I shared this on Steve's thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=620108&highlight=Can+light&page=81)from post #2368 regarding the Star ceiling I recently purchased. I got it made by forum member Star Designer. His blog is here: http://starceiling.blogspot.com/ and NEW website is here: http://www.starceiling-designer.com

I will be setting up and let you all know how it works. It is a very customizable design with infinite upgrade possibilities.

The one I ordered is for white sparkle ceiling with up to 8 spot lights possible. You can get shooting stars, color stars and more.

This all works with LED, so no heat and very little current draw. This design also saves you on the amount of fiber you need to purchase.

Check out the blog, you can now get pre made star tiles.

tradewinds -

I was considering the coolsky led light source for my star ceiling project along with the startpak48 fiber bundles.

how do star designers units look compared with effects (sparkle, dim, etc) of the coolsky unit?

I don't want any colored stars just a recreation of a real night sky.

thanks!

You requirements are just the same as mine - no colored stars, just a recreation of a real night sky.

I have not tried the coolsky. However, I was going to buy it. Steve Withney has the coolsky and one of the things he finds is that he cannot get easy access to it to make any setting changes.

I just received my kit from Star Designer. His kit is a controller card PCB which you can control from any universal remote using Sony codes. It also supports up to 8 spot lights. His design also allows you to save a lot buy requiring less EG-PCAK48 cable.

I'll share more once I get it all setup.

iSkyPanel.

iSkyPanel.

Not sure you can control those with remote and also support spot lights and add in shooting stars and future add-on modules.

Pics of my Star Ceiling in progress. It is 8' x 9-1/2'

Star Ceiling Pic1 (http://i24.tinypic.com/288bnnc.jpg)
Star Ceiling Pic2 (http://i24.tinypic.com/2u7oob5.jpg)
Star Ceiling Pic3 (http://i21.tinypic.com/2hphkzo.jpg)
Star Ceiling Pic4 (http://i20.tinypic.com/2e0i82q.jpg)

Nice work, cant wait to see it finished.

Stardesigner from
starceiling-designer.com (http://www.starceiling-designer.com)

thanks....love how the website is coming along.

Is the fibre plastic or glass?

I bought the EGPACK-48 which I believe is plastic.

I already have that also. I am talking about the .75mm fibre on the Stardesigner web site.

Sorry, I misunderstood. I think it is Mitsubishi plastic but I am sure he will verify shortly.

It is mitsubishi PMMA plastic fibre 0.75mm

Best regards
Stardesigner

how many strands are in the jacket?

What jacket do you mean?
EG-pack 48?

No, the 0.75. How many fibres are in the cable?

0.75mm fibre is unjacked, what i sell in my store.
What i have is Cable with 0.5mm fibre with 62 starnds in it, what we use for star ceilings.

Stardesigner,

any chance of making a 'eg-48 like' bundle with multiple diameter fibers (.5mm, .75,1.0) for different size stars all enclosed in one jacket?
thanks

Stardesigner,

any chance of making a 'eg-48 like' bundle with multiple diameter fibers (.5mm, .75,1.0) for different size stars all enclosed in one jacket?
thanks

Nice idea...would like to know this as well...

Pretty cool. A little better pricing than I expected for everythign in one kit. Any links to a how-to?

What kind of bend radius can these fibers take? I have a niche going to the 3rd floor where we have the Lego Star Destroyer, Millenium Falcon and a couple of others. It is about 30 inches deep so I can spare a little depth. I would love to make a panel and install it just in front of the existing wall, maybe a couple of inches between them if possible.

Stardesigner,

any chance of making a 'eg-48 like' bundle with multiple diameter fibers (.5mm, .75,1.0) for different size stars all enclosed in one jacket?
thanks


I have soon cable with 0.75 , 1, and1,5 mmm fibre inside.

Sorry wrong information we will only sell raw fibre in 0.5mm 0.75mm 1mm
And 1 jacked cable we will offer for now and that is 64 stards 0.5mm

Pretty cool. A little better pricing than I expected for everythign in one kit. Any links to a how-to?

What kind of bend radius can these fibers take? I have a niche going to the 3rd floor where we have the Lego Star Destroyer, Millenium Falcon and a couple of others. It is about 30 inches deep so I can spare a little depth. I would love to make a panel and install it just in front of the existing wall, maybe a couple of inches between them if possible.

the link on the how to is starceiling.blogspot.com:)

how much

how much

What do you mean..

StarDesigner,

How much would it cost to do an 8x8 area all things considered?
8x8 iSky Panel is $3200 shipped, just for reference.

Thanks,
ELmO BonD

StarDesigner,

How much would it cost to do an 8x8 area all things considered?
8x8 iSky Panel is $3200 shipped, just for reference.

Thanks,
ELmO BonD
Hi, i am sorry i will not discuss any prices here in the forum.
Rules.

But for more information i can send you an email.
But 1 thing is sure i have the most functions and the best price.

Hello all.:)

I am planning a 8ft by 6.5ft star ceiling in my theater.
I have scoured the internet for options and prices.
Was all set to do a ceiling like sandmans with a coolsky light unit.

Stardesigners input/support and help during the project has been invaluable.

I would urge folks to looks at his website and PM him as he is very quick to respond and help. http://www.starceiling-designer.com/

I believe his prices are very good and has the most functionality and customization that i have run across.

My plan so far includes a controller with 3 light units. 2 of which are bundled stars (similar to an eg-48pack) and 1 unit for a milky way galaxy of 0.5mm lights.

Stardesigner sent me custom specs for the project and was able to customize the controller for specific colors changes.
Im planning to install it over the next several weeks after painting so Ill keep this thread posted .

That 6x12 star ceiling kit might be just what I'm looking for.

StarDesigner,

How much would it cost to do an 8x8 area all things considered?
8x8 iSky Panel is $3200 shipped, just for reference.

Thanks,
ELmO BonD

I have been researching this and IMO this is way too expensive...

I have been researching this and IMO this is way too expensive...

Star Designer's solution is not, but iSkyPanel's is.

The retail for iSkyPanel's solutoin is like $4500 for 8x8! Gimmie a break.

Of a kit kat bar.:o:p:o:(

Star Designer's solution is not, but iSkyPanel's is.

The retail for iSkyPanel's solutoin is like $4500 for 8x8! Gimmie a break.

Of a kit kat bar.:o:p:o:(

Agreed...looking at prices now on his site (Star Designer's) and it is very competitively priced.

I always wondered what my room would be like if I had one of these. Maybe in my next house I will make sure the ceiling will be taller...

156 HDS DVD dang you are owning me up

how do you actually install this set up?

how do you actually install this set up?

What do you mean .
:confused:

I don't understand how you install this into your ceiling. I've never seen anything like this before but its looks great.

I don't understand how you install this into your ceiling. I've never seen anything like this before but its looks great.

Take a loock at my blog, starceiling.blogspot.com (http://starceiling.blogspot.com)

Tradewinds,

What's the progress on your project. I just ordered my DIY kit this morning and look forward to getting started on a my plan for a starfield skylight box.

I plan on using a single 4x8 piece of hard foam panel from Lowes my actual size will be about 4x6. Should be fun.

man...things have been moving so slow. Been spending time doing mostly painting of the HT room. Had hoped to have finished the star ceiling this past weekend but no luck. :-(

Hopefully this coming weekend will be it.

Update:

Pic 1 (http://i8.tinypic.com/4vsnp8w.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i17.tinypic.com/67petky.jpg)


Progress has been very slow. I just managed to paint and fill the cavity with isulation. I also painted the star panels and will now work on that.

Hi, since i got now a litle more to do with HT i want to make the star system a bit more advanced. I have bean asked if the Controller can be controlled via RF.

At this point , no only IR. But i want to change that.
To start with that i have got a MX 3000 remote, and i had to find out, that
the Control cant do direct RF and also some other high value remotes.

I will start t find out what it takes to interface direct with my controller via RF.
I also found out that most HT people have to use a IR to x10 translator to switch lights. And only in the room where the remote is.

So i would like some feed back on ,
if it would be nice to have direct RF link to sitches and other gadgets.
If so i would star a bigger reserch and would start a new thead for that.

Best regards
Stardesigner

Hello All.

Just wanted to give props to StarDesigner for helping me walk thru and set up my star ceiling purchase.
I received 3 light units a controller and lots of fiber to get started.
I played around with the lights last night and everything works as stated. I have on unit that is independent of the other 2 for different effects (ie galaxy/constellations etc). The custom controllability of this system is what sets it apart from others (and the support!)
StarDesigner was always quick to reply to emails and very helpful.
Now the hard part of putting it all up in my starbox over the next month.
Ill Post pics on the thread after completion.
The IR works well but RF or x10 would be great!!

Hi, since i got now a litle more to do with HT i want to make the star system a bit more advanced. I have bean asked if the Controller can be controlled via RF.

At this point , no only IR. But i want to change that.
To start with that i have got a MX 3000 remote, and i had to find out, that
the Control cant do direct RF and also some other high value remotes.

I will start t find out what it takes to interface direct with my controller via RF.
I also found out that most HT people have to use a IR to x10 translator to switch lights. And only in the room where the remote is.

So i would like some feed back on ,
if it would be nice to have direct RF link to sitches and other gadgets.
If so i would star a bigger reserch and would start a new thead for that.

Best regards
Stardesigner

RF would be great. I am still trying to figure out how to position the IR and the card in the star box. Will try some different ways and see which works best.

RF would be great. I am still trying to figure out how to position the IR and the card in the star box. Will try some different ways and see which works best.

I don't have my kit yet (it's on its way :D), but I intend to put the control card inside my projector bay which will have an IR extender cable and be accessible if ever needed. I'll run the cat5 power cable through the ceiling and out inside the star skylight. Then simply connect it to the light units. This way the control card is easily accessible in the future if ever needed.

Just wanted to report that I just received my kit from Stardesigner. Contents appear to be in perfect condition and everything was delivered as promised. I had few interactions with Stardesigner via email and they quickly responded with any questions or concerns. It has been a pleasure dealing with them and I look foward to assembling my Star skylight. I will post pics of my project as I proceed with it I will probably be getting started this weekend with it.

Also thanks go to tragewinds for heads up on this product.

Hi oman, you had mentioned an IR extender cable. Can you post a link to somewhere that sells one. The IR repeaters I am finding are a bit expensive. Thanks.

My plan is to install the buffalo IR unit
http://www.smarthome.com/8191.html

From this unit I would use one of the flasher ports to connect a standard emitter, which I will cut in half and extend with cat 5 cable.
http://www.smarthome.com/8170s.html

At the other will be the emitter in my projector bay. One flasher should hopefully work for both control unit and the projector, if not they have emitters which flood the area with a signal or they also sell two headed emitters.

Just thought I'd mention that for an IR repeater I use these.
http://www.smarthome.com/8210.html

I've had them for about 2 years now, they work great. I use them to control my cable DVR from my bedroom on the second floor. The DVR is in the family room on the first floor. You can use as is to flash all your equipment or on the repeat unit you can attach one of the emitters I mentioned above if you want to hide it, and simply attach the emitter to a particular piece of equipment. You might find it a bit cheaper on e-bay. Good luck.

What you recommend? I have access to the celing from the attic or I can make celing tiles. If I go the tile route what kind of materials should i make them out of?

What you recommend? I have access to the celing from the attic or I can make celing tiles. If I go the tile route what kind of materials should i make them out of?

Hi, i make them out of fiber board MDF,
I would any way recomend using pannels, to directly drill a ceiling and threat true from the attic is a verry hard job.

