The problem really is one of usability and programmability using existing lighting consoles.
Lighting consoles enable the realtime selection and programming of many different parameters in live shows, and Catalyst is really designed at the moment to be used in conjunction with one.

The more channels - the harder it is for users to program the show, and to figure out the interactions between parameters.

I have to design something that is a compromise between usability and flexibilty.

Once a certain complexity is exceeded, the lighting console isnt a very good choice for running shows.
But if its kept simple enough - then its a very useful device.

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Most current DMX consoles dont allow you to change the patch or the channels or the arrangement of channels live because the cues storage inside the lighting console relies upon a known relationship.