Preparation and troubleshooting
Tour Hog: system preparation and planned maintenance
Identify generation, show file, peripherals and versions before adapting the show.
Prepare the show and schedule updates
This page covers the new-generation Tour Hog. The current family offers 64 universes and four local DMX outputs; further distribution needs receivers and network planning. HogNet and FixtureNet serve different roles: document each connection.
The official table lists 5.3.0, released October 20, 2026, as not backward compatible and requiring full installation. Keep the original and check source, destination and backup versions before conversion. Schedule any update outside the show, with time to verify the system afterward.
Programmer and playback have independent firmware. ETC says to update only when release notes or support require it; record FW in System Info. Different numbers alone do not establish failure.
- Preserve original show, copy and configuration; list exact console, OS/build, panels, screens, wings and processors. Distinguish Tour Wing from Tour Hog.
- Prepare patch, physical/network destinations, run sheet and operator controls. Test the file on the delivery version and intended backup arrangement.
- If controls behave unexpectedly, record the affected section, FW, OS, device and when the symptom began. Check the official notes before attributing the symptom to the showfile or installing firmware.
- Schedule installation outside the event with documented recovery and subsequent key, fader, screen, cue and output tests. Do not improvise a downgrade as diagnosis.
Will a 5.3 show open on an earlier version?
The official table marks it not backward compatible. Retain the original and agree on delivery software before editing.
Does an OS update necessarily update the whole panel?
Not necessarily. Sections have separate firmware. Check the release notes and follow the official requirements for the panel.
Do four connectors mean four total universes?
No. Processing capacity and physical outputs differ; map how each universe reaches the rig.
What can you prepare?
We can assess console, file adaptation, network, peripherals, operation and backup. Send date, venue and approximate needs; compatibility and availability require verification.
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