Best regards
Stardesigner

Great site and great idea!

I have a quick question. How many Star Bundles (5 feet each) will a SCD LED Light Units hold?

Do you have other bundles of fiber? Example Bundle of 50 .5 ?

I have an 184 sqft dome ceiling I am looking to do sometime early next year. I will be running the fiber in the attic and I am trying to put together some rough pricing for my budget :).

Thank you,
-Matt

Great site and great idea!

I have a quick question. How many Star Bundles (5 feet each) will a SCD LED Light Units hold?

Do you have other bundles of fiber? Example Bundle of 50 .5 ?

I have an 184 sqft dome ceiling I am looking to do sometime early next year. I will be running the fiber in the attic and I am trying to put together some rough pricing for my budget :).

Thank you,
-Matt
Hi Matt,
The SCD light units can hold 4 times our star bundle cable.
Yes you can get a premade bundles of 0.5mm fiber. Just buy 1000 feet of 0.5mm fiber, and you will get 20 feet of 50* 0.5mm fiber bundle.

Best regards
Stardesigner

Hi Matt,
The SCD light units can hold 4 times our star bundle cable.
Yes you can get a premade bundles of 0.5mm fiber. Just buy 1000 feet of 0.5mm fiber, and you will get 20 feet of 50* 0.5mm fiber bundle.

Best regards
Stardesigner


Great thank you. A few last questions then I will email you about specifics.

First you will bundle the 20 foot section? Or would we cut the 50 strands to make the bundle?

Second does the Star Bundle come in any other size?

Third: I noticed on the shooting star module it says “click here” to calculate how much fiber you need, however it is not a link. Do you have a working link for this?

I am still in the process of measuring and calculating exactly what I need.
Thank you again!
-Matt

Great thank you. A few last questions then I will email you about specifics.

First you will bundle the 20 foot section? Or would we cut the 50 strands to make the bundle?

Second does the Star Bundle come in any other size?

Third: I noticed on the shooting star module it says “click here” to calculate how much fiber you need, however it is not a link. Do you have a working link for this?

I am still in the process of measuring and calculating exactly what I need.
Thank you again!
-Matt
Hi,
i would bundle the fiber for you thats our service.
So we have 3 sizes 0.5 , 0.75, 1 mm just let me know by mail what kind of bundle you want , exam. 20x 0.5 - 10x 0.75- 15x 1mm and then i can make
the bundle for you and calculate the price for it.

jep the link dosent work, i hadent had time to make the calculator ,
But here is a good idea of how it works:

The shooting star has 16 leds and each led should drive 1-20 stars.
Lets say you want a shooting star 50 inck long, you would need about 100 ft fiber. and each led would drive 3 or 4 fibers. so every inch a fiber.

But you not limited in a staright line of stars, a comet or spiral galaxy would work wit this module.

i will make a photo tutorial on instaling the shooting star coming soon

Best regards
Stardesigner

Just an update,

I made some good progress today with my project. I made a frame for my Star skylight out of 2x3's laid flat. I was then able to secure it to my ceiling with the assistance of my kids. I bought a 4x8 styrofoam board from Lowe's which is very stiff yet very light. It is basically an insulating panel. I cut it down to 4X6 which will be the size of skylight. On the scrap pieces I tested out attaching some cloth with spray adhesive. Worked like a charm.

What I intend to do after predrilling, attaching the cloth with adhesive, and threading the fiber; is to attach 1X4 project wood to the side of the frame with crown moulding on top of that. Then the panel will fit inside of the 1x4's just below the primary frame leaving a gap for the light units. Then I intend to use corner molding with velcro attached to the inside of the 1X4's to hold the panel in place. This way if I ever need access to the light units it should be no problem.

I will attach some photos in the next couple of days but I have to create a photo account so that I don't have to do the attachments.

I bought a 4x8 styrofoam board from Lowe's which is very stiff yet very light. It is basically an insulating panel. I cut it down to 4X6 which will be the size of skylight. On the scrap pieces I tested out attaching some cloth with spray adhesive. Worked like a charm.

I wanted to try the styrofoam instead of the very heavy hardiboard but was somewhat concern of long term durability and potential sagging. I was just not sure how to support the middle for the large sections I have.

Sounds like for your size it will work out well. Good luck.

I began mine this past weekend. I'm using 3-8X4 ft. 1/8 inch hardboard (pegboard with out the holes :)). I am using firring strips glued and pneumatically stapled to the panels around the perimeter and one cross brace in the center. I used two EG-PACK48 cables per 8X4 foot panel. Because of the distance to the CoolSky LED unit my furthest panel used 30 feet of cable. I ordered an additional 45 feet today. I finished one and have two more to do. My star field will be 8 x 12 feet when finished. It was fun to do, I will definitely need help installing them to the ceiling. I'm thinking a drywall lift to get it positioned. I'll probably use dry wall screws to attach to the ceiling.

Sounds like a plan HeyNow. Hadn't seen that type of material around probably a good alternative if things don't go my way with the foam board. That's gonna be one serious starfield, sweet...

I went with the size I have because the room lighiting had already been configured with 4" recessed lighting as well as HVAC vents. 4X6 fits nicely within these obstacles.

As promised, here are some pics of what I've done so far.

Room Before
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight002.jpg

Styrofoam Board
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight006.jpg

4X6 Frame
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight015.jpg

Frame pre-drilled for toggle bolts 3 on each 6 foot side 1 in the middle of the 4 foot sides. First secured by 3" screws to strapping at the 4 corners.

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight017.jpg
Material cut to frame size
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight012.jpg

Cloth and adhesive tests
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight009.jpg

Sticks fine
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight010.jpg

attached to ceiling
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight018.jpg

primed it
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight020.jpg

Cat5 for light unit pulled through
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight021.jpg

Projector bay where control card will be placed
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight022.jpg

Cat5 pulled from projector bay to behind where the screen will be for LED lights. This will showcase speakers behind AT screen.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starskylight023.jpg

More to follow in the near future hopefully.

Here are some pics of where I am at. I puzzled together the star image and will now star the drilling and poking process. Hopefully by this weekend I will start threading the fibers.

Tradewinds,

Where did you get the star map?



Here are some pics of where I am at. I puzzled together the star image and will now star the drilling and poking process. Hopefully by this weekend I will start threading the fibers.

Tradewinds,

Where did you get the star map?

http://www.skymaps.com/downloads.html

Nice layout tradewinds.

Updates:
Pic 1 (http://i4.tinypic.com/6o2721u.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i9.tinypic.com/6kqc781.jpg)
Pic 3 (http://i7.tinypic.com/6wpzp1j.jpg)

More updates, Finally one panel (the large one at the back is Done! Just need to trim fibers). I am having some issues with the controller card but working with StarDesigner on it:

Pic 1 (http://i5.tinypic.com/6ks7onq.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i9.tinypic.com/6yz08b7.jpg)

Hi Guys
I,m new to the forum , and wanted to say how impressed with all your work, so much so that I just have to build one off the Star Panel,s!!!!
They just look stunning.

I,ve decided on an 8 x 4 panel , to start with anyway.

I think I want to use the LED Kit offered by Starceiling-Designer , the
DIY Animated Star Ceiling Kit, its says 12 x 6 coverage , but would it be to much for an 8 x 4 panel ?

Have a few other questions.

I want to keep it light, and make it like a tray so that I can include a Blue led rope light , inside the tray , so that when i mount it say an inch off the ceiling I can have a concealed lighting source as well as the fibers

Question is what would be strong and yet light enough ?
I was thinking 1 x 2,s for a frame , and the Styrafoam 8 x 4 sheet covered in black cloth .

How much depth would i need to leave to allow the led fiber units and control pcb to be mounted on the foam ?

Any suggestions greatly accepted :-)

Hi Guys
I,m new to the forum , and wanted to say how impressed with all your work, so much so that I just have to build one off the Star Panel,s!!!!
They just look stunning.

I,ve decided on an 8 x 4 panel , to start with anyway.

I think I want to use the LED Kit offered by Starceiling-Designer , the
DIY Animated Star Ceiling Kit, its says 12 x 6 coverage , but would it be to much for an 8 x 4 panel ?

Have a few other questions.

I want to keep it light, and make it like a tray so that I can include a Blue led rope light , inside the tray , so that when i mount it say an inch off the ceiling I can have a concealed lighting source as well as the fibers

Question is what would be strong and yet light enough ?
I was thinking 1 x 2,s for a frame , and the Styrafoam 8 x 4 sheet covered in black cloth .

How much depth would i need to leave to allow the led fiber units and control pcb to be mounted on the foam ?

Any suggestions greatly accepted :-)

Hi,
The kit is good to use for your ceiling, and dont worry you can have never to much stars.

About the light weight build, the way you want to go , is perfect for that.
You will need about 2 inch depth to install the light units and the controller.

StarDesigner

Hi,

I just want to let all know that from the 16-26 i will be on holiydays.
And all orders, what will be placed in that time will be produced in the 2nd week of 2008.

And here are some previews of what will come out in 2008.

USB Dongle for updating firmaware

FX Supernova is a Comet Module for colorfull Comet and Shooting star animations.
Twinkle Twinkle is a stand alone module for simple star ceilings without the need of a controller. It will be the most sold kit of 2008

And some more top secrect stuff is in development. I just say laser........

Best
StarDesigner

Hi,

I just want to let all know that from the 16-26 i will be on holiydays.
And all orders, what will be placed in that time will be produced in the 2nd week of 2008.

And here are some previews of what will come out in 2008.

USB Dongle for updating firmaware

FX Supernova is a Comet Module for colorfull Comet and Shooting star animations.
Twinkle Twinkle is a stand alone module for simple star ceilings without the need of a controller. It will be the most sold kit of 2008

And some more top secrect stuff is in development. I just say laser........

Best
StarDesigner

Awesome!

More updates, Finally one panel (the large one at the back is Done! Just need to trim fibers). I am having some issues with the controller card but working with StarDesigner on it:

Pic 1 (http://i5.tinypic.com/6ks7onq.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i9.tinypic.com/6yz08b7.jpg)

Just wanted to update all that StarDesigner has been very responsive in helping me figure out what I was doing wrong. I use a JP1 remote and I had the Vol+ and Vol- and Mute button set to VPT (Volume Punch Through), therefore the remote was not sending any signals to the card when I used those 3 buttons. There was nothing wrong with the card.

A few months ago I would never thought it was possible to get a star ceiling in my HT room without spending thousands for the size I wanted. Thank you StarDesigner for making this possible.

Really looking forward to the new stuff. Hopefully I'll be motivated to take down my panels (Heavy!!!!) and add some of the new stuff (laser, comet, my mouth is watering already) :D

you can have never to much stars.


Tell me about it, for my 12x8 star ceiling, I figure I will have around 500 stars since I cut off some long hanging fibers and re-used them:

EG48PACK - 48 fibers x 8 illuminators = 384
plus 20 re-used x 7 illuminators = 140
Total = 524

Good stuff Stardesigner,

I know I'll be needing the dongle already, looking foward to what else you have in the works.

satellitecentral,

Your on the right track, I think your better off with 2x3's like I used. The SCD units fit perfectly within the frame when placed on top of the panel that I'm using. That of course would be necessary if the panel ends up flush against the frame, I'm expecting to have about a half inch gap.

If you do a light tray you can take a similar approach to what I'm doing by attaching 1X4's to the sides (the width is actually about 3.5"). Using the 2X3's give you something better to bite into then the 1x2's. You can then do an L piece attached to the 1X4's form underneath. The difficulty is, you need to secure it properly from underneath and the sides. So you'll have screws showing, ok if your going to paint or wrap in cloth, but tougher if you wanted to stain.

