Lighting and control
Antari F-7 Smaze
F-7 Smaze combines Fog and Faze modes. Choose by the scene and venue, with separate output and fan control; the effects are not equivalent.
Model and connections
| Model and connections | Antari F-7 Smaze |
|---|---|
| Model | Antari F-7 Smaze; distinct from F-7X |
| Control | Manual, timer and 3-channel DMX; 3/5-pin XLR |
| Documented baseline fluid | Antari FLG-5E; other options depend on manufacture date and approval |
| Electrical version | US and EU variants; verify labels and machine/fan power connections |
Show scenario
One entrance needs a visible accent while another scene calls for a sustained atmosphere. We propose comparing Fog and Faze with the same lighting, camera and ventilation, then choosing a cue by its actual result.
We can assess rental or integration, fluid, preparation, control and an operator. Compare a dedicated hazer for subtle continuity or an F-7 accent. If atmosphere is prohibited, we can propose a lighting alternative. Start with use, date and venue.
Prepare the system
- Identify F-7, manufacture date, electrical variant and unit documentation; confirm venue approval and fire-detection coordination.
- Place it securely with at least 50 cm clear around it; check grounded circuits, machine/fan connections and approved fluid.
- Wait for Ready to Fog. Check mode, output and fan separately, then starting address and three non-overlapping channels.
- Rehearse the cue, dispersal, noise and visibility in actual conditions; test stopping and allow documented self-cleaning before normal power removal.
Questions and solutions
Are Fog and Faze interchangeable?
No. Mode selection changes the effect; output and fan remain separate controls. Compare a short accent with sustained atmosphere in rehearsal. Do not choose solely by room size or the product name.
Which fluid should this F-7 use?
The linked manual specifies FLG-5E. The official 2023 catalog also lists FLH-5E and FLZ-5E only for machines manufactured after May 2020. Verify manufacture date and unit-specific approval before substitution; do not use oil-based hazer fluid or mixtures.
Why does DMX change the effect or produce no fog?
Check the three-channel patch: channel 1 selects Faze at 0–127 or Fog at 128–255; channel 2 controls output, with 0–5 off; channel 3 controls the fan. Verify address and profile before changing wireless settings.
Does zero DMX stop the fan?
Not in the manual’s DMX table: channel 3 at 0–5 corresponds to 20% fan speed. Arrange a noise test when microphones are close; a zero value is not a promise of silence.
How do I confirm warm-up and shut down?
Wait for Ready to Fog; numerical warm-up times differ between manual sections. Normal shutdown calls for holding STOP for three seconds and allowing self-cleaning to finish. For faults or spills, stop and disconnect according to safety instructions rather than prioritizing that cycle.
Does a W-DMX link prove show data is arriving?
No. The display distinguishes an assigned transmitter without data from received signal. Check installed module, protocol, transmitter data and patch; compare wired DMX as a proposed test. Do not assume CRMX² compatibility or guaranteed range.
Precautions
- Dry indoor operation with ventilation and supervision; keep outlets clear and do not open the housing. No flammable fluids or additives.
- Arrange atmosphere approval and fire-detection coordination with the venue; do not disable systems. Preserve circulation and visibility, and stop if conditions become unsafe.
Sources and documentation
- Antari F-7 — official user manual
- Antari support — manual selector
- Antari 2023 Product Guide — F-7 fluid conditions
Consulted October 23, 2026. F-7 manual linked from support, labeled Rev.04 in the selector; 2023 catalog for fluid conditions. Rehearsal and physical unit version remain to be confirmed.