

What the developer says
The ProDesklock plugin for GrandMA3 has received positive feedback for its user-friendly interface, with one user stating, “The User Interface is straightforward and easy to use.” Another praised the overview it provides, saying, “I like to have a good overview over all screens and settings.” Users appreciate the basic functions, noting that they work well and efficiently. However, there are suggestions for improvements, such as making the UI resizeable and adding a search function to the Appearance Pool pop-up. Some users also expressed a desire for better information regarding screen resolution and the ability to assign appearances without the pop-up. While the plugin performs smoothly and is stable, minor bugs were reported, including issues with screen locking. Overall, the ProDesklock plugin is recommended for its effectiveness in managing screen appearances and enhancing workflow, despite some areas needing enhancement.


Our testing procedure for the plugin spanned over a three-week period, during which experienced programmers utilized and evaluated its functionality. The evaluation was conducted based on predefined, specific parameters, serving as guidelines to ensure a precise and objective analysis of the plugin’s performance. This assessment was considered independent, as it was conducted free from external influences or biases.
Summarized evaluation
The ProDesklock plugin for GrandMA3 has received mixed reviews from users, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement. Users appreciate the straightforward and intuitive user interface, which allows for easy navigation and management of screen appearances. The ability to lock displays and customize lock screens is seen as a significant advantage, particularly for live setups.
However, several users have pointed out the need for enhancements, such as a search function in the Appearance Pool pop-up and better information regarding screen resolutions. Additionally, the password security system has been criticized for storing passwords in plain text, raising concerns about security.
While the plugin generally performs well without lag or crashes, users have reported minor bugs, such as issues with screen locking. Overall, the ProDesklock plugin is recommended for its functionality and ease of use, but users hope for future updates to address its limitations.
Installation Process and Instructions


The installation of the Grandma3 plugin was notably smooth and straightforward, with users reporting an easy process akin to previous plugins. Clear documentation facilitated the installation on both Windows and Mac, and no significant issues were encountered. Overall, the experience was efficient, with successful imports on the first attempt.
User Manual


The plugin user manual was generally helpful, providing clear instructions for installation and basic functions. However, users faced challenges with image resolutions, particularly regarding GrandMA 3 screens, indicating a need for more detailed information. While the manual was straightforward, additional visuals and real-world examples could enhance usability.
User-Friendly Interface


The plugin’s user interface is praised for its simplicity and intuitiveness, making navigation easy. Users appreciate the clean layout and clear labeling of features. However, suggestions for improvement include making the UI resizable, adding screen resolution information, implementing a search function in the Appearance Pool, and enhancing password security.
Functionality


The ProDesklock plugin for GrandMA3 on PC 2.2.1.1 functions effectively, providing smooth locking of the interface and clear visual feedback. Users appreciate its basic features but suggest enhancements like UI-based appearance editing, advanced scaling options, and a more secure password system. Overall, it improves workflow but could benefit from additional functionalities.
Performance


The ProDesklock plugin generally performs well, meeting user expectations for speed and efficiency. While most users report smooth operation without major issues, some minor bugs were noted, such as screen locking glitches. Overall, it is deemed reliable for live setups, though improvements could enhance its functionality.
Pro and Cons


In evaluating the pros and cons of the discussed plugin, several key points emerge.
Pros: Users appreciate its ease of use, intuitive interface, and stable performance. The plugin is well-documented and offers good value, particularly for locking displays and managing screen appearances.
Cons: However, there are notable drawbacks, including security concerns with passwords stored in plain text, limited customization options, and the absence of video or GIF support. Additionally, the functionality of the desk lock feature could be improved for better integration.
Conclusion and Personal Opinion


