How to Program Your Christmas Lights to Music

Install the Showtime Software Suite on your PC following the instructions in the Install Wizard. Choose between the basic, basic plus, standard and advanced versions based on the features you want. For automatic music beat detection, purchase the basic plus version or above.

Connect your chosen converter box to your computer with a data cable. The Light-O-Rama RS485 is the most commonly used and works well for residential displays.

Connect the converter box to the light control box using a CAT-5 E command cable. Light-O-Rama has these available in 10-foot, 25-foot, 50-foot and 100-foot lengths. Connect extra light control boxes using the same type of cable if desired.

Connect the music source to your computer. If you want to use an FM transmitter, connect your speakers and the transmitter to the computer using an audio "Y" connector, which you can purchase from electronics stores like Radio Shack. Choose the station you wish to transmit over on the FM transmitter according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Set up your light display as desired on the outside of your house, leaving it unplugged. Do not puncture the light cords with staples or nails, as this will ruin the light string.

Plug the light strings into the light controller box through the pigtail outlets that extend from the bottom. Keep the outlets away from water to prevent electrical shock.

Program your light show using the Showtime Software and using the light show wizards provided. Assorted programming wizards will allow you to set the light show on a timer, set up the types of effects you want within the show and set up the beat recognition to allow the show to respond to the music.

Upload the music tracks you want the light show to synchronize with to the Showtime Software Beats Wizard. Verify that your file type is compatible with the software by checking it against the Showtime Software User Manual.