Zero 88 Raises the Bar for Training in 2019 Eaton's Zero 88 lighting control brand is dramatically ramping up its free training opportunities in 2019 -- open for all those utilizing lighting consoles running ZerOS architecture -- as part of a wider comprehensive product support program. This is as a direct result of a dramatic increase in the number of active ZerOS users in the UK, which has doubled in the last 12 months alone. The trend reflects the success of the FLX series of powerful, flexible, and affordable lighting consoles -- the FLX and FLX S24 and S48 -- which have enjoyed massive popularity especially for small-to-medium applications running rigs with some moving lights and a quantity of LED fixtures together with conventionals. Zero 88 has always been known for its commitment for training. In 2018, well over 500 individuals benefitted from this which including regular dedicated sessions at Eaton's bases in Cwmbran, Wales, and Watford, north of London, plus dealer day workshops as well as specialist on-site arrangements organized in conjunction with events like the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and selected industry trade shows. A Zero 88 team was on the ground during the 2018 Edinburgh Fringe, and delivered over 25 training workshops to nearly 120 lighting programmers and operators working in multiple venues with Zero 88 consoles in action throughout the world famous three-and-a-half-week arts extravaganza. "The model has been such an amazing success that we have decided to make it even more accessible for users at all levels in 2019," enthused Tyler Holpin, who is key UK accounts and international sales manager and coordinates the UK training program with product manager Jon Hole and product support specialists Nathanael Orr and Edward Smith. Hole adds that, in addition to major rental companies like Adlib, SLX, Hawthorn, and many more who have recently invested in FLX products, there's been an increase in requests for training from freelance designers, programmers, and operators as well as touring technicians, all eager to get the best out of these powerful, flexible, and user-friendly products. The training sessions follow a similar structure, but each one is individually tailored to cover the specific needs and products being used by those on the course. Taking a no-nonsense approach, the training is informed yet informal and friendly with the goal of ensuring that each attendee can leave more prepared for their next show or event. "We have put a lot of effort into pitching this right -- not just in terms of conveying information but ensuring that it's a welcoming atmosphere conducive to learning," commented Holpin. A one-day session will typically run from 10:00am to 4:00pm with a couple of breaks and lunch provided. There is lots of time for participants to chat and exchange experiences as well as get hands-on with the equipment and gain a real understanding of its potential. The sessions will include working with a visualizer system and a console; learning about patching; useful features like RigSync, RDM, and fixture personalities; and controlling color-changing and moving lights. The goal is for console users to gain confidence in programming and operation in both theatrical and live event scenarios, learning how ZerOS can assist them in working smartly and using time efficiently. Sessions staged at the factory in Cwmbran will also include a tour of the manufacturing facilities where Zero's consoles are proudly "Made in Wales." A specially-condensed version of the on-site sessions is available for intensive training of lighting operators and techs about to run a show with one of the consoles. All attendees receive a certificate of completion at the end of the training. A diverse cross section of sectors has been represented in the last 12 months -- from professionals from busy rental and AV businesses to school and educational establishment IT departments, local theatre volunteers of all ages, and experience levels and students. "You name it, we've trained them," declares Holpin, underlining the universally accessible nature of the training. For the Eaton Zero 88 team, it is also a great opportunity to gather user and product feedback from users on the front-line of the entertainment, all of which is invaluable for future product development. Anyone interested can click to www.zero88.com/training Legacy product training is also available -- please contact Zero 88 for further details. 
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