Prop Activator Quick Start

QUICK START

Prop Activator

Connect your props.
Set their timing. Start your show.

Start with one prop to test the connection, then add the rest. No app or computer needed.

Start setup Prefer video? Watch the tutorials ↗
Prop Activator controller with its startup screen and five prop outputs
Your controller triggers the props. It does not power them.

First, make the connections

  1. Connect a prop to PROP 1

    With power disconnected, run a 3.5 mm cable from the controller’s PROP 1 output to the animatronic’s Step Pad / Try Me input. Use PROP 2–5 for additional props.

    Most compatible props use a stereo cable. Some require mono. Do not connect to an audio or speaker jack. Set the prop to its Step Pad / Try Me mode if its instructions require it.

  2. Power the controller and each prop

    Power the Prop Activator with a 5V USB supply and a USB-A to USB-C cable. Each animatronic still needs its own normal power supply.

    The prop outputs are dry-contact switches, not power outputs. Do not connect household mains voltage to the controller.

  3. Use PREV, NEXT and SET

    PREV / NEXT move through the menu or change a value. SET opens an option or confirms it. Menu wording can vary slightly by firmware version.

Then, set up your show

For a first test with a typical step-pad animatronic, use these settings.

Props
Select how many outputs you use, starting at PROP 1. Choose 1 for your first test.
Sequence
Choose SEQUENTIAL to activate your props in order.
Duration
Start with PULSE 1 sec (also called 1 Sec Duration). This briefly triggers the prop so it can play its own routine.
Timer
Choose INDIVIDUAL for a separate timer per prop, or SAME TIMER if all need the same time. Time each prop’s full routine and allow enough time for it to finish before the next trigger.

The timer does not change the prop’s built-in animation. It controls the controller’s timing. If props overlap, increase the time before the next prop starts.

How should the show start?

TRIGGER OFF

Repeat continuously

The sequence repeats automatically. No motion sensor, remote or button is needed.

TRIGGER ON

Wait for a guest

A compatible sensor, step pad or remote starts the sequence. After the sequence finishes, the controller waits for the next trigger.

Connecting a motion sensor or button

Disconnect power before wiring. For the supplied wired PIR sensor, match its labeled leads to G → G, S → S, V+ → V+. Allow about 30 seconds for the PIR to warm up after power-on.

A compatible step pad connects to the controller’s StepPad Input. Follow the supplied wiring instructions for a prewired button or remote receiver. One trigger starts the programmed sequence; you do not need a separate sensor for each prop.

Keep the controller and non-weatherproof accessories protected from rain and moisture.

Finish with Save & Run

Select Save & Run and press SET. With Trigger OFF, the show loops. With Trigger ON, activate your sensor, button or remote to test it.

Once PROP 1 works, connect the remaining props and update the Props count and timers.

Need a quick fix?

The screen will not turn on

Try a known-working 5V USB power adapter and a USB-A to USB-C cable. Check both ends of the cable before changing anything else.

The controller runs, but the prop does nothing

Check the prop’s own power supply and Step Pad / Try Me setting. Confirm the cable goes to the prop’s trigger input, not an audio jack, and is fully inserted. Test the prop with its original step pad if available.

Try a different cable. Some props need mono rather than stereo. Start with PULSE 1 sec; props that need a continuously held button may require HOLD ON full. Check the prop’s instructions or contact us before changing wiring.

It keeps looping, or only waits

Trigger OFF = continuous loop. Trigger ON = wait for a trigger. Check this setting, then select Save & Run again. For a PIR sensor, allow warm-up time and move out of its detection area before testing again.

Two props talk at the same time

Increase the timer for the earlier prop so its routine finishes before the next one starts. The controller does not detect when an animatronic has finished talking or moving.

I want Random mode or to repeat a specific prop

RANDOM changes the activation order. On firmware that hides this option for one or two props, select three or more props first.

MANUAL lets you build a custom order, including repeating a prop, such as 1 → 2 → 1 → 3. It is a programmed sequence, not a requirement to press a button for every step. See the full tutorial for advanced setup and daisy-chaining.

More help, when you need it

Full video tutorials ↗ User manual currently linked on the product page (PDF) ↗

Still stuck? Contact DmitriyCreations with your prop model, controller settings and a photo of the connections.

Tutorial address: https://www.dmitriycreations.com/pages/prop-activator-controller-tutorial