In a recent discussion regarding the ProDesklock plugin for the GrandMA3 system, opinions varied significantly among users. Some praised the plugin for its humor and customization capabilities, highlighting it as a fun addition for Touring LDs. One user noted its effectiveness in providing individual lock screens and simple password protection, making it a solid recommendation for those seeking such features.
However, not all feedback was positive. Several users expressed skepticism about the plugin’s security benefits, suggesting it might compromise showfile safety. Concerns were raised about its necessity, with some feeling it does not significantly enhance security or workflow.
Despite these criticisms, many acknowledged the plugin’s ease of installation and user-friendly interface, which can enhance the console’s appearance and functionality. Overall, while the ProDesklock plugin has its advocates, potential users should weigh its benefits against the concerns raised by others.
Our PlugIn Pioneers
I am into lighting industry since 8 years , working more in the design then as technician .
in love with Grand MA 3 since the early beginning and happy about seing this beauty of a software growing from update to update
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
installation worked fine and straight forward , as Plugin`s installation in GMA 3 environment should work
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
The plugin’s documentation was generally helpful in getting started with the installation process and provided a basic understanding of its functions. The troubleshooting guide was also useful, as it covered some common issues and offered practical solutions.
However, I encountered challenges when dealing with image resolutions and transferring them to different screens. I spent considerable time searching through the GrandMA manuals for information on the resolutions of the GrandMA 3 screens, but couldn’t find the details I needed. In the end, I had to rely on ChatGPT to get the correct answers. Including this information in the plugin manual would significantly enhance its usability and save users from unnecessary frustration.
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
The User Interface is straight forward and easy to use .
i like to have a good overview over all screens and settings.
The UI could be resizeable or at least 1.5 x size
I miss Informations about screen resolution , which could be stated next to screen name
the Apperance Pool Pop up could have a search function
An option to assign the appearance without the Pop up would be great as well .
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
Tested on GrandMA3on PC 2.2.1.1 only
the basic Functions are working well like expected .
but i sould love to see some improvements and add ons :
–>Appearance editing via Plugin`s UI
– image Mode , Rotation and Mirroring
–>Assignment over more then 1 screen as big screen
– like Internal 1-3 , Internal 1-3 + Letterbox 8-10 , Internat 1+Letterbox 8
–>Advanced Scaling Options for this
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
Basicly works fine and efficient , but could be even better with the improvements i stated .
I ran into some small bugs on GMA3 OnPC 2.2.1.1
–> Closing one screen while locked brings back the blue standard ScreenLock image on the over screens
–> Under some settings it happened to have a small amount of image from another screen on the edged of another`s screen image
What are the overall pros and cons?
PRO
Easy to use the basic operations
Password and corner touch de-lock is great
CON
Relation between Image Resoultion , screen resolution and Image mode should be stated in manual or kind of editable in the plugin
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
Yep cause its a funny small add on for Touring LD
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
nope


