What is macro for stage lighting?

Modern lighting for stage productions is controlled by computerized lighting consoles, commonly referred to as "light boards."Many light board manufacturers offer models that allow users to program macros into the computer that the board will remember for later use.

Definition

A macro is a series of functions or keystrokes that are programmed to be executed with the press of a single button or button combination. The way macros function on a light board is similar to the way they function in other computer programs such as spreadsheet software--the user must record the individual keystrokes or steps in the appropriate format and assign that function to an available macro button.

Purpose
Macros conserve time during commonly performed tasks, but because every theater has slightly different needs, the common tasks vary from theater to theater. Programmable macros allow individual designers, technical directors and production electricians to create shortcuts to their commonly performed tasks without depending on the manufacturers to anticipate their needs.

Uses

One of the common uses for a macro in stage lighting is a programmed command for a channel check. A channel check brings each light on to a low glow (generally 15 to 20 percent of full power) so the electrical crew can walk on stage and look up at the lights to see if any lamps are burnt out. While this command can be performed manually with a series of keystrokes to bring these channels up, it generally takes 9 to 10 keystrokes, whereas a macro uses just one. Other common functions include one-button saving to disk or turning off all lights except work lights.

Vedio below shows the test play of lighting dj before a musical show.