[propmastertucson]

Now considerer this.

For the past couple of years I have run a haunt in my front yard. The theme has been that of a graveyard. This year it will be Killer Clowns. I will be refitting the props with new costumes and mask.

The biggest change this year will be the upgrade to a PC based automation system.

The problem is how to lay out the haunt. What I mean is for the past years I would run a cord here and over there until everything was covered.

This year I have built what has been called snakes. That is to say a central point to plug into for the needed power needs of lighting and or props.

So what am I asking? How do you lay out your haunt before setup day comes? The past couple of years it has taken me a week to setup. So this year I would like to walk outside with a plan in mind.

Any and all input will be appreciated.

PMT

 

[airscapes]

Guess you need to draw it out on paper. When we set the band up on stage, we have papers with what goes into what on the snake. I have not steped up to computer control, I am a programmer.. go figure.. so I still do it like you used to. But after a few years, it kind of goes quick.. fence and pillers still take 14 hours to set up.

 

[Spookineer]

I too was a musician for many years so a "snake" seemed a natural choice for routing power and signals to props from the computer. The snake that runs 75 ft. to the front yard has 8 switched pairs of 110v outlets for solenoid valves, motors, and lighting. It also has 2 constant "hot" outlets for lights that remain on. And finally an audio circuit for sound. I locate the outlet end of the snake near the center of the yard and use extensions from there to the individual props is more length is required.