ThePirate


I have been working with MA3 for over two years as a system technician, for more than a year I have been operating almost every show on MA3. I am employed by a large full service provider for event technology and specialize in lighting, lighting networks and consoles. There, as well as in my self-employment as an operator, I now mostly prefer MA3 hardware.
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
Easy and smooth – like all the plugins used so far on this page.
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
The manual describes briefly and clearly how to use the plugin. Easy to understand.
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
Simple, intuitive use of the interface
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
A nice little gadget to customize your lock screens in a easy way. Plus the option to lock the console with a password (until some others know the shortcut to stop the plugin…).
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
Works very well – nothing to add.
What are the overall pros and cons?
Pro:
Easy use
Works stable
Cons:
Nothing
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
I would recommend this plugin as it does the job very well if you need individual, different lock screens and a simple password protection option
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
nothing to add
Hi, my name is Tom. I‘m a young lighting Operator from Hamburg.
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
Pretty straight forward. Like most other plugins.
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
Manual is great. Some more pictures of different settings could be useful.
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
Ist a very easy Interface. For it was very clean how to use it.
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
The Plugin and its core functionallity is to lock the desk with the abillity to change the locking mechanism.
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
Hadn‘t had any issues.
What are the overall pros and cons?
It‘s a well made Plugin, that works and does the job. The Interface is clean and good to use.
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
I would recommend if someone is searching exactly for this Type, but personally I don‘t See a reason for getting a plugin Like this, because in my opinion it doesn‘t really help in Security and it will make the Showfile a little less showsaftey.
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
Not really, everything ablese stated above.
GrandMa3 programmer for live shows and clubs
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
Very quick and easy
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
I did not need it it was very easy
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
Very intuitive and easy to use
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
Its missing the ability to use it with desk lock keys combination
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
It’s very useful
What are the overall pros and cons?
It’s missing the desk lock key
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
It’s a great way to customize the console
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
No
I’ve been on mode 2 for a while. Finally switched to mode 3 a few months ago.
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
Installed nicely. When moving from v. 1.9 to 2.0 I had to put the appearances into the plugin again…
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
Very simple process. The plugin is very straightforward- nothing fancy or complex.
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
As simple as it gets.
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
It’s great all in all, I would love to have the option that when I lock my screen normally it would trigger the macro and put the pro-desk lock on instead of the default one. For now the only way to have the pro desk lock active is to trigger the macro
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
I’ve used gifs in there-everything worked well
What are the overall pros and cons?
Pros-have something that makes people laugh and be able to be creative on something otherwise not so possible.
Cons-when locking my desk normally, it doesn’t trigger the pro-desk lock, I have to trigger the macro to start it. If there was a way to have the regular lock screen be the pro desk lock…
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
I have already. For the price point why would you not
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
Use your creativity. There are so many fun and interesting looks you can make-use it.
I’m a lighting designer who mainly works on GrandMA3 onPC for live shows and events. I use different plugins to make programming smoother and more creative. Right now, I test and review GrandMA3 plugins to help others find the best tools.
In the words of our plug-in pioneer
How smoothly the installation process of the Grandma3 plugin went and if any issues encountered were quickly resolved?
The installation process for ProDesklock on GrandMA3 was smooth and straightforward. The documentation provided clear steps for both Windows and Mac, making it easy to follow. I encountered no issues, and the plugin imported successfully on the first attempt.
Could you please describe how helpful the included plugin user manual was for you?
The user manual for ProDesklock was clear and covered all the essential features of the plugin. It provided step-by-step instructions and explanations, making it easy to understand. However, it lacked real-world examples or use cases, which would have been helpful for first-time users. I didn’t use any other guides, like videos, since the manual was enough to get started.
Please describe your opinion of the plugin’s user interface? What did you like, what did you not like and do you have any suggestions for improvement?
The ProDesklock user interface is clean, well-organized, and easy to navigate. The main features are clearly labeled, and the layout makes sense, so finding settings is quick and intuitive. I like that it provides clear visual feedback, such as yellow text for open displays, making it easy to track changes.
One thing that could be improved is the password system, storing it in plain text isn’t ideal for security. Adding an option to hide or encrypt the password would be a great improvement. Overall, the interface is user-friendly and works well for its purpose.
Could you please provide your opinion on the functionality of the plugin? Describe what features worked well for you, what could be improved, and if there are any specific function.
The ProDesklock plugin is simple and effective. It locks the GrandMA3 interface smoothly, and the ability to manage screen appearances is a great feature. The interface is clear, and the visual feedback helps track locked and open displays easily.
One thing that could be better is the password system, it would be nice to have a more secure way to store it. Overall, the plugin does its job well and makes workflow more efficient.
Please share your thoughts on the performance of the plugin. Did it meet your expectations in terms of speed and efficiency? Were there any performance issues you encountered?
The ProDesklock plugin runs smoothly and does not slow down GrandMA3. It responds quickly to commands, and I didn’t notice any lag or performance drops, even after prolonged use. The resource usage seems minimal, making it a reliable tool for live setups.
I didn’t experience any crashes or major issues, but it would be good to see how it performs in more complex show environments. Overall, it’s efficient and works as expected.
What are the overall pros and cons?
Pros:
✅ Easy to install and well-documented
✅ Clear and intuitive user interface
✅ Smooth performance with no lag or crashes
✅ Useful for locking displays and managing screen appearances
✅ Good value compared to similar tools
Cons:
❌ Password stored in plain text, could be more secure
❌ Limited customization
❌ No video or GIF option, but this is more of an MA3 limitation than a plugin issue
Would you recommend the plug-in, and why?
Yes, I would recommend the ProDesklock plugin. It’s easy to install, user-friendly, and works smoothly without performance issues. The ability to lock displays and manage screen appearances is useful for improving workflow, especially in live setups. While there are minor drawbacks, like password security and the lack of video options (which is more of an MA3 limitation), the plugin does its job well and adds value to the GrandMA3 system.
Do you have anything else to add that could be helpful for other users?
nope