Your other option would be to use 1X5's on the sides and then attach crown like I'm doing and this would allow for a nice gap from the ceiling for light tray. Simply attach crown with a finish nailer fill holes and finish any way you like.

Tell me about it, for my 12x8 star ceiling, I figure I will have around 500 stars since I cut off some long hanging fibers and re-used them:

EG48PACK - 48 fibers x 8 illuminators = 384
plus 20 re-used x 7 illuminators = 140
Total = 524

Definately what I'll be trying to do with my cut strands. :D

Oh and here is some for the good starDesigner in all of you out there,
www.stellarium.org is a great freeware for viewing stars in our gallaxy.

Best regards
StarDesigner

for those who have already done it, or are in the process of doing it, i notice it looks like a drop down...so how feasible would this set up be for those of us in rentals where cutting out sections of ceiling aren't exactly smiled upon by landlords.

for the cost of this project, it seems like something that would fun to do, specially if i could figure out a way to minimize celing damage and find the star chart for the day i was born

No big deal, i have a new fastener system what i use to mount the MDF panel.

So the only thing is you will need to put up some framing like 2x2 thats all what you need on space.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Hi Again Guys

So I,ve now started my Star Tile Project :-)

So far I have ordered the Animated Fiber Kit from Starceiling-Designer.com and decided while i,m waiting to get on with the rest off it.

Went to Lowe's and got some 8 foot sections off 1x3 Poplar and some basic molding to form the bottom off the tray.
I also picked up a sheet off 8x4 half inch Styrofoam insulation , seems pretty rigid, and most off all light and a 24 foot Blue rope light , to install in the tray when the fibers are done
I had already been to Wal-Mart and picked up some Spray Adhesive .
I couldn't find a decent sized piece off fabric , so had a brain wave , a black queen size bed sheet.

Plan is to start cutting and assembling the frame tomorrow, and seeing if I cam get the bed sheet wrapped around the sheet off insulation board, just to see if it woill work , I may need to order someething different.

What is the new way you have of haning the panel from the ceiling ?

By the way,
Which Sony codes do you need to control the card?

By the way,
Which Sony codes do you need to control the card?

For JP1, the master list of Sony codes are here:
http://www.hifi-remote.com/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=4768

Use the ones at the top of the list since they are the most common and works with the controller card.

http://www.rotofast.com/howWorks.htm

This is one of the new mounting we will use for the fiberglass tiles

http://www.monarchmetal.com/pages/panelclip.html

And this is the new mounting system for MDF use, so you will see no srews when mounted.

Best regards
Star Designer

Well, we have just finished painting our (former living room) Home Theater room...gray walls, black ceiling and front wall (for screen). Not being pleased with the flat black ceiling (looks 'blah'), I've been looking for something to spice it up...

...and THIS IS IT! Awesome work....and I've got 10' ceiling height, so no problem w/ giving up a few inches


A couple of questions:

1) My intent is to add some fiberglas absorbers on the ceiling anyway. I assume that this will work well on OC703 covered w/ black burlap?

2) I have power to the ceiling already, and could run Cat5 cable in the conduit along w/ the HDMI for the projector. Is there any problem with a long (50ft) run for the controller?

Hmmm...seems like all I can think of for the moment. Thanks for any and all input.

Well, we have just finished painting our (former living room) Home Theater room...gray walls, black ceiling and front wall (for screen). Not being pleased with the flat black ceiling (looks 'blah'), I've been looking for something to spice it up...

...and THIS IS IT! Awesome work....and I've got 10' ceiling height, so no problem w/ giving up a few inches


A couple of questions:

1) My intent is to add some fiberglas absorbers on the ceiling anyway. I assume that this will work well on OC703 covered w/ black burlap?

2) I have power to the ceiling already, and could run Cat5 cable in the conduit along w/ the HDMI for the projector. Is there any problem with a long (50ft) run for the controller?

Hmmm...seems like all I can think of for the moment. Thanks for any and all input.

Hi,
about the 1. i dont know, since i never worked with that material.
I use MDF with velvet for the last job, and it turned out to be the best
to cover with, due to light absorbent velvet. And its realy black black black black. The only bad thing is, that you have to burn holes in the velvet , what is a litle more work, but make your live a lot easyer when you put the fibers thrugh, so you dont have to strugle. But not all velvets work.

About 2. no/yes, 50 feet cable run, is may to much, since you will need to close the loop on the new controllers. So for that i recomend storing the controller in the ceiling with the light units. The max is 20 feet from the controller to 1st light unit. But you can try, it depends on how many light units you plan to use.And if you want to use shooting stars, or sparcle light units, wich then need its own cable run to the controller.

Do you want to use tiles for drop in ceiling and if in what size.
It is always better to have big tiles than small ones.

Best regards
StarDesigner

1) My intent is to add some fiberglas absorbers on the ceiling anyway. I assume that this will work well on OC703 covered w/ black burlap?


I have used JM814 (same as OC703) for my front panel (i have two, 1 front, 1 rear. The front is all that is needed for the first reflection point so it is made of fiberglass in a wood frame. The rear is masonite with wood frame but any material will do, MDF, ply etc depending on the size). Black burlap will work, but I do not like the smell of burlap so I used Dazian black Celtic.

You need to use an Acoustically Transparent (AT) material if you are going to use fiberglass absorbers.

My goal is to hit the first reflection point w/ OC703 as well. Would the GOM black material be good for a starfield? I'm looking at an area roughly 8'x10', directly overhead and in front of the projector.

Speaking of projectors: how close to the screen wall can a star ceiling be without causing a problem w/ glare on the screen? Again, as I have a 10' ceiling, the top of the screen will be over 3' below the ceiling, so I am thinking that this shouldn't be a problem.

As far as location of the controller, I have already mounted a projector on the ceiling, as well as a shelf/holder for a UPS for the projector. Adding one more in line with these shouldn't be an issue!

Small update, my progress with my starpanel has been slow.

I managed to outline a few of the constellations that I was aiming to have as part of my design about a week ago. Then last night I got around to wrapping the panel with the cloth that I purchased. I'm letting it sit a night to hopefully have it adhere well. I need to flip it over and adhere the side flaps of the fabric over the top so that it will hopefully maintain it's tension.

I picked up a package of big needles from Wal-Mart. They range in thickness, starting with the third one in the package I was able to thread one of my fiber optic strands. I tested pulling it through a piece of scrap panel, it worked well. The strand being a little stiff and looped in the needles eye pulls through the panel a little more than the needle so I will still need to glue but I was expecting to do that anyways.

Seperately I pulled the needle through a piece of scrap fabric. The fabric is more stretchy than I expected which could be a good or bad thing. When I pulled the needle through the fabric snapped right back and I could barely make out where I pulled the needle through. My concern is with the fabric attached to the panel and trying to pull the fibers through, the fabric might stretch away from the panel.

That's where it stands now. I took a pic of the wrapped panel, I'll try and post it some time soon.

I drilled holes in my reinforced hardboard (make sure you flip the panel after drilling so the entry drill holes are down, otherwise you will see where the drill pushed through), then wrapped the panels with fabric. I used an awe, pushed it through holding the fabric between my fingers (do it slowly and you will feel it) and then fed my fibers through. I did all of the fibers on the panel then taped and glued them to hold them in place until the glue set.

It took me an afternoon to do 3 8X4 foot panels 96 stars per panel. Tedious but it was a warm day outside and listening to Pink Floyd helped :)

OK Guys ,
I got my frame built 4x8 out off 1x3,s , now what is the best material to cover my panel ?
Velvet ?, and where do you get it, I looked all over locally , not a bit to be found .

OK Guys ,
I got my frame built 4x8 out off 1x3,s , now what is the best material to cover my panel ?
Velvet ?, and where do you get it, I looked all over locally , not a bit to be found .

Hi,
About the velvet, i will stock the velvet as soon i am back from on the 26.th.

The price is still not shure , but it will be a round 10-13 $ a yard.
Its 55 inch wide.
Its a special upholstery velvet, and its easy to work with.
And it dark black.

In the foto with the 3 panels, you see 2 valvet custom made and 1 cinetile
Its a big diffrence, the black is on both tiles good under dimed light but as soon you want a realy light absorbent material

Oh , and yes thats a comet in progressin the other picture,
Its made with the new FX module coming out soon. Full RGB for a lot of FX.
A Video will be posted soon to on my home page.
And a link to here.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Hi StarDesigner,
If we order the DIY kit tom when will it be shipped?

Hi StarDesigner,
If we order the DIY kit tom when will it be shipped?

I am sorry but not bevore the 3 week of Jan 2008.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Well I'm having a bit of a difficult time right now with my fabric. My fabric didn't adhere uniformly over the panel, nothing like my results in my initial tests. I think it's due to the stretchiness of the fabric unlike my original test piece. I picked this up at a fabric store that was closing shop so I paid $8.00 for 2.5 yds no biggie if I end up tossing it. What I really like about it is that it's a midnight blue color vs. black. I'm gonna try one other thing which might work. I'm gonna try to put eyelets into the edges of the fabric and basically lace it up from behind. This should hopefully give enough tension to allow the fabric to lay smooth and flat.

I already threaded and glued about half of the fibers from one of SCD units so i'm hoping to be able to work around these and make it work.

satellitecentral, have you checked Wal-Mart they sell fabric.

hello all.

has anyone on this thread tried using fidelio black fabric.
sandmans thread shows this being used often by alot of members with good results.
also havent tried anything yet but they also used some adhesive spray with staples to get everything smooth.

Yeah , I,ve tried The Evil Empire, they dont have a thing here locally in the super center

Has anyone installed the StarDesigner system? I'm interested but just don't fully understand how the components work together...

Is this correct?

120VAC -> transformer -> SCD controller -> multiple SCD light units -> fiber

How many of what do I need for a 12'x14' ceiling of say 950 stars?

Thanks

Mark

Hi Mark
I,ve ordered my kit about a week ago, I,ll be able to tell you better when it arrives.
My Frame is built ready and waiting, its 4x8 and will have 200 star,s to start with anyway

I have a quick question or two. I am planning on a 9X6 foot starfield and will probably use three 3X6 foot tile sections attached to a support framework. I was wondering if the sections where the tiles butt up against each other will be obvious when all the stars are lit. Will you be able to see a strip that is void of stars ?? Or does it blend pretty well. With the support structure that the tiles will be mounted too, I don't know how close to the edges I can get with the stars.

How has everyone else accomplished this ?

Thanks, Randy

Guys, I'm planning one of these as well (about 8' x 10'), and from most everything I'm reading, you are talking about a very high density. Most are recommending ~4 stars / ft^2 as the upper end. I have a 10' ceiling height, and so I'm figuring a bit further away = lower density for same appearance.

Oh well, time to get moving! Time to fish an HDMI cable from the basement up through a side wall, mount the projector and screen. DishHD hooked up yesterday. Got my ceiling 'tray' built to hold the battery backup (which will work well for powering the stars too). Going to have another shelf/tray up there for the controller hardware. Saturday morning awaits!

Good progress, the eyelets attached to edges of the fabric allow for me to tighten up the tension on the fabric enough with some vynil string. Once I laced it all up there was still more slack than I wanted. So I used pencils to further tighten up the pull of the vynil string I was using. Just pulled some of the strings together and spun the pencil aroud until I could pull the individual strings and hear a certain snap, I also had to pull at the fabric as I did this. I used 3 pencils total, first I did the long sides, then front to back wrapped again around the same 3 pencils.

