which runs lighting for the two main stages for the Emmy-nominated series. The show is now filming its fifth season at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. In prior seasons, Webb rented a Full Boar 4, and purchased the Road Hog 4 at the start of season four.
Webb also owns and supplies two Hoglet 4s with DMX Processor 8000s. One system runs lighting on a third stage, while the other is moved to other set locations when needed.
Citing 500 conventional dimmers and various LED film lights in the rig, Webb notes, “This show doesn't have anything real flashy. No movers or cool effects. It's more about managing lots of channels and maintaining the proper looks from scene to scene, episode after episode.”
Webb manages the channels and maintains proper looks by using a few favourite console features to help him run the show.
“One feature I use quite a bit is Dotted Fixture Numbers. It allows me to manage LED fixtures with multiple channels quickly,” he explains. “I use the function keys for quick access to commands I use non-stop. I also like the large screen, which enables me to lay out my group buttons according to how the set is laid out. I use an (optional) external monitor for my Output window.”
The programmer has felt comfortable with the Hog operating system for many years, he says: “I’ve owned Hogs since 2004. They have been reliable and enabled me to do anything I’ve needed to do,” he explains. “I’ve also had great tech support when needed.”
(Jim Evans)
