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UNDERSTANDING DMX
DMX-512
DMX is short for Digital Multiplex. This is a universal protocol used by most lighting and
controller manufactures as a form of communication between intelligent fixtures and
controllers. DMX allows all makes and models of different manufactures to be linked
together and operate from a single controller. This is possible as long as all the fixtures and
the controller are DMX compliant. A DMX controller sends the DMX data instructions to the
fixture allowing the user to control the different aspects of an intelligent light. DMX data is
sent out as serial data that travels from fixture to fixture via data “IN” and data “OUT” XLR
terminals located on the fixtures (most controllers will only have output jacks).
DMX LINKING
To ensure proper DMX data transmission, always use proper DMX cables and a terminator.
When using several DMX fixtures try to use the shortest cable path possible. Never split a
DMX line with a “Y” style connector. The order in which the fixtures are connected in a DMX
line does not influence the DMX addressing. For example; a fixture assigned a starting DMX
address of 1 may be placed anywhere in the DMX chain, at the beginning, at the end, or
anywhere in the middle. The DMX controller knows to send data assigned to address 1 to
that fixture no matter where it is located in the DMX chain. The DMX address is set
electronically using the controls on the LCD menu.
DATA CABLE (DMX Cable) REQUIREMENTS (For DMX and Master/Slave Operation)
Your fixture and your DMX controller require a standard 3-pin or 5-pin XLR connector for
data input and data output (see figure below). If you are making your own cables, be sure to
use two conductor, shielded digital DMX cable rated at 120 ohms; this cable is designed for
DMX transmission and may be purchased from your Elation dealer or at most professional
lighting retailers. Your cables should be made with a male and female XLR connector on
either end of the cable. Also, remember that a DMX line must be daisy chained and cannot
be split, unless using an approved DMX splitter such as the Elation Opto Branch 4™ or DMX
Branch/4™.