When I lift up the panel, the cloth drops only about an eighth of an inch which is ok, nothing noticeable to the eye and when I pull the fibers through the cloth goes back to a perfect shape. Before when I was using the adhesive and the panel was hanging upside down you could see certain drops in the fabric but other areas which were flat up against the panel. With no tesion the fabric also sagged when pulling the fibers through.

I have threaded most of the fibers, I will be snipping soon and then re-use them for more stars.

what is the best length to do the final snip of the fibers without fear they would disappear into the fabric if it ever sags a bit. I wanted to go very close but I'm thinking an inch may do?

That's my fear also tradewinds,

I read on the forum somewhere that if you snip it close, that the individual light would be a little brighter because it is more direct. Where a longer snip would make a slightly dimmer star. I plan to initially leave about 1-2 inches to make sure its long enough and then trim once in final position.

If you look head on into the fiber is is very bright. So the closer to the panel the brighter the star seems to be. All of mine are clipped at about three inches prior to getting around to installing them. Since I have glued the fibers in place, I'm going to nip them very close prior to installing the panels. It would seem easier to clip them while the panel is down.

Well I know that StarDesigner is out for the holidays but I continue to refine my design. My ceiling (top of tray in my theater room) is 15'x10' and preped for the star ceiling installation.

Here is my plan at this time:
- use 1/4" hardboard panels (4'x8') with 2"x2" edge & braces.
- i will screw each panel directly to the ceiling joists then drywall tape & finish each seam.
- paint will be Behrmidnight sky - two coats over primer before drilling fiber holes + two coats after final drywall finishing
- total panels will be six (6)
- each panel will have it's own SCD and local fiber interconnected with cat-5
- one controller to drive all six SCD
- the layout will have the milkyway diagional across the ceiling crossing three (3) panels
- fiber cables for the three panels with milkyway are 120-0.5mm, 20-0.75mm, 10-1.0mm each (will a single SCD hold this load?)
- Fiber cables for the non milkyway panels are 30-0.50mm, 30-0.75mm, 10-1.0mm
- of yea, I'll tie the controller I/R into my whole system I/R network

Input... need input...

Mark

Finally finished the front panel (fiberglass). Well, almost. Need to put some wood across the frame to sandwich the fiberglass panel in-between or it will push out when I go to install (Tip from Steve).

Pic 1 (http://i15.tinypic.com/6tz0fwx.jpg)
Pic 2 (http://i10.tinypic.com/8aasfnr.jpg)

Looks good tradewinds.

Marldonnaharris,

Sounds like you have yourself a plan there. I think you'll be fine with the fiber amount you indicated. My SCD units have 100 fibers and it looks like it can easily handle another 100.
Please post pics as you proceed.

Oman321...

What size fibers are in your 100 count bundles?

And a second question... can the illuminators be addressed individually or in a couple of groups? Say if one wanted to have a group of the stars twinkle and a second group constant on?

Thanks in advance for the information.

Mark

I believe the fibers are the .5mm size they could be .75 but I don't think so. I bought DIY Kit which comes with 200 stars. With the number of bigger fibers your planning on I think you'll be fine.

I connected both of my units pre-install to test out and see what they did. They both repeated what the other did. As far as I know you can't have them do different things unless you have a seperate control card. In communicating with Stardesigner and as he mentioned above there is a dongle available which includes software (or will be available) which allows you to go in and tweak the settings or programs, not sure if this might allow for such a thing.

Star Designer's solution is not, but iSkyPanel's is.

The retail for iSkyPanel's solutoin is like $4500 for 8x8! Gimmie a break.

Of a kit kat bar.:o:p:o:(


As the exclusive North American distributor of iSky products -- I can tell you with authority and unequivocally that the list retail price for an 8 x 8 ft ceiling using surface mount 2" thick panels is not $4500 as was stated earlier in this thread! Its much lower than that. If you'd like the real pricing, please feel free to contact me. Just trying to set the record straight.

Good listening and viewing!

Oman321...

What size fibers are in your 100 count bundles?

And a second question... can the illuminators be addressed individually or in a couple of groups? Say if one wanted to have a group of the stars twinkle and a second group constant on?

Thanks in advance for the information.

Mark

The DIY kits animated come in 0.75mm POF and the basic white kits are 0.5mm

I have a quick question or two. I am planning on a 9X6 foot starfield and will probably use three 3X6 foot tile sections attached to a support framework. I was wondering if the sections where the tiles butt up against each other will be obvious when all the stars are lit. Will you be able to see a strip that is void of stars ?? Or does it blend pretty well. With the support structure that the tiles will be mounted too, I don't know how close to the edges I can get with the stars.

How has everyone else accomplished this ?

Thanks, Randy

Just drill some holes inthe support structure too, and put some fibers in.
Just make the hole and a litle chenel so the fiber can be flush with the frame.
I will post some pictures later to show.


what is the best length to do the final snip of the fibers without fear they would disappear into the fabric if it ever sags a bit. I wanted to go very close but I'm thinking an inch may do?

i clip the fibers flush with the panels i make, and the most important thing is to use a hot needel to burn in holes from the backside so the fibers can go in easy, and cant hide anymore behinde the material. It also helps a 100% with the litle bumps what you will get when threading the fibers with out the burnd in holes. If no holes are burned just leave the fibers about 1/4 inch out and clip them.


Happy Hollydays

StarDesigner

I believe the fibers are the .5mm size they could be .75 but I don't think so. I bought DIY Kit which comes with 200 stars. With the number of bigger fibers your planning on I think you'll be fine.

I connected both of my units pre-install to test out and see what they did. They both repeated what the other did. As far as I know you can't have them do different things unless you have a seperate control card. In communicating with Stardesigner and as he mentioned above there is a dongle available which includes software (or will be available) which allows you to go in and tweak the settings or programs, not sure if this might allow for such a thing.

The controller has already a second indipendent chanel, so you can hock up 2 main units RGBW and for example 1 or 2 twinkle units on the second chanel.
You also could use RGBW units on the second chanel to set 2 difrent colors.
The only thing what is still not in the firmware is to have the 2nd chanel do a atomatic color change. But like mentiond there will be a USB dongle and software coming out in 2008, so you can pick your firmware according to what you want to do. That makes it more flexible than ever.

That's good to hear StarDesigner,

By channel I'm guessing you mean where you connect the cat5 wire to on the control card. I thought the first one was for the SCD units, the second for shooting stars and the last 2 for programming. So is the shooting star channel also and scd unit connection.

I need to run some more CAT 5 to my control card :( , that's ok the added benifits is worth it :D .

That's good to hear StarDesigner,

By channel I'm guessing you mean where you connect the cat5 wire to on the control card. I thought the first one was for the SCD units, the second for shooting stars and the last 2 for programming. So is the shooting star channel also and scd unit connection.

I need to run some more CAT 5 to my control card :( , that's ok the added benifits is worth it :D .

The 4 cat5 conectors on the card are 4 chanels.
the first is for the standart lights, thw 2nd is for the shooting stars and the new comet. The 3rd is for Twincle and 2nd color and the 4th is used for big ceilings,
where more than 5 light units are on the 1st port to close the loop. But i will use them also for special custom jobs.

So the dongle and the firmware are required to activate your 2nd chanel.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Does the picture from a projector and screen reflect off the surface?

Does the picture from a projector and screen reflect off the surface?

Depends on the surface, i can say that Velvet is the most light absorbent surface avalible.

Merry Chrismas

StarDesigner

Continued progress,

I have run all the strands and snip them to about 2-3" inches. I wanted to see what it would look like illuminated as it stood right now. I hooked everything up and I was blown away. It looked fantastic, the Mrs. was also impressed and loved how it looked. With fibers still being longer than the finished product, some were more direct than others. Some seemed very bright while others more dim, this was a perfect effect.

I still want to run a few more fibers to some bare spots, but I don't plan to re-use all of my snipped pieces because it would look less realistic. Very exciting cant wait to get it mounted.

Great job Oman....I know the feeling. Got a bit ill the last few days, but hoping to put up the last panel and snip in the next two days.

I wanted to do a star ceiling but didn't want to mount a bunch of panels on my ceiling.

How hard is it to poke holes in your ceiling drywall and run a bunch of cables thru? Doesn't sound to hard but nobody does it this way. How come?

If you have access from above you can do it this way no problem. I've seen it done that way a couple of times in new room construction and attic access.

I got the last panel (fiberglass front panel up this weekend) done this past weekend. I must say, this came out extremely well and better than I thought.

IMG (http://i19.tinypic.com/6u5cfur.jpg)

Although the flash (which even makes the black fabric look gray) of the camera shows the seam where the two panels meet, it is not noticeable at all with the light dim, and I think once I vacuum the dusk and give the area a wipe, it should not be noticeable with the lights fully turned up. There is a lot of dust from the handling at that part and also the fibers came in a casing that had white talc powder which your can see around the where the fibers and black cloth meet.

Well we made significant progress on finishing my basement... more specifically my HT room over the holidays! I am in a holding pattern awaiting StarDesigner to return so that I can order & install my star ceiling.

Mark

Well we made significant progress on finishing my basement... more specifically my HT room over the holidays! I am in a holding pattern awaiting StarDesigner to return so that I can order & install my star ceiling.

Mark

Hi, i am back, and work right now , on the outstanding orders.
I hope that on the end of this week i get all oustanding parts.

And i wisch all here a good 2008....

Best regards
Stardesigner

Hello StarDesigner...

I have sent a PM with the components and fiber I have identified. I would like you to check my list to ensure I have everything needed. Also I will need pricing of the fiber bundles.

I am ready to order!

Mark

Ok all... I have taken the plunge and have ordered my star seling from Star Designer. It's fairly large and will require six (6) SCD units! I'll keep you posyed as to my progress.

Mark

Mark,

Wow! That is a HUGE ceiling - what are the dimensions or density of stars you are planning? Are you using different size fibers? Keep us in the loop!

Greg

Hi Guys
Finally got My Kit,
One issue , maybe you can help , there is no marking on the Cat 5 Cables I recieved to tell me which one to use from the controller to the first scd unit, is there another way to tell wich Cat 5 is which ?

I,ve emailed Stardesigner , but havent hear anything back yet , lol
I know I,m Impatient

I had the same issue, it no longer matters. Stardesigner informed me that the online manual hadn't been updated yet, but that he's worked it so that both cat5 cable are just regular cat5 cables.

Hi, thats right there is no more power cable.
Here is the new instructions on how to install and use.

I am sorry for the delay in my messeages, but i had to reinstall my computer
after some hardware changes, and that didnt went so well.

My email sending was not working right.

I hope this new PDF will help..

Best regards
Stardesigner

Hi Guys
Finally got My Kit,
One issue , maybe you can help , there is no marking on the Cat 5 Cables I recieved to tell me which one to use from the controller to the first scd unit, is there another way to tell wich Cat 5 is which ?

I,ve emailed Stardesigner , but havent hear anything back yet , lol
I know I,m Impatient

Great StarDesigner,

When do you think you'll have the dongle available. No rush, just curious.

WilliamsburgHT...

Yes a fairly large ceiling... If I had only known how tired I am now and how badly I want the theater completed during the planning stage, the ceiling would be much smaller! Oh well, I'm committed now.

I am using 0.5mm, 0.75mm, and 1.0mm fibers. The 0.5mm will be used for the milky-way while the two larger sizes will be for the star field. See post #103 in this thread for details of all my components.

Looks like I will not recieve until around Feb 6th. Once I have any tangable results I will post some pictures. Until then I will prep and paint the panels.

