DMX-680 User Manual
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2006-10-10
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5. Appendix
DMX Primer
There are 512 channels in a DMX-512 connection. Channels may be assigned in any manner. A
fixture capable of receiving DMX-512 will require one or a number of sequential channels. The user
must assign a starting address on the fixture that indicates the first channel reserved in the controller.
There are many different types of DMX controllable fixtures and they all may vary in the total number
of channels required. Choosing a start address should be planned in advance. Channels should
never overlap. If they do, this will result in erratic operation of the fixtures whose starting address is
set incorrectly. You can however, control multiple fixtures of the same type using the same starting
address as long as the intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the
fixtures will be slaved together and all respond exactly the same.
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a serial Daisy Chain. A Daisy Chain connection is
where the DATA OUT of one fixture connects to the DATA IN of the next fixture. The order in which
the fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how a controller communicates to
each fixture. Use an order that provides for the easiest and most direct cabling. Connect fixtures
using shielded two conductor twisted pair cable with three pin XLR male to female connectors. The
shield connection is pin 1, while pin 2 is Data Negative (S-) and pin 3 is Data positive (S+). CHAUVET
carries 3-pin XLR DMX compliant cables, DMX-10 (33’), DMX-4.5 (15’) and DMX-1.5 (5’)
Returns Procedure
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Merchandise Authorization Number (RA #). Products
returned without an RA # will be refused. Call CHAUVET and request RA # prior to shipping the
fixture. Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause
for the return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate
packaging is the customer’s responsibility. CHAUVET reserves the right to use its own discretion to
repair or replace product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe
method to use.
Claims
Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise. It is the customer's responsibility to notify and
submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is damaged due to shipping. Any other claim
for items such as missing component/part, damage not related to shipping, and concealed damage,
must be made within seven (7) days of receiving merchandise.
Maintenance
To maintain optimum performance and minimize wear, fixtures should be cleaned frequently. Usage
and environment are contributing factors in determining frequency. As a general rule, fixtures should
be cleaned at least twice a month. Dust build up reduces light output performance and can cause
overheating. This can lead to reduced lamp life and increased mechanical wear. Be sure to power off
fixture before conducting maintenance.
