Glad to hear it was something simple. You can leave that switch in the on position if you'd like. It does not likely need to be off at startup.
Regarding DACs, there are several DACs sold and several software packages. The industry standard for professionals has been Pangolin's Quickshow and their FB3 or FB4 if you are doing live work and Pangolin's Beyond if you are doing graphics / pre-choreographed laser shows. Their software and DACs are not inexpensive however. There are several alternative software/DAC packages that are available that are robust and cheaper. LaserShow Xpress (LSX) for example is quite competent for pre-choreographed shows and comes with a frame editor. The software and a compatible DAC is available for as little as $200. Higher versions of the software (I recommend starting with the Basic level) and better DACs such as Helios or the Etherdream are available on the same site for a reasonable price as well.
Happy Lasing!
-David
Regarding DACs, there are several DACs sold and several software packages. The industry standard for professionals has been Pangolin's Quickshow and their FB3 or FB4 if you are doing live work and Pangolin's Beyond if you are doing graphics / pre-choreographed laser shows. Their software and DACs are not inexpensive however. There are several alternative software/DAC packages that are available that are robust and cheaper. LaserShow Xpress (LSX) for example is quite competent for pre-choreographed shows and comes with a frame editor. The software and a compatible DAC is available for as little as $200. Higher versions of the software (I recommend starting with the Basic level) and better DACs such as Helios or the Etherdream are available on the same site for a reasonable price as well.
Happy Lasing!
-David