Mark

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12494245#post12494245

StarDesigner...

The new instructions show a different configuration for connecting the SCD units from the original. I had been planning to run all 6 of my SCD units in a single string. From the new instructions It looks like I will need to run 4 as a loop between port-1 and port-4 and the ramaining two SCD's chined from port-3. Is this correct? Can all 6 be in a single loop?

Thanks

Mark

thats right, you will need 4 light (RGBW) in a loop on port 1 and 4

and the 2 (Twinkle) on port 3, its the same when some body wants to control 2 (RGBW) differently from each other.



StarDesigner...

The new instructions show a different configuration for connecting the SCD units from the original. I had been planning to run all 6 of my SCD units in a single string. From the new instructions It looks like I will need to run 4 as a loop between port-1 and port-4 and the ramaining two SCD's chined from port-3. Is this correct? Can all 6 be in a single loop?

Thanks

Mark

StarDesigner...

I ordered 6 SCD (twinkle). Will they wire as described above for SCDRG?

Mark

Hi, no yours will all connect in a loop on port 1 and 4.
Since you have all white, you will have no need for 2 separate channels.
But you could use them. If you want.

Best regards
Stardesigner

StarDesigner...

I ordered 6 SCD (twinkle). Will they wire as described above for SCDRG?

Mark

StarDesigner...

OK. For clarity the hookup will be:

Controller Port1 - SCD(tw)1 - SCD (tw)2 - SCD(tw)3 - SCD(tw)4 - SCD(tw)5 - SCD(tw)6 - Controller Port4

Is this correct?

Once installed I will have NO access to the SCD units or Cat5 wiring.

Mark

Hi , thats one way. so you would have all light units synchronize.
Or you can hook 4 light units in the loop on port 1 and 4 and
2 units on port 3 for separate control.

It depend on what you want the ceiling to be.

I would recommend using them in a 4-2 setup.

Like shown in the pdf.

That gives you more creativity for the control of the light units.

Best regards stardesigner



StarDesigner...

OK. For clarity the hookup will be:

Controller Port1 - SCD(tw)1 - SCD (tw)2 - SCD(tw)3 - SCD(tw)4 - SCD(tw)5 - SCD(tw)6 - Controller Port4

Is this correct?

Once installed I will have NO access to the SCD units or Cat5 wiring.

Mark

Ive been talking with stardesigner through email this past weekend and would recommend him to anyone. Hes been a pleasure to deal with and always prompt with returning emails. I will be placing my order today or tomorrow. Rooms not done yet but wanted to get the supplies anyways.

Thanks Youngone.

Ok finally i am back to normal productions . I had a hard time to catch up the work. Thats why the USB dongle and Software release will be in March.

So for all waiting for the dongle it will be soon.

I had my first bad light unit what was dead on arrival. But i will exchange it of course .

Just for the Info, i solder all parts by hand, and i try my best to do a good job.
But in 1% of orders it can happen that there is a bad solder joint what shows up after testing it.

So before you install your kit connect it all and do a test run please.
Specially when you cant access the light units any more after installation.

And since some people have asked me why i have such long delivery time.
It because i do all by my self.(Soldering, Programing, eMail, packing, and so on.) So all that takes time, and i had to find out that working in a rush is never good.

So i want to thank you all my patient customers and for the support and help in developing this products.

Best regards
StarDesigner.

Hi,

Ok for all how want to see a star ceiling made with SCD premade panels.

Here is a Demo House in Canada BC where we installed 36 X 2'x4' panels.

So the system is working with 1 controller 36 SCD RGBW Light Units and 3 Shooting Star Modules.

Here is the link to the 360' Picture gallery of the amazing house.
And by the way, its for sale, so if you have 3.299.000$ CAN

http://www.digitalproperties.ca/2008011502/index.php?id=6 (http://www.digitalproperties.ca/2008011502/index.php?id=6)

StarDesigner,
Nice job on that ceiling. Very nice house too.

3.299.000$ CAN, that's all? I'll get that in my next life. Hopefully by then the USA will fix its broken economy :-)

Hi all,

Ok to clear some things up, you need a Universal Remote Control.
It dosent need to be a sony, it can be no name from Wallmart for 9$ or a
URC MX3000 for 700$ it dosent matter. What is important, thats its a real universal remote.

Remotes what came with a TV you bought , even if its a sony tv , it will not work in 95% of the time. Or when u try to use your cable box or satellite remote what u have they don't work.

If u dont already own a real universal remote, and want to make sure u get one that realy works, get the Phillips PH301S or the PH601S.

I also have a file to set up URC remotes like the MX models.

U will need to set the remote to Sony TV code. To do that on cheap remotes,
Just take the code list provided with the remote, look for sony TV codes, and try the first one u find in the list, Most times there are about 4 to 5 codes.
When the 1st one dosent work try the next one. It also might be that the first one works except one button, so try the other codes.
:confused:
On more High End remotes, it can be that u have to setup the remote via Computer.

So i hope that gives u more info on what kind of remote u need and how to set it up.


Best regards
StarDesigner

I like that.

I will also add the stardesigner has been a pleasure to deal with. As soon as the dongle is available I'm on the order bandwagon. :)

Wow the star panels look great in that cinema, That install must have been pricey for the whole ceiling, I dont like the room much but the stars look cool. I have been thinking of doing 2 2x6 panels in my theater since I started designing it 4 years ago. It has been a back burner edition just because of the expense and time involved in doing it so it became a low priority, but, your system and the RGB LED system looks clean and simple. So this might get pushed up to the front burner now. Hopefully this spring. Great looking product.

I have 18 panels from Star Designer and he is a real pleasure to work with--always available by email or phone to review the design and answer any questions.

I do find the remote issues a bit confusing, and there are many of us with home theater remote controls that can be edited without the use of an existing remote control.

Would it be possible to either PM me or post, or include with a purchase, the raw HEX codes of the various remotes? I, for one, could then cut and paste those commands into my Control4 set up and not have to both with another physical remote or try to decipher which button on this remote is equivalent to which button on that remote.

BTW, I went with a custom panel--mdf 2 x 4 covered in black velvet, and secured to the ceiling with z clips--the seems are completely invisible with the lights off and next to invisible even with the room lights on. The best part is that the ceiling is a total black hole while movies are playing.
Thanks!
Mark

Hi ,
here is a pdf with all codes in Decimal, Hex, Oct, Bin format,

The frequency is 36.7 to send the code on.

I hope that helps.



Best regards
StarDesigner.

Thanks! What would be even better is if you could show the hex code as it relates to the function, rather than as it relates to the physical button on the remote. For example, "hex 0001 = white", instead of "hex 0001 = 1"
Mark

Hello all, I have been down with the flu but am now alive.

I recieved my order from StarDesigner but my controller was DOA. I contacted StarDesigner and he promptly returned my e-mail and is sending a replacement. I hope to be back in business this weekend as the star ceiling is the last thing prior to hanging the projector!!!!!

Is anyone using the V2 controller? Fully understand the menu system?

Mark

I plan to integrate the remote functions into a universal remote and asked StarDesigner to post the raw hex codes, which he kindly did. But, I agree, the menu is very hard to figure out. It is straightforward enough to select colors via 0-9 but everything else (twinkling, dimming, color change) was too hard for me to figure out...
Mark L

I plan to integrate the remote functions into a universal remote and asked StarDesigner to post the raw hex codes, which he kindly did. But, I agree, the menu is very hard to figure out. It is straightforward enough to select colors via 0-9 but everything else (twinkling, dimming, color change) was too hard for me to figure out...
Mark L

I will make a second pdf, with the codes listed to functions,

and with some examples of how to use them.

The good thing is , in the future, and with the dongle, i will post different firmwares so you can chose witch one works best for you.

And the menu, is so hard to understand, since you dont get a feedback , like a onscreen menu. or lcd.

But this will be also no problem with the dongle in the future.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Any news when the dongles will be arriving?

I happened to have the phillips universal remote and tried to do the ir codes from sony but couldn't get it to do anything. Dont know if its the codes im using or if the ir on the board isnt working.

Also do you have any suggestions for leds. I plan to place 8 small leds in the star ceiling that can provide some light over the middle of the room when needed, but when they are off they will disappear into the ceiling. I was looking at something like this and painting it black to blend in.

http://www.berkeleypoint.com/products/light_fixtures/100.html

Just send me a email, with the remote model u using,
And what color the cable has from the ir sensor.
office@starceiling-designer.com

Best regards
StarDesigner

Just to show the folks following this thread this is my complete starpanel. My camera was stolen so I had to snap off some pics with my camera phone so the resolution is lossy but you get the idea.

Completed 4X6 panel
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starpanel1.jpg
Close up
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/starpanel2.jpg
Angled shot showing off fibers
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff231/oman321/Starpanel3.jpg

I'm probably a couple of weeks off from mounting it, just to busy with other stuff. As you can tell (hopefully) this is Very dark blue fabric. I was able to find matching paint at Lowes (Blue Coal) for the rest of my ceiling. With lights dimmed or off it looks just like black. With lights on some folks still thought it was black:D

FYI there were about twelve overhead lights on with the above pics.

This thread has been a great resource and a good read! In my own research I was thinking of using flocking material to cover my panels with. I was wondering if any one else had tried this approach and what the results were?

This thread has been a great resource and a good read! In my own research I was thinking of using flocking material to cover my panels with. I was wondering if any one else had tried this approach and what the results were?

Flocking,???
is that the material what goes onto white t-shirts for example.
If yes, its the same like velveteen Velvet. Go to a wallmart.. and check it out.

Best regards
StarDesigner.

Yea im looking for a good source of material to cover the mdf. I ordered a sample of this stuff http://www.syfabrics.com/mojocart/dispproduct.cfm?prod_id=89 but it only comes in width of 44-45 inches which is too narrow for 4ft mdf. any ideas? i want something a big more black than the GOM black. The velvet is perfect but i need much wider.

Yea im looking for a good source of material to cover the mdf. I ordered a sample of this stuff http://www.syfabrics.com/mojocart/dispproduct.cfm?prod_id=89 but it only comes in width of 44-45 inches which is too narrow for 4ft mdf. any ideas? i want something a big more black than the GOM black. The velvet is perfect but i need much wider.

Hi, i order my velvet there too, but i u should get the Velevteen stretch.
It is black like a black hole. And easy to work with. Here is the link.
http://www.syfabrics.com/mojocart/dispproduct.cfm?prod_id=1545

It is 56-60 inch wide, so good to cover 4ft wide.

Bets regards
Stardesigner

Star Designer thanks for creating a product that is reasonably priced! I was going to piece together my own for something cheaper but yours takes out all the guess work. I will be ordering stuff from you very soon! Hard to believe some of these star ceiling guys charge thousands for an LED and some fiber optic...

Thanks for the recommendation on fabric. That stuff looks a bit better for my use. Also do you think i will have a problem with the seams showing. I now have a plan for 4 panels of 4x10 mdf in the plan and wonder if you will see the seams. This also means im going to be ordering more fiber and light units :)

Thanks for the recommendation on fabric. That stuff looks a bit better for my use. Also do you think i will have a problem with the seams showing. I now have a plan for 4 panels of 4x10 mdf in the plan and wonder if you will see the seams. This also means im going to be ordering more fiber and light units :)

The seams will be invisible when light is dimmed.And i made custom tiles with the velvet, and they look great. Thats the best choice u can get.

Best regards
StarDesigner:D

Other folks have used the fidelio velvet found here (http://www.bymichelle.com/fidelio.html). How does that compare with the Velveteen? I see that it is only 48" wide, which is one concern.

