Lighting and control

Astera AX3 LightDrop

Prepare AX3-CRMX with an app bridge, defined control source and charging-socket cover suitable for outdoor use.

Ask GLMedia about renting Astera AX3 LightDrop for your event. Availability and configuration are subject to confirmation.

Model and purpose

Manufacturer: Astera
Model: Astera AX3 LightDrop
Variant: AX3-CRMX; RGBW engine
Optics: Native 13° beam; 30° and 120° diffusers
Charging: 5 VDC / 2.5 A; compatible AX3 charger
Control: CRMX, AsteraApp through an external bridge, infrared and button

A small battery spot for accents, objects and surfaces, with a folding stand and mounting options. Diffusers change coverage; there is no motorized zoom. The magnet and bracket serve different purposes and do not replace secondary retention for suspended use.

Prepare your rental inquiry

Date, city, venue and setup, event and pickup schedule.
Intended use, area dimensions and equipment already supplied by the venue or production.
Color, brightness and total powered time, including checks and waiting.
Chargers or case, compatible control, placement and replacement plan.

Specify equipment only or whether setup, programming, operation and strike are also needed. Scope is confirmed in the proposal.

You do not need a final equipment list: tell us the result you want and the part you need help with. Availability and scope are confirmed in the proposal.

Features and connections

The documented fixture has no wired XLR DMX input. Console control needs the compatible wireless link; app control needs AsteraBox or another compatible BTB.

A bridge connected to the app does not confirm fixture pairing or active CRMX control. Define a control method for each check.

RGBW and DIM RGBW have different footprints. Technical manual examples are dated; match the fixture profile and strobe option before patching.

Prepare the system

Check AX3-CRMX, charge, cover and accessories. A new fixture needs a few seconds of charging to leave shipping mode before powering on.
For AsteraApp, connect the BTB first. With AX3 on, hold the button for 3 seconds until it flashes blue, then complete Pair with Lights.
Select Input Select, profile and address for the source. Record Runtime and intended brightness; autonomy depends on actual output and battery condition.

Questions and troubleshooting

Can the app access settings but not change colors?

Check which source has authority over output.

In documented AUTO operation, the first active source latches until power-off or an Input Select change. Check whether CRMX, app or Standalone took control.
Separate BTB connection from Pair with Lights. Do not assume AX3 has built-in Bluetooth because another Astera model does.
For a controlled check, select the intended source and an identified fixture. Avoid a general reset as the first step: it can clear the link you want to preserve.

Did CRMX stop responding after a reset?

On this revision, reset also unlinks CRMX.

Manual V1.1 describes holding the button through power-off, flashing blue and return to red. Besides unlinking, it restores Input Select to AUTO and Runtime to 5 h.
After that reset, link again to the intended transmitter and check profile and address. Do not copy reset behavior from another Astera model.
Record settings before clearing them and ensure output changes cannot affect the audience. App Pair with Lights does not replace CRMX linking.

Not charging, or apparently off while connected?

The main LED also indicates battery status.

Powered off and connected to the charger, the LED may go dark when charging is complete. Powered on, a short press displays status for 2 seconds.
Check charger, connector and temperature. If hot, switch off and allow cooling; do not open or bypass the battery or protection.
Charge under supervision, preferably at 15–35 °C. Do not store discharged; charge before storage and follow the manual’s maintenance instructions.

Quick reference

Pixel = 1 and Strobe = Off examples; verify the installed profile.
2018 technical reference	Order without strobe	Last possible start
Profile 2 RGBW	4: R, G, B, W	509
Profile 5 DIM RGBW	5: Dimmer, R, G, B, W	508

Precautions

IP65 only with AX3-SP cover correctly fitted; ambient 0–40 °C. The rating does not permit immersion or charging in rain.
Keep 0.3 m from illuminated objects and allow cooling before touch. Do not cover ventilation.
For suspension, attach safety retention to the designated rear point and limit possible drop to 20 cm as instructed. Qualified personnel must check rigging and accessories.

Terms on this page

DMX: A data protocol controlling lighting functions; each model defines what its channels mean.

Documentation and sources

Consulted: 2026-10-22. Astera manual V1.1 and 2018 technical reference in public copies. Verify actual firmware, profiles and accessories. Proposed checks without physical GLMedia testing.