HARMAN Professional Solutions has introduced Companion Mobile, an app-based version of Martin’s popular Companion fixture management, firmware upload, and stand-alone programming tool. Designed for use with Martin NFC (Near Field Communication)-enabled fixtures, including the MAC Viper XIP, the app supports seamless fixture configuration and management, with compatibility for additional fixtures planned in the near future. Companion Mobile is available for free on iOS and Android platforms.

Building on the capabilities of the Companion Desktop application, Companion Mobile simplifies fixture configuration by utilising NFC to establish wireless communication. A key advantage of this NFC interface is that fixtures can be configured without needing to power them on. Whether the fixtures are still inside their flightcases or on-site, users can configure them with a simple tap of a smartphone against the fixture’s display, streamlining setup processes and saving valuable time.

The app seamlessly synchronises with Martin’s fixture library over the Internet, eliminating the need for manual downloads or updates. Additionally, Companion Mobile synchronises automatically with Martin-made GDTF files hosted on the GDTF share, providing users with comprehensive access to fixture details, including DMX Modes, DMX Channel Listings, and Gobo Loadouts. For increased flexibility, these GDTF files can be exported directly from the app, ensuring compatibility with any GDTF-supported software solutions.

Wouter Verlinden, Product Manager for Martin Professional Creative LED, Lighting & Control, highlighted the app’s significance for lighting professionals, stating, “Thanks to the valued suggestions and feedback we receive from our incredible LD community, adding this capability has been a high priority as it truly is a game-changer. NFC was the perfect protocol to utilise because we could give just about anyone with a phone or mobile device the capability to access and manage their fixtures with just a tap, without even needing to power them on.”

The app’s intuitive design introduces several key functionalities tailored for modern lighting workflows. The Fixture Configure feature enables users to input fixture settings with a single tap, allowing multiple fixtures to be quickly configured in succession. The Fixture Check function simplifies diagnostics when fixtures return to the warehouse, offering error and warning notifications through simple taps. Data can also be collected from multiple fixtures and exported into standard CSV files, providing users with a clear overview of fixture status without needing to power them up.

Adding further utility, the Fixture Action function allows users to trigger basic actions, such as running SelfTest sequences or resetting fixtures to factory defaults. These tasks can be executed efficiently by tapping fixtures, even when they remain inside their flightcases, ensuring readiness for future deployments. Meanwhile, the GDTF View & Export feature provides access to Martin’s full library of GDTF files, offering insights into fixture specifications such as DMX Modes, Channel Functions, and Gobo Images. Users can export these files effortlessly for integration with GDTF-compatible software platforms.

With Companion Mobile, Martin has combined modern technology and user-centric design to deliver a powerful tool for lighting professionals. By enabling fixture configuration, diagnostics, and management without the need for power, this innovative app enhances workflow efficiency while offering a new level of convenience for the industry.