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4.4 DMX 512 Configuration
4.5 DMX512 Connection
The DMX 512 is widely used in intelligent lighting control, with a maximum of 512 channels.
1. If you using a controller with 5 pins DMX output, you need to use a 5 to 3 pin
adapter-cable.
2. At last unit, the DMX cable has to be terminated with a terminator. Solder a 120 ohm
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1/4W resistor between pin 2(DMX-) and pin 3(DMX+) into a 3-pin XLR-plug and plug it
in the DMX-output of the last unit.
3. Connect the unit together in a `daisy chain` by XLR plug from the output of the unit to
the input of the next unit. The cable can not branched or split to a `Y` cable. DMX 512 is
a very high-speed signal. Inadequate or damaged cables, soldered joints or corroded
connectors can easily distort the signal and shut down the system.
4. The DMX output and input connectors are pass-through to maintain the DMX circuit,
when power is disconnected to the unit.
5. Each lighting unit needs to have an address set to receive the data sent by the
controller. The address number is between 0-511 (usually 0 & 1 are equal to 1).
6. The end of the DMX 512 system should be terminated to reduce signal errors.
7. 3 pin XLR connectors are more popular than 5 pin XLR.
3 pin XLR: Pin 1: GND, Pin 2: Negative signal (-), Pin 3: Positive signal (+)
5 pin XLR: Pin 1: GND, Pin 2: Negative signal (-), Pin 3: Positive signal (+)
Pin 4/5: Not used.
5. Troubleshooting
Following are a few common problems that may occur during operation. Here are
some suggestions for easy troubleshooting:
A. The unit does not work, no light and the fan does not work
1. Check the connection of power and main fuse.
2. Measure the mains voltage on the main connector.
3. Check the power on LED.
B. Not responding to DMX controller
1. DMX LED should be on. If not, check DMX connectors, cables to see if link properly.
2. If the DMX LED is on and no response to the channel, check the address settings and
DMX polarity.
3. If you have intermittent DMX signal problems, check the pins on connectors or on PCB
of the unit or the previous one.
4. Try to use another DMX controller.
5. Check if the DMX cables run near or run alongside to high voltage cables that may
