13.
Operation manual
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DMX PRIMER
UNDERSTANDING DMX
DMX512: This universal protocol is a standard for digital communication networks used to control
lighting systems. It allows all DMX equipped fixtures (from different manufactures) to all operate
together using a “common language”. A controller is used to communicate with the fixtures through a
network cable and sends instructions to the fixtures. This allows the user to control all of the fixture’s
features from a single location via the DMX controller.
The range value for each DMX channel is always
000
(off) -
255
(full on).
The DMX network consists of a controller and multiple fixtures and is wired in a "series" style chain.
The controller connects to the fixture 1 "In-connector" then the fixture 1 "Out-connector" plugs into the
fixture 2 "In-connector" and so on... In the example below, the 4 fixtures will operate independent of
each other since they all have unique “start addresses” 001, 017, 033, 049 (start address is covered in
the next section).
It does not matter the order of the fixtures within the chain. DMX start address 001 does not have to
be the first in line, it can be anywhere in the chain.
You can also assign the
same start address to multiple fixtures - called “Grouping Fixtures”. This will allow those fixtures to
work as a group and they will all respond the same to controller commands (see drawing example on
the next page).
WORKING WITH CONTROLLERS
ASSIGNING A FIXTURE’S “START ADDRESS”
In order for the controller to communicate with fixtures, each fixture must be assigned a DMX “start
address”. This is the numerical address in which the corresponding fixture will listen to the controller.
You can assign this start address by using the LCD control panel (or dip switches) located on your
fixture. Review the section “Control Panel Settings” for details on setting your fixtures start address.
Note:
To determine the start address for each fixture button on your controller, refer to your
controller’s operation manual.
If you assign each fixture with a unique start
address, the controller can operate the fixtures independent of each other.
Controller
Always use a 120 ohm 1/4w DMX terminator
on the last fixture in the chain
001
017
033
049
In
Out
In
Out
In
Out
Out
Fixture 1
Fixture 3
Fixture 4
Fixture 2
©2012 Colorverge, Inc. - All Rights Reserved
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