Plans change. Your whole show does not have to start over. Maybe the install weekend got shorter, a project needs more assembly, or the remaining budget has changed. Start with what you have, decide what you can finish, and make that version work well.
We would begin with a tested opening-night plan. A cleaner layout, better timing, or a more deliberate use of existing props can give the show a different feel while you save the bigger construction project for later.
Write down what changed
Be specific: “We have one fewer install day,” “This prop is not here yet,” or “The roof section needs different mounting.” List what is paid for, what is physically on hand, and what still needs assembly.
Check current order information before planning around a replacement. Last season's delivery experience or an old blog post is not a shipping commitment for a new order. If timing makes or breaks the plan, ask us about the exact item and destination.
Sort the display into three decisions
| Decision | What belongs here | Next move |
|---|---|---|
| Keep | Working props that fit the space and schedule. | Inspect and test them; document their connections. |
| Change | A manageable move or a confirmed compatible replacement. | Recheck mounting, cables, ports, and power. |
| Postpone | A project with unresolved parts, construction, or support needs. | Save the notes and remove it from the opening-night plan. |
Give later additions their own assembly and test time. That makes it easier to decide when an optional project is taking time away from a working show.
Count the whole change, including cables
A smaller prop may need a different mount or model file. Moving a controller can shorten one run and lengthen another. List what you can reuse, what needs a verified adapter, and what needs replacing.
For example, moving a group of EVO stakes closer to the audience changes more than their position in the preview. Measure the new cable route, keep the physical order clear, and check the controller assignment. If you need an extension, match the exact connector and electrical requirements.
Our project worksheet helps catch missing parts. Confirm voltage, pixel protocol, pinout, and output capacity before combining spares.
Try the new arrangement in software first
Move repeated props into a more deliberate line, give a detailed feature a better viewing position, or leave more space around your centerpiece. Preview a complete song before relocating hardware.
In xLights, update positions and check every group containing the affected models. Group membership and rendering change how an effect travels through the display; the official Model Groups guide explains the relationship.
Try changing color choices or giving an existing prop a different musical role. You may be able to achieve the change you want with the equipment already installed.
Keep the new plan inside the hardware's limits
An unused port does not prove you have unused power capacity. Check the supply, output, cable, connector, and protection for the additional load. Follow the mounting and support requirements for every changed prop.
For Sasquatch Legend MegaTrees, the standard traditional-pixel arrangement is 32 strands at 2-inch spacing in a full 360-degree layout. We do not recommend exceeding that conventional-pixel arrangement. More strands require an appropriate Kraken configuration and a specific check with Mattos before changing the design. Extra topper holes alone do not approve a heavier build.
Update the files that actually run the show
Record moved outputs, changed counts, and replacement models. Review the addressing and upload supported controller changes. When the channel map changes, render the affected sequences again and transfer the new playback files.
xLights provides sequence checks and batch rendering tools. Our FPP transfer checklist covers the handoff to that player.
Rehearse the version you are putting outside
Walk the cables, test each changed prop, and run the actual playlist. Look for missing features still receiving effects, reversed sweeps, incorrect colors, and props facing away from the audience.
Save the working configuration and label the connections. Keep postponed projects with their missing-parts list for next season. If the change involves compatibility or a MegaTree configuration, send us the revised plan before ordering. We can help you check the details while the change is still easy to make.
Keep learning
- Pixel Power Planning: Voltage Drop, Injection and Brightness
- xConnect vs M-Connect: Match Pixel Cables and Adapters
- Light Show Preflight Checklist: Test, Label and Back Up
Browse all Mattos education and support guides.
Reviewed October 29, 2026. Use the instructions for your exact hardware and installed software version.
