C-I Control Centers were the pioneer electronic lighting control instruments in the Theatre. They were originally combined with the C-I thyratron tube dimmers to make up the C-I "System." They are now available in a great many variations, each compatible with any Century Lighting electronic dimmer type. The term C-I board refers to the front end of the remote control system and consists of two units; the control console and the preset panel.

The C-I Control Console has operational characteristics similar to all remote control centers as described on page 84. The C-I manual handles, one for each dimmer or control circuit, are unique in design and have excellent tactile qualities. Illuminated drum indicators for each manual are separate and calibrated in forty steps of intensity. The position of the dimmer control handles themselves gives a quick visual "line-up" of the individual circuit intensities during the setting up process.

During the subsequent performance or "play back," the manuals are not used except in an emergency to re-adjust individual circuits. Rather, the master fader control is used to proportionately cross fade all lighting from one scene to the next with positive, smooth precision at any desired speed. Other master controls, non-dim circuit remote switches, etc. are incorporated in the console as desired.