-Ryan

Other folks have used the fidelio velvet found here (http://www.bymichelle.com/fidelio.html). How does that compare with the Velveteen? I see that it is only 48" wide, which is one concern.

-Ryan

I guess velveteen is better of use for building a ceiling, since ,
it does not ripple at the cuts, and u can burn in nice tiny holes with a hot needle
so u don't have to try to poke the fibers trough. And of course the price,
22$ compared to 6$ makes a big difference.
And the velveteen is wider, almost 60 inch.

Best regards
StarDesigner

may I ask why you have to burn the velvet with a hot needle? I used an awe with a thinner fabric, but it did work.

Hi, i order my velvet there too, but i u should get the Velevteen stretch.
It is black like a black hole. And easy to work with. Here is the link.
http://www.syfabrics.com/mojocart/dispproduct.cfm?prod_id=1545

It is 56-60 inch wide, so good to cover 4ft wide.

Bets regards
Stardesigner

Thanks Star, I think I will use this Velveteen around my shadow box. I was getting worried that the light reflected off the screen would reflect off of black paint or the Dazian Celtic which I have. I'll have to use the Dazian on the screen wall to cover the speaker areas since it is AT material.

Thanks Star, I think I will use this Velveteen around my shadow box. I was getting worried that the light reflected off the screen would reflect off of black paint or the Dazian Celtic which I have. I'll have to use the Dazian on the screen wall to cover the speaker areas since it is AT material.

Believe me, it will reflect off the Celtic cloth. The black CC is fine on the screen wall, but if you look at my pics you can see the results of using CC. One thing I have noticed is that the CC has a grain to it. Look at my center panel, if I look at it from the other wall the two end panels turn lighter and the center panel goes darker. Just the opposite of my pics. I'm thinking of pulling it down and turning it around.

GO VELVET! The Light sucker-upper!

Well, I already used the black CC on my star ceiling panels. Because of the size, I needed the 120" width. I guess I should have done 3 panels and used velvet. Damn, the wife may kill me for this. I am hoping the box (see earlier posts in this thread) I have around will help to protect any light reflecting from the screen, however not too hopeful. I wonder if there is a velvet spray (here's to wishful thinking) that I can just spray over the CC.

I thought about some speaker cloth stretched over it. I don't know what screen you have, but my Dalite High Power throws everything back to my ceiling mounted projector.

good luck.

Yep, that would be the nature of a retro-reflective screen. I plan on using a Black Widow screen with a very bright PJ, so hopefully a lot of the stray reflected light get absorbed by the velveteen on the shadow box.

Hello StarDesigner...

I recieved my replacement controller today. It works beautifully, my 6 SCD's are across the room twinkling as I write this (wired up on the floor).

Thank you for your many e-mails and quick response in replacing my DOA unit. I will send out the old unit back to you next week.

I do still have questions about the operation and menu system.
When I power up the controller all the SCD's come on. If I use volume-down the units will dim to twinkle. If I use the power button everything turns OFF. This is where I am stuck... I can not make the controller turn ON from the remote. Am I missing something simple?

Mark

Hi Mark glad to hear that the replacement works now.
U have one of the new firmwares, what are special for white twinkle only.

So just play with the buttons 1 to 7.
1 should turn them on solid white
2 will turn on the light unit in Twinkle mode, on port 1
3 will turn on the light unit in Twinkle mode, on port 3 so you have 2 separated ports.
4 and 5 are for the twinkle speed on port 1
6 and 7 are for the twinkle speed on port 3
8 is for the sub menu shooting star.
Vol up and down are for dimming the stars on port 1
Chan up and down are for dimming the stars on port3

But i will soon release a PDF file where i will write all down incl Remote hex codes and so on..

I hope this info get u running now.

Best regards
Stardesigner

may I ask why you have to burn the velvet with a hot needle? I used an awe with a thinner fabric, but it did work.

Ok here are the steps how to cover MDF panels with velveteen .

1. get ure MDF wood, lay it flat and mark the stars, use multicolors for separating the stars, like constellation, milky way, twinkle, shooting star, and so on. The best is to make little circles so u can later drill with out losing the overview where which fibers goes.

2. Drill all holes, my favorite part :) and then sand both sides of the MDF so the bumps from drilling disappear. And a good cleaning from dust after sanding.

3. Now u need 3M super 77 spray glue, is recommended does not eat the fiber, and so good for fixing the fibers also. now glue the velvet to the MDF board see my pdf file on my homepage for detailed instructions on how to glue
and cut the velvet with out making a mess.

4. Now when u have the Star panel ready for fiber surgery,
Try to poke the fibers in, ups u will notice a slight force stopping ure fiber.
Now u would take a needle and make a hole but, no good idea since u make little bumps.And it still would be a pain to get the fibers trough , stretch velvet. So just get the torch and heat up the needle until it glows, but use gloves after 40 holes they can get freaking hot. Now u have little need holes , where the fiber goes trough easy , and u don't have to worry, when u clip the fibers that they will disappear when the would move back a millimeter.

But believe me it saves a lot of time to burn in holes, and no bumps around the fibers after installing.


Best regards
StarDesigner

Hey stardesigner,

i know you recommend using mdf, but in my situation it would almost be easier to use some rigid insulation board with some wood strips glued to the back to support multiple boards together. ive got a 8.5x16.5 ceiling to do and its going to be quite difficult to support 4 mdf boards onto the ceiling. im looking at 40 lbs a board with mdf as apposed to maybe 5 lbs with the insulation board and supports. would my idea be a good solution?

Youngone, i cant say to much to this, since i haven't tried it with foam board.
Just get ure self a sample get some velvet, and try it on sample piece.
And see how it works to get the holes in with out making bumps.

I guess u have to drill the foam first, and then sand it a little and then glue the velvet on and try to put the fiber through. I am not sure if you can use the hot needle technique.

But i still recommend using MDF . i just would go 8 x 16 so u have 4 panels.
And i can make u a 3D drawing on how to mount it with 2x2 spruce.

Best regards
StarDesigner

I am planning a StarDesigner ceiling as well :). I placed my order yesterday, and began preparations for my starceiling as well. I have the location picked and framed out, all I am waiting for is the fiber so I can start drilling holes :)

Some Pictures, there are a ton more at the link in my sig.

I had a dropdown ceiling in my basement, and was lucky enough to have a 4'x8' section, in the center of the room, that had nothing above it. I took down all the ceiling tiles, re-enforced the support system, and cut out the section in the middle:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2288/2318074925_dd4f89175d_o.jpg

The section with some of the tiles back in:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2318883728_263c095d9c_o.jpg

I then took some 1"x6" pieces of wood and walled off the drop ceiling. The actual useable area is 45" x 95". I will be painting the whole section a midnight sky color by BEHR, and mounting the ceiling right up there. I hope it looks as cool as I picture it in my head :)
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2170/2318883656_a1652e40bf_o.jpg

Hello StarDesigner and all...

I spent the weekend making up my panels (6ea 4x8' 1/4" birch plywood sheets with 1x2 frames & stiffners). I am using the Behr "Midnight Sky" paint for the covering. Painted 2 coats of primer + 5 coats of the midnight sky color. The panels look great! Kind of a blue/purple/black... very realistic color.

My question is on finishing from this point??? I can drill from the front side so there is no "bump" or paint blimish with my 1.5mm bit. How far do you let the fibers extend beyond the front face? Can I pull them through 6" or so then touch up paint and cut them off +/- flush with the surface?

Also, how long does it take for the glue to set that was included with the fibers?

Please respond quickly with Ideas as I am drilling TONIGHT and I do not want to screw up the panels it took all weekend to build / paint.

Thanks in advance

Mark

Hello StarDesigner and all...

I spent the weekend making up my panels (6ea 4x8' 1/4" birch plywood sheets with 1x2 frames & stiffners). I am using the Behr "Midnight Sky" paint for the covering. Painted 2 coats of primer + 5 coats of the midnight sky color. The panels look great! Kind of a blue/purple/black... very realistic color.

My question is on finishing from this point??? I can drill from the front side so there is no "bump" or paint blimish with my 1.5mm bit. How far do you let the fibers extend beyond the front face? Can I pull them through 6" or so then touch up paint and cut them off +/- flush with the surface?

Also, how long does it take for the glue to set that was included with the fibers?

Please respond quickly with Ideas as I am drilling TONIGHT and I do not want to screw up the panels it took all weekend to build / paint.

Thanks in advance

Mark

Here is what I did...

My first panel, I drilled from back side....it did dimple the front. Next two panels I drilled from the front... problem solved.

Anchor your cable (unless you are using StarDesigners Thingy) and pull the fibers from the front until taught. Some will be extending longer than the others. Be careful not to step on them when you move the panels around...

Depends on what kind of glue you use...I used that glue from the hobby area in Walmart....sorta like Elmers. Overnight should work.

Touch up paint before you cut...I cut mine about 1/4 long. Some may be longer.

Thanks for the reply HayNow^...

How did you touch up paint? Just dab a little paint at the base of each fiber or roll the whole panel? I wonder if the fibers will stick down to the surface if I were ro re-roll the whole surface???

What diameter fiber did you use?

I was wondering about the glue that StarDesigner included with the fiber.

I used multiply sized fiber. I'll let StarDesigner reply since you are using his product. I do know that people have pulled the fiber and rolled paint over it, but I would think you would cut the fiber about an inch long or shorter, paint and then make your final fiber cut for a clean end. The fiber is pretty stiff with it is sticking out and cut short. The shorter it is the stiffer it becomes.

Hello StarDesigner and all...

I spent the weekend making up my panels (6ea 4x8' 1/4" birch plywood sheets with 1x2 frames & stiffners). I am using the Behr "Midnight Sky" paint for the covering. Painted 2 coats of primer + 5 coats of the midnight sky color. The panels look great! Kind of a blue/purple/black... very realistic color.

My question is on finishing from this point??? I can drill from the front side so there is no "bump" or paint blimish with my 1.5mm bit. How far do you let the fibers extend beyond the front face? Can I pull them through 6" or so then touch up paint and cut them off +/- flush with the surface?

Also, how long does it take for the glue to set that was included with the fibers?

Please respond quickly with Ideas as I am drilling TONIGHT and I do not want to screw up the panels it took all weekend to build / paint.

Thanks in advance

Mark


Hi, the glue what i gave u sets in 3 minutes, so just mix small amount of it, and the use a toothpick to put on every fiber a drop or 2.

when ure done, just leave the fibers stick out 2 inch or longer, and then u can use the paint to rework where its needed. And then just finally cut your fibers flush. But i don't recommend rolling paint over them.

Best regards
Stardesigner

Hi, this is a very cool cinema with a nice starceiling in.
I hope Mark enjoys the starceiling. He used 18 SCD tiles 2x4ft.
And he also integrated a nice and cool looking rim light, where he can match the colors of the stars. Nice job Mark.
http://gallery.mac.com/msleb/100006/IMG_1627/web.jpg

here is the link to the gallery (http://gallery.mac.com/msleb#100006&view=grid&bgcolor=black&sel=27)

Best regards
StarDesigner

All...

I have completed the star ceiling install today... except for the crown molding.

LOOKS GREAT !!! Thanks StarDesigner.

6 SCD's and 690 stars (12'x14'). My design is a milky way w/ balance of sky.

I'll post pictures of the steps & outcome in the coming days.

Mark

Nice to hear that,
and we are all looking forward for the photos.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Awesome job StarDesigner and mark...

