Exploring Lighting Control Trends with ETC’s Craig Fox

ETC
At the second annual NYControlled event in New York City, Randy Reid of Edison Report sat down with Craig Fox, Northeast Territory Manager for ETC (Electronic Theatre Controls), to discuss the event and emerging trends in lighting controls. Fox shared his excitement about the event’s growth, noting how the larger space and increased attendance—expected to reach 700 to 800 people—reflect the event’s success and potential for expansion. Fox, a long-time supporter of New York-centric trade shows, mentioned that he was particularly impressed by how NYControlled has grown, even hinting at the possibility that it could one day compete with larger industry events.

Impressions of the Show

Reflecting on last year’s event, Fox praised the inaugural show and expressed his enthusiasm for its growth. “Last year was a fantastic start, and I’m always eager to sponsor events like this,” he noted, emphasizing his strong connection to New York-based trade shows. This year, the event has more than doubled its space, accommodating an estimated 700-800 attendees, a promising sign of its expanding influence.

“This show really reminds me of the early days of LightFair,” Fox said, referring to the simplicity and intimacy of the event. With clear signage and a focused layout, it’s easy for attendees to navigate and connect. This environment fosters meaningful conversations, something that can sometimes be challenging at larger events due to their size and pace.

A Focus on Controls with ETC at NYControlled

Fox expressed his appreciation for the control-centric nature of the show, as lighting controls are an area of deep interest for him. He also mentioned his support for ISNC (Illuminating Society of North America) and DLF New York (Design Lighting Forum of New York), noting that their backing of this event aligns with ETC’s commitment to advancing lighting technology and controls.

ETC’s Showcase: Innovation in Driver and Wireless Control Technology

When asked about what ETC is featuring this year, Fox shared that their booth showcases some of ETC’s latest innovations in driver technology and wireless controls. Additionally, ETC is exhibiting a few color-changing fixtures equipped with advanced dimming capabilities, enabled by their proprietary drivers.

Trends in Lighting: The Power of Color Control

Fox highlighted some current trends in lighting, with color control being a standout theme. He noted that ETC’s expertise in color and color-changing technology has also led to advancements in tunable white lighting, which allows users to mix different color channels to achieve a desired hue or ambiance.

“Color control has evolved significantly, giving rise to tunable white technology,” Fox explained. While ETC’s products cater to both color-changing and tunable white needs, they remain committed to providing a full suite of color solutions that include beautiful dimming and exceptional performance.

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