Canto USA product FAQs

Start by reviewing the facility and application:

• Distance from the followspot location to the stage and back of the stage
• Available power, including voltage and dedicated circuits
• Whether the booth is open or enclosed behind glass
• Noise requirements
• Desired lamp or source color temperature
• Required footcandles onstage
• The output of the other stage fixtures
• Whether the fixture will be permanently installed or portable
• Space constraints in catwalk or booth applications

Canto USA or an authorized representative can use these details to recommend an appropriate followspot.

Power companies and energy-efficiency programs may offer rebates to encourage public and private facilities to replace older lighting technology with energy-saving LED systems.

The RETRO series of fixtures consists of four high-powered LED retrofit kits that are able to dim on most existing dimming systems all the way to 0%, like a tungsten lamp, without adding or replacing the current lighting fixtures.

A common cause is insufficient load on the dimming system. Some older dimming systems require a minimum load of approximately 100 to 200 watts to keep TRIAC or SCR electronics stable. Replacing several 500-watt lamps with much lower-wattage LED units can create instability at lower control levels and cause flicker or shimmer.

One possible correction is combining compatible circuits to increase the load, but the required value varies by dimmer manufacturer and system. A failing dimmer or distorted AC waveform can also cause flicker because the LED driver is sensitive to incoming power quality. Work with a qualified technician and the dimming-system manufacturer before changing circuits or settings.

Canto USA guidance states that standard A or B gobos could be used in Canto followspots. The Aurora™ X1 uses a B sized gobo. Confirm current accessory compatibility for the exact followspot model before ordering or installing a gobo holder.

Possible adjustments depend on the dimming system:

• If the dimmer rack allows zero-crossing or rise-time adjustments, a higher rise time may improve behavior. Confirm the correct setting with the dimmer manufacturer.
• Enable 16-bit dimming mode when the control system supports it, which can provide more output steps during fades.
• Use a smoothing mode when available on newer dimming systems.
• Check whether the dimmer rack shares power with motors, sound equipment, air-conditioning equipment, or other devices that may affect power quality.

Consult Canto USA technical support and the dimmer manufacturer before changing system configuration.

Some programs base the rebate on estimated power savings. For example, replacing a 500-watt lamp with a 49-watt LED retrofit can reduce connected load by 451 watts. The utility or program administrator may calculate long-term savings and provide a qualified incentive to offset part of the upgrade cost.

Legacy guidance stated that many units were normally in stock with a typical turnaround of one to three days. Inventory and lead times change, so confirm the current schedule with Canto USA or an authorized representative before placing the order.

ENERGY STAR and the DesignLights Consortium establish performance requirements that may be recognized by utilities and energy-efficiency programs. ENERGY STAR is government-backed, while DLC is a nonprofit organization that works with utilities, efficiency programs, manufacturers, and lighting professionals. Eligibility requirements and covered product categories change over time, so confirm the current program rules before specifying a product for a rebate.

ENERGY STAR and DLC use different product categories and technical requirements. The legacy Canto USA FAQ described ENERGY STAR as covering certain lower-wattage lamps and retrofits and DLC as using different efficacy thresholds and categories. Because program rules evolve, verify current qualification requirements with the local utility, ENERGY STAR, DLC, and the product documentation.

Contact a local Canto USA factory representative, authorized dealer, or the factory. They can help identify the existing fixtures, operating requirements, suitable replacement products, and information that may be needed for a utility rebate application.

RETRO model numbers have historically corresponded to the tungsten wattage range they are intended to replace. For metal-halide fixtures, compare fixture lumen output and the application requirements rather than relying on wattage alone. Confirm the final selection with Canto USA or an authorized representative.

The RETRO series of LED products is designed and built in the United States at Canto USA in Marietta, Georgia.

The RETRO Series is designed to work with many existing dimming systems. Some systems may require adjustments to keep the electronics stable and maximize performance. Compatible system types may include SCR, TRIAC, IGBT, and sine-wave dimmer racks. Confirm the specific application with Canto USA or the dimming-system manufacturer.

The legacy standard configuration was 3000K at 80+ CRI. Other color temperatures and CRI options may be available. Contact Canto USA for current availability, lead times, and model specifications.

Legacy options included 2700K, 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, 5000K, 5700K, and 6500K. Confirm current availability for the specific RETRO model and CRI requirement.

No. The legacy safety listings limited RETRO products to indoor, dry-location use. Confirm the current listing and installation requirements for the specific model before installation.

Legacy guidance stated that non-stock units could require approximately five to six weeks and custom orders could require six to eight weeks, depending on quantity and parts availability. Contact Canto USA or an authorized representative for current lead times.

Pricing is available through authorized distributors and resellers and is generally project-specific so the system can be configured for the actual application. Use the Find Reps page or contact Canto USA for current pricing.

Call the Canto USA technical service team at 1-888-252-5912 for help with technical issues, dimming questions, and specific applications.