Does anyone know if the lights emit off a lot of light, so much so that it affects the contrast ratio of the projected image?

I'm waiting for the firmware upgrade. The current remote supposedly allows dimming, but I can't figure out how to do it. Yes, some of the star light color options do throw off light which is enough to cast a shadow. I find the red option to be very pleasant and it throws off little light. THe white looks very cool, and "classic" but I'd like to be able to dim it by 50% (which will be easy soon)
Mark

I'm waiting for the firmware upgrade. The current remote supposedly allows dimming, but I can't figure out how to do it. Yes, some of the star light color options do throw off light which is enough to cast a shadow. I find the red option to be very pleasant and it throws off little light. THe white looks very cool, and "classic" but I'd like to be able to dim it by 50% (which will be easy soon)
Mark

To dim them to 50% just press the center button on the remote i send u it has white M for mute on. And then press 5 that should do the trick.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Hello All...

As promised, the star ceiling pictures. Not many construction shots as I was going quickly. As you can see from the pictures I have the milkyway and a few constolations. It will take a couple of posts to load the pictures.

Thanks StarDesigner.

Mark

2nd set... The third set is worth waiting for....

Oh Yea...

Very nice marldonnaharris,

Loving the blue, cant wait to get mine up.

Nice work, very nice.... especially the crown molding around the starceiling.

Best regards
StarDesigner

To dim them to 50% just press the center button on the remote i send u it has white M for mute on. And then press 5 that should do the trick.

Best regards
StarDesigner

unfortunately that didn't seem to work, and with no visual feedback it is hard to know if the buttons are working. I guess I'll just wait for the firmware upgrade. Is it still on target for later this month?
Mark

unfortunately that didn't seem to work, and with no visual feedback it is hard to know if the buttons are working. I guess I'll just wait for the firmware upgrade. Is it still on target for later this month?
Mark

Yes the update will come end of the month,
please try one more thing with the remote, since the Mute and the OK button are on the same button, try this.

Press Menu In/Out button, and then M button and then 5.

The Menu In/Out button switches between OK And Mute.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Superior job, marldonnaharis.

For those of you using this kit with a Harmony remote, what television model did you put in the device setup for it to work? I've been unable to find a model that actually allows me to turn it on.

Has the firmware update been released yet? Unfortunately I am still having a hard time controlling the various submenu options

Has the firmware update been released yet? Unfortunately I am still having a hard time controlling the various submenu options

Hi,
the status is right now, i waiting for the dongles to come in this week there was a delay in the china manufacture for the PCBs.

I am also in the middle of the firmware update,

So every body how plans on updating, please send me a email,
with name , hardware (light units how they are hocked up), what u would like to see in the update, or what u would like to have changed.

It will be not 1 firmware update i will have to split it in different firmwares for different setups.

On my software list is already :
simplify the remote menu
A movie mode (automated sequence for 1 hour 2 hour and 3 hour mode)
direct link via PC as a remote control (for those of u how wants to use ure media pc as remote for sequences of the ceiling)
more presets, what are easy to use

But please remember, it may take time for me to make all the changes,
i will post the new firmwares here on the forum, and on the download section of my web page as soon they are tested and bug free.

And on the hardware there will be also changes and new parts:

On its way is a RGB controller for strip lightning. each led strip is 1 ft and has 6 RGB leds on it with a wide angle beam. The controller can be used as stand alone, or it can connect to the main controller of the ceiling. One RGB controller can handle up to 40 ft RGB Led Strips. u also can interconnect more than one RGB controller in a chain for up to 10 RGB controller and 400ft.


So u see i am quite busy, and would like to have a 48 hous day,so i can get done faster : ) but u know...

Ok best regards
StarDesigner.

StarDesigner...

Would it be possible to use other remote codes than Sony? My projector is Sony and sometimes while making changes to the projector my star ceiling turns on. I would like to change to some obscure code that will not be used by any of my other equipment.

Can I do this via the dongle?

Mark

I started construction on my starceiling this past week, I'm hoping to make a lot more progress on it this weekend :).

Here are a few teaser pictures, with a bunch more in my Home Theater Build thread in my sig.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3205/2385880271_15dc1443ae_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3207/2385881063_23213d0774_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2377/2385881227_31ff6d086c_o.jpg

Naevity, I'm following your build thread as I am currently putting together a 4x8 ft. panel. I'm trying to decide between painting the panel or using velveteen fabric. The panel is going on a ceiling that slants from 9ft to 14.5 ft. so it should look interesting.

I'll let you know how the painting goes when I'm complete :)

in my head the process should be pretty easy, but I've been proven wrong many times before :)

Well, this morning I spent another 90 minutes running fiber, I think I have about 500 total stars, of which 400 of them are .5mm strands. I'm just over 50% done with the .5mm strands.

I turned on the light unit for the first time today, and was amazed. StarDesigner does some great work. I turned on the twinkle mode, and it was awesome. I laid down under my workbench to check it out and stayed there for a few minutes. I can't wait to get this up.

I did have to take a break to rest my back, leaning over the ceiling running fiber is killer :).

Anyways, I took a few pictures, but left my camera in the basement. I'm hoping to do some work on it tonight and tomorrow morning, so I'll get some more pictures up soon.

StarDesigner...

Would it be possible to use other remote codes than Sony? My projector is Sony and sometimes while making changes to the projector my star ceiling turns on. I would like to change to some obscure code that will not be used by any of my other equipment.

Can I do this via the dongle?

Mark

I am thinking of writing a firmware where u can use the dongle and a notebook or pc to learn ir codes, from different remotes. But this will take some time.But it is on my todo list.

The guys in china mailed me , and let me know that the pcbs for the dongle are send out. So i hope they are here middle next week and i will have then to solder and test them.

naevity, thats a good idea u had to use ure projector to map out the sky. And its nice to hear that u like the the kit. What kind of remote u use?
And yes its hard bending over all the time for fiber pocking.



Best regards

StarDesigner

Well, this morning I spent another 90 minutes running fiber, I think I have about 500 total stars, of which 400 of them are .5mm strands. I'm just over 50% done with the .5mm strands.

I turned on the light unit for the first time today, and was amazed. StarDesigner does some great work. I turned on the twinkle mode, and it was awesome. I laid down under my workbench to check it out and stayed there for a few minutes. I can't wait to get this up.

I did have to take a break to rest my back, leaning over the ceiling running fiber is killer :).

Anyways, I took a few pictures, but left my camera in the basement. I'm hoping to do some work on it tonight and tomorrow morning, so I'll get some more pictures up soon.

500 stars ? I thought your panel was 46x91 ? Did you decide to make more panels ?

Nope, no new panels, all 490 something stars are in the one panel. Most of the .5 mm strands are just part of the background to fill it in. If you look above at my projected star panel you can see my layout with all of them

Nope, no new panels, all 490 something stars are in the one panel. Most of the .5 mm strands are just part of the background to fill it in. If you look above at my projected star panel you can see my layout with all of them

A little busier than the standard 4 to 5 stars per sf. I look forward to seeing the finished product.

Yes much busier. I thought about doing less, but I got a star diagram that I liked that had all the constellations I wanted, as well as part of the milky way.

I finished running all the .5mm strands this morning, almost 1000ft worth. I also ran 100 ft of .75 mm fiber. I'm about 50ft into my 1mm strands, only 50 left :)

Its coming along great.

Yes much busier. I thought about doing less, but I got a star diagram that I liked that had all the constellations I wanted, as well as part of the milky way.

I finished running all the .5mm strands this morning, almost 1000ft worth. I also ran 100 ft of .75 mm fiber. I'm about 50ft into my 1mm strands, only 50 left :)

Its coming along great.

Sounds like you're working hard! Looking forward to pics of the finished panel.

I finished running the fiber strands today. All 492 of them. My back is aching now :).

Anyways, here is the completed panel from the back. Visit the thread in my sig to see a few more.

Still to do: Trim the fiber where it hooks into the Light Source, Mount the Light sources so they are secure, and get the panel mounted in the ceiling so I can paint it.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/2393596427_9af6d0630b_o.jpg

As a side note, the sky chart I used had mars, so I ran a strand especially for that, and colored in the tip with a red sharpie marker :) It's just noticeable to see the different color. Hopefully once it is mounted I'll be able to take some good shots.

Does anyone know where you can get the free poster software online to print out large prints of starfields for transferring to a ceiling panel? StarDesigner mentioned finding something free online but I have had no luck.

These projects look amazing!

WilliamsburgHT - I had done a search for poster printing software I think. I ended up just using my projector because it was easier for me, but I did end up printing a copy up on paper just to see what it would look like. I don't remember the name of the program though.

I finished running the fiber, mounting the hardware, and got the ceiling into place last night. The ceiling is only on temporary mounts, but I just had to get it setup to see what it would look like :)

Some sample pictures, many more in the thread in my signature.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2397835120_fb15761f78_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2256/2397835182_842fafedce_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3166/2397835412_dd3452ab45_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3156/2397835606_b8edb68997_o.jpg

naevity, hoping to see pics with the fibers trimmed. It's looking good.

Not sure if it is the camera flash, but the whole stem of the fibers appears to be glowing instead of just the end. What type of fibers did you use?

Not sure if it is the camera flash, but the whole stem of the fibers appears to be glowing instead of just the end. What type of fibers did you use?

Hi,
he used our SCD fibers, 0.5mm and 0.75mm and some 1mm.
The glow, results from the shutter time of the camera what captures that light what gets lost in the fiber. Thats why we try to keep our fiber runs under 10 ft.
So the light lost is not so big, and u need not so much light power.


WilliamsburgHT:
have u googled for poster software, and found non?
here is a link http://www.postersw.com/download.html
Or just google "free poster printing software"


Best regards
StarDesigner

StarDesigner,

Did you get my PM from this weekend?

Greg

StarDesigner,

Did you get my PM from this weekend?

Greg

yes i did, and i just read it.
The shooting star module is good for a shooting star 48-64 inch long.
U could make it longer, but it would not look good. No each module is for one shooting star.

For the constellation stars u would need twinkle white light units. on port 3
and for the blue milky way RGBW unit on port 1-4 in a loop.

The new firmware will allow u to set the rgbw light units with one button to any preset color, and with another button to a color cycle mode.

Just send me a email with some more info on how big u plan to build,
on what type of material u have in mind to use.

Best regards
StarDesigner

Not sure if it is the camera flash, but the whole stem of the fibers appears to be glowing instead of just the end. What type of fibers did you use?

Exactly what Star Designer said, because the room was so dark, my camera's shutter was open for much longer than normal. In person, only the tips glow. I'm hoping to get the painting and trimming done saturday morning.

StarDesigner,

Thanks for the info - I sent you an email to the address on your website.

Greg

Naevity, did ya get yer gosh darn fiber optic ceiling installed ? Yes, I have been watching too many westerns lately...

This stuff is amazing. I've always felt the one thing missing from my theater is a starfield when you look up. The price was much too expensive, but now there's hope!

Naevity, did ya get yer gosh darn fiber optic ceiling installed ? Yes, I have been watching too many westerns lately...

not yet :) The weather was too nice and I spent the day putting some hood stripes and a light bar on my mini cooper. All I was able to do was properlly mount the ceiling.

All that I have to do is paint and trim.

Hopefully this week :)

not yet :) The weather was too nice and I spent the day putting some hood stripes and a light bar on my mini cooper. All I was able to do was properlly mount the ceiling.

All that I have to do is paint and trim.

Hopefully this week :)

Quit fiddlin' with yer vehicle and get er done...

