This course introduces networking concepts required to build, operate, and troubleshoot a synchronized holiday lighting display. While many homeowners are familiar with basic internet and Wi-Fi connectivity, a lighting show network has unique requirements because it must reliably deliver lighting data to controllers and players with precise timing and minimal delays.
A significant portion of this training will focus on network design and addressing, primarily for pixel based displays. You will learn the difference between dynamic and static IP addressing, why most show equipment benefits from fixed IP addresses, and how proper network planning can simplify troubleshooting. Example network layouts will demonstrate how devices communicate within a dedicated show network and illustrate best practices for assigning and documenting device addresses.
Wireless networking discussions will include when wireless connections are appropriate and when wired Ethernet connections are preferred. You will learn that while wireless technologies can be useful for remote props and temporary installations, wired Ethernet remains the most reliable solution for carrying large amounts of pixel data and supporting critical show infrastructure.
The course will conclude with practical troubleshooting techniques, such as diagnosing common issues like controller communication failures, missing props, delayed effects, network congestion, synchronization problems, and IP address conflicts. Basic network diagnostic tools and controller status indicators will help decorators quickly identify and resolve issues during the show season.
By the end of the course, students will be able to design a dedicated show network, understand how lighting data travels between devices, configure networked controllers and LOR systems, and apply industry best practices for reliability and performance. Most importantly, participants will gain the knowledge needed to create a stable network infrastructure capable of supporting a synchronized holiday light show from a small residential display to a large multi-controller production.
Class Structure
All class times are listed in Eastern Time. Please be aware of the start time if you are in a different time zone.
Each group training session lasts 60 minutes. During this time, an instructor will teach 40-45 minutes of prepared content on the topic. 15-20 minutes will be reserved for class questions and discussion. The instructor will determine if all questions should be saved for the end, or if questions can be asked throughout. Reference materials or any pre-class review items will be provided after sign up.
Sessions are not recorded by Light-O-Rama. Each instructor has the right to choose to allow you to record their session, or request that you do not. Please respect their choice. For pre-recorded training videos, click here.
Registration & Changes
A maximum of 8 attendees can sign up for each Group Training. Trainings will be held if 1-8 people are registered at least 2 hours before the start time.
To reschedule or cancel a daytime session, you must contact the Light-O-Rama Helpdesk at least 2 hours before the session start time.
To reschedule or cancel a weeknight session, you must submit a ticket by 5pm ET that day.
To reschedule or cancel a weekend session, you must submit a ticket by 5pm ET on the prior Friday.
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Terms & Conditions
By submitting this payment, you agree to the following terms and conditions.
An internet connection is required for Training Sessions. Sessions are conducted via Zoom. The instructor will not spend class time teaching you how to use Zoom or troubleshooting your microphone or camera. Please test your connection prior to the meeting.
We strongly encourage software to be installed, relevant files to be open, and relevant hardware to be accessible before your Group session begins so you can make the most of your session time.
Sessions have a maximum of 8 attendees. Although the instructor will try their best to answer all questions, there may not be time to answer everyone's specific questions.
Cancellation or rescheduling requests must be made within the timeframes listed in "Registration & Changes" to receive a full refund. Sessions are not refunded for "No Shows" or cancellation requests that aren't made within the time requirements.
Sessions are not refunded if you misinterpret the time zone. All class times are listed in Eastern time.
Exceptions to the refund policy include verifiable medical emergencies, national emergencies, or verifiable power/internet outages.
If a Group Training Session is cancelled or a reschedule by the instructor for any reason, you may reschedule without a fee or choose to receive a full refund.
Sessions are not recorded. You may not record the session unless the instructor gives special permission. Instructors are not required to grant recording requests.
All class times are listed in Eastern Time. Please be aware of the start time if you are in a different time zone.
After booking a training session, two emails will be sent to you.
- A general confirmation for your order, which will additionally include information about other items in your order.
- An email you prompting you to view & download any pre-class materials. This email will also include instructions about joining the Zoom call. A passcode is required. The passcode can be found in that email.
The Zoom Room will be open 10 minutes before the start time.
The instructor will take attendance at the beginning of the meeting. The instructor will wait a maximum of 2 minutes past the start time if not all attendees are present. The instructor will not restart the lesson for you to catch up if you join late. Please be on time.
To reschedule or cancel a daytime session, you must contact the Light-O-Rama Helpdesk at least 2 hours before the session start time.
To reschedule or cancel a weeknight session, you must submit a ticket by 5pm ET that day.
To reschedule or cancel a weekend session, you must submit a ticket by 5pm ET on the prior Friday.
