Computer controlled light shows are not that difficult to build. To most peoples surprise, the cost of running this display is actually less than the same static display. This is because vary rarely is the display 100% on. My power bill for December of 2007 was around $30 more than typical.

The basic components are of course Christmas lights. Any kind will work. Minis, C-9/C-7 bulbs, Led lights, Etc.

A computer is need to both sequence the lights to the music and to also run the show itself. For my display, I use Aurora  Show sequencing software.

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A light controller is needed to translate the computer signals to the lights. Once again, I used D-light's 16 channel Control Box. Most controllers are either 8 channels or 16 channels.  This means that you can control the function of each set of lights that is plugged into the channel. Multiple  controllers  can be linked  together to get as many channels as you need or your bank account can afford.

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Finally, most shows also use a FM transmitter to broadcast the music for the show over a blank FM frequency. We are allowed to do this because the FCC require all radio station to leave a open slot in between stations.  For example 107.1 and 107.5 are radio  stations. 107.3 is blank. As long as we use short range broadcasting devices, we don’t have the FCC knocking on our door. We here at Lights on sixth use a Whole House Transmitter. There are other transmitters out there such as Belkin and Ramsey.

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Along with those items, you'll also need a lot of extension cords, (I'm up to almost 1800 feet this year), and some creativity, you can create your own  Computer Controlled Light Show.

 

For more information, please visit Planet Christmas.  This website is home to a lot of Christmas Light Fanatics like myself who are willing to help anyone out with any issue or question you might have on the Christmas Displays. Just stop by and visit the Forum.