I have this posted in my thread as well, but I'm planning on getting some painting of my star ceiling done this weekend, and I had a slight change of plans. Originally I was just going to paint the entire thing a dark blue, but I've been looking at some other options.

I found this image on google. (http://www.infinitsky.com/images/4ftproduction.jpg)

I would love to create an effect just like the one in the image above. Basically, I would love to have the sky ceiling look like dusk when the rope light is on, reddish clouds, reddish light, and as it dims, the coulds disappear and all you see are the stars.

I am assuming that all this requires is some fancy paint work, but no special paint or lighting, just proper colors. Would that be correct?

Has anyone done anything like this before and have any tips?

I believe that company advertises here on AVS. Their name is Numinus. They are way too expensive. I'm going to build my ceiling with stardesigners product hopefully in a month or two.

What i have used on a ceiling shortly uV light in the rim of the ceiling, and then the aerosol UV spray paint u get them in different colors, and the best thing is u don't see it with out uv light, so when u use more uv light strips and can control them individually you can let some clouds come in and some go out, and also spiral nebula's are good to make to.

Best starDesigner

I have this posted in my thread as well, but I'm planning on getting some painting of my star ceiling done this weekend, and I had a slight change of plans. Originally I was just going to paint the entire thing a dark blue, but I've been looking at some other options.

I found this image on google. (http://www.infinitsky.com/images/4ftproduction.jpg)

I would love to create an effect just like the one in the image above. Basically, I would love to have the sky ceiling look like dusk when the rope light is on, reddish clouds, reddish light, and as it dims, the coulds disappear and all you see are the stars.

I am assuming that all this requires is some fancy paint work, but no special paint or lighting, just proper colors. Would that be correct?

Has anyone done anything like this before and have any tips?

I was going to use black velvet for my panel, until I considered how it would look during the day. I'm having an artist friend paint a sky and clouds mural on my panel.

I'm planing on using black velvet in a dedicated theater room. What is wrong with the look of velvet durring the day?

I'm planing on using black velvet in a dedicated theater room. What is wrong with the look of velvet durring the day?

Nothing. My projector and screen are in my living room, so I don't want to have a black rectangle on the ceiling. A sky and clouds mural, framed to look like a skylight will work better for me.

I had a long description typed up and my browser crashed. :\

the short version:

I was away most of the weekend, but I did manage to get some work done tonight. I clipped all the strands down to about .5", which was a huge pain in the shoulder :). I then painted the sides of the ceiling and did a few test runs on the ceiling itself. It looks like with a proper brush, it won't be too difficult, just time consuming.

Here's a few pics. The first one is after the strands were clipped. you can still see some full strands because of the camera lens being open for so long, but for the most part it's a much closer representation of how it really looks. The 2nd photo is the paint testing, the paint is a midnight sky color from BEHR

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2349/2429769252_496406a892_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3215/2429769282_281373e55c_o.jpg

No pictures until tomorrow morning, but I got the first two full coats of paint on this morning. It's looking great.

I think I am going back with the moulding idea. I also think I am going to do some clouds. The plan is to make them kinda textured. Not super textured, just enough to blend some of the imperfections. Then I an do the moulding w/ dimmable rope lighting.

I ended up buying a cheap electric paint gun from home depot this afternoon. I wish I had it this morning :) I had been using a super rough serface roller, which had 1" of material on it, but I was afraid of breaking the strands. Out of 496 stars, I only broke 1 of them, thankfully it was one of the 'filler' stars.

It's looking really awesome so far. I trimmed the painted ends off of a few of the stars to get a better idea what it will look like, and loved it.

The plan for tomorrow is to get the rest of the paint up there, maybe paint some clouds, but I am going to get the moulding up and painted.

naevity that is awesome! I can't wait to see some more pics. I have talked to Star Designer about my options - looks like what I want to do is a bit $$ so am looking to see if I can afford it or not. I really want to, the effect is amazing!!

Greg

The star ceiling is finished!!! (well, for now).

After much deliberation, and a few failed attempts, I'm scrapping the ropelight/moulding tray. My test runs were not very successful, there really isn't enough room for the light to spread out, and it really does highlight every single imperfection up there.

So, after putting on another coat of paint, I trimmed all of the strands flush with the ceiling, and lit it up. It looks amazing.

We had some people over today to break it in, they were very impressed.

All I have to do now is configure my Harmony remote to work with the controller unit. I did some quick setup, and I can get to the dimming and twinkle menus, I have no idea how I do it.

As always, a few pictures below, the rest in my Construction thread, linked in my signature:


Same view without the camera flash, but room lights on:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3218/2447644028_ebf0a0212a_o.jpg


Same shot, just with the lens open a little longer, the stars look like they are really twinkling
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/2447644114_832bbb7266_o.jpg

Same photo, lit by the flash, star ceiling on:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2261/2447644214_8496fba7e1_o.jpg

Room lights on, no flash, ceiling on:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3260/2447644242_681b9ed173_o.jpg

Last one, this is a close up of Orion's belt, with Mars:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3295/2447677870_a68f738e8e_o.jpg

coolness! looks great man!

Very nice...

Awesome job. I wasn't sure how the high star density would look, but it really turned out great.

The good new is I had 9' ceilings in my basement when my house was built. The bad news is they ran all my ductwork through my future home theater room. Luckily I was able to clear out a 4' x 8' section in the middle of my theater room to house my projector. I wanted to do something special with the ceiling in this area over my projector shelf when I stumbled across this forum. I purchased the basic 100 cable kit from the star ceiling designer - it was perfect for covering my 4' x 8' section of the ceiling.

Here are some pictures of my completed fiber optic star ceiling. I'm sorry I don't have more pictures of the construction phase, but my wife had the digital camera in her purse the day I was installing the stars into the panel ;)

http://webpages.charter.net/jbrenson/HomeTheater/FiberOpticFrame.jpg
Picture 1 - Initial framing for 4'x8' panel

http://webpages.charter.net/jbrenson/HomeTheater/FiberOpticCeiling.jpg
Picture 2 - Panel painted and attached to the ceiling

http://webpages.charter.net/jbrenson/HomeTheater/FiberOpticWithCrownMoulding.jpg
Picture 3 - Finished panel with room lights on

http://webpages.charter.net/jbrenson/HomeTheater/FiberOpticWithProjector.jpg
Picture 4 - Finished panel with room lights off and projector running

If you want to see more information on how I created the star ceiling and how I framed around the ductwork, I tried to document everything at www.hometheaterstepbystep.com.

-Jason

Hey Jason,

That's pretty cool, what is your frame made out of besides the wodden frame?

Any word from Stardesigner on the status of the new and improved versions? Also what may be in the planning stages?

Naevity-

My frame was made out of 2x2 boards. I used some small nailing plates (I don't know if that's their technical term or not) where the cross members attached to the sides of the frame. I did attach the cross beams with screws, but I wanted the nailing plates there for some added stability.

If I had more room up there I would have used some boards that were a little larger for the framing, but I wanted the ceiling as high as possible so it wouldn't interfere with my projector. Once I attached a 1/4" hardboard to the frame it was pretty sturdy. I spaced the boards in the frame so they lined up perfectly with the floor joists above so I was able to firmly attach it to the ceiling. I just hope I never have to access the led modules up there :)

Nice job on your star ceiling! I really like the visible constellations on there. If I could do one thing differently on mine I would have purchased some different sized fiber optic cables - I think the different sizes make it look more realistic. I did find that trimming my cables shorter made them look smaller so I was kind of able to vary the sizes, but I really like the way yours turned out.

-Jason

Very nice job musicmaniac,

I like the cloudy effect you added to the panel.

A tip if you have all the same sized fibers. If you push in the some of the fibers further into the LED module this will make those strands appear slightly dimmer. I found this out when I was adding some recycled snipped fibers.

This is a great site with tons of helpful information. I just finished working on a very large star ceiling project in my basement theater room. For anyone looking to get started take a look at StarCeiling123 first - STARCEILING123.COM. They have been extremely helpful in providing great information as well as all the supplies necessary for the project. Just wanted to share my good experience.

jesse...self-promoting your site is not allowed on this forum.

This is a great site with tons of helpful information. I just finished working on a very large star ceiling project in my basement theater room. For anyone looking to get started take a look at StarCeiling123 first - STARCEILING123.COM. They have been extremely helpful in providing great information as well as all the supplies necessary for the project. Just wanted to share my good experience.

Do you have no shame?

Do you have no shame?

+1, he posted the same fake post on the "Fiber Optic Star Ceiling" thread.

Has anyone installed a star ceiling using drywall as the base? I like the small star ceiling in my home theater room so much that I am thinking about installing another one in the trey ceiling in my master bedroom. I have access from above through the attic but am not sure how the drywall would hold up to all the holes I want to drill in it (I'm not worried about it collapsing, just crumbling and cracking and leaving little pits where the fiber optics are pulled through).

I was just curious if anyone here has created a non theater room star ceiling in an existing room with a drywall ceiling, and if so - how did it work out.

-Jason

Hi all,
here is a update on what is going on behinde the scene.

The USB Dongles are ready for ordering and shipment.

Also there are a new firmware for those people how have a basic kit.(Only colored light units on port 1and 4 in a loop). With easy navigation for the functions.

The next release will be for those how have colored and white light units, with a easy interface for the remote.

Since the biggest problem was the sub menus, and the complicated structure,
that have been removed.

What else is new,

1. I sell now the kits with a remote and the usb dongle in one package.
2. I will have in 2-3 weeks the ultimate kit, for those how want to make the monster star ceiling. Its a allinone unit, with 15 light ports (3 RGB 3Twinkle white and 9 for aether a shooting star or as constellation presentation.)
Since its a allinone unit the usb dongle is integrated, and the best thing is ,
it comes in a nice enclosure with a external IR sensor what can be placed where it is needed. The Kit will come with a remote, but u still can use ure remote as well.The kit will be available in different configurations, due to different fiber layouts. Also i offer now starcharts with those kits.
The unit it self is under 2 inch so it mounting place can be in the ceiling.
3. I also have a prototype here in work for a rim light control with grb mixing colors including the led light strips what are 1 foot long with 5 wide angle RGB leds.

4.Off topic, i work on a screen masking controller, on special request of one of our member here in the forum. It is a dongle what can drive up to 4 stepper motors and also has 4 inputs for home switches. It works via IR remote or usb. So u can set and program different screen sizesfor the msking system. It will work with any cheap cnc Controller/Driver from ebay.More info on request.

For now,
Best regards
StarDesigner

Thanks for the hard work on the firmware updates!

Thanks for the hard work on the firmware updates!

So i guess ure ceiling and remote setup are ok now.
And is the new menu better ?

Best regards
Stardesigner ;)

This thread is great! I am excited about installing a starfield either in my sons room ceiling or my basement HT or both.

Here is my question or two: My basement has low ceilings and is finished. If i want the lowest profile starfield ceiling to be installed over the sheetrock, what do you suggest and what would the overall thickness of the added starfield be? That is how skinny can i go?

Second, there are 6 hihats in the ceiling already that i rarely use. Can the starfield cover the ceiling and then i lower (or recess) the hihats through the ceiling? Or maybe remove the hithats and use that elec power for the starfield?

Lastly are people happy using the rigid insulation? i would prefer that for the lightness and easier working since i am not that woodworking savvy.

the flattest u can go is 2 inch gap when the light units sit under the panel.
If the light units are not under the panel and mounted in a enclosure on the side, u can use 0.1 inch spache for just the fiber.

About the foam ?? Never used it, since u have to frame it, and thats more work than using a mdf panel, what u can get precut.

Best regards Star Designer