Wrong protocol???

[physiomech3]

Hello everyone. I've been using Falcon controllers for several years but still consider myself a beginner. So, I have a beginner question. I added a F16v5 this year (so a total of 3 controllers), but I feel like I can't run any more lights than I did last year. I thought, more controllers ... more lights. Could it be the protocol I'm using? I currently use ZCPP.

[JonD]

You did not mention many details.  If you are running 25,000 pixels that could be the issue.  DDP is preferred.

Falcon F16v2 series and older do not support DDP
Falcon F16v3/F4v3 will support DDP at firmware 2.58+ (2.59 is latest)
Falcon F16v4 & Falcon F16v5 support DDP

[Poporacer]

but I feel like I can't run any more lights than I did last year.

And what makes you feel that way? Show us a screenshot of why you think this is the case.
Like was mentioned, you didn't give us much information to go on.

I thought, more controllers ... more lights.

That is generally true... The F16V5 by itself can "control" 16,000 pixels. How many do you have?

Could it be the protocol I'm using? I currently use ZCPP.

That is highly unlikely unless you are running a million pixels.

[physiomech3]

Thanks for the replies. I am running two F16v3s, an F16v4, and an F16v5. There is not really a screen shot to provide. I set everything up in xLights with the ZCPP protocol. And then, simply put, as I assign lights to a port, lights on another port go off. I am using WS2811 regulated lights. Can the controller not provide enough power for them all? I just didn't have this problem last year.

[JonD]

DDP is the ideal standard.  If the F16v3s are at firmware 2.59 they will support DDP, the other two will by default.  I have seen DDP fix things, but not sure it would help in your case.  ZCPP is better than others.

You have not really mentioned the problem you are having?  Without more information I don't have any suggestions.

http://spikerlights.com/calcpower.aspx

[Poporacer]

I set everything up in xLights with the ZCPP protocol.

This would be a great screenshot to show us! (Please, a screenshot and not a picture of your screen)

And then, simply put, as I assign lights to a port

And a screenshot of HOW you are assigning lights to a port? Are you letting xLights manage your controllers? If not, you really should. Have you uploaded your controller configs after you have assigned your props?

lights on another port go off

And this is almost always a configuration issue.

Can the controller not provide enough power for them all?

The controller most certainly can, and I highly doubt it is a power supply issue.

I just didn't have this problem last year.

I am 99% certain this is just a configuration issue.

Jump in the Zoom room for a faster and better resolution to your problem. If you are not familiar with the Zoom Room, this might help?

[physiomech3]

Thanks, I'll try the zoom room!

john