16
RUSH Strobe CWL
TM
User Manual
Control data link
A DMX 512 data link is required in order to control the fixture via DMX. The
fixture has 3-pin and 5-pin XLR sockets for DMX data input and output. These
are connected so that either output socket can be used for output.
Up to 32 devices can be linked together on a single daisy chain. To add more
fixtures, use a second DMX universe or split the data link into branches.
Tips for reliable data transmission
Use shielded twisted-pair cable designed for RS-485 devices: standard
microphone cable cannot transmit control data reliably over long runs. 24
AWG cable is suitable for runs up to 300 meters (1000 ft.). Heavier gauge
cable and/or an amplifier is recommended for longer runs. The pin-out on all
connectors is pin 1 = shield, pin 2 = cold (-), and pin 3 = hot (+). Pins 4 and 5
in the 5-pin XLR connectors are not used in the fixture but are available for
possible additional data signals as required by the DMX512-A standard.
Standard pin-out is pin 4 = data 2 cold (-) and pin 5 = data 2 hot (+).
To split the link into branches, use a splitter such as the Martin DMX 5.3
Splitter™. Terminate the link by installing a termination plug in the output
socket of the last fixture. The termination plug, which is a male XLR plug with
a 120 Ohm, 0.25-Watt resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3, “soaks up” the
control signal so it does not reflect and cause interference. If you use a
splitter, terminate each branch of the link.
Connecting the DMX data link
To connect fixtures to a controller:
1. Connect the DMX data output from the controller to the first fixture’s male
3-pin or 5-pin XLR DMX input connector.
2. Connect the first fixture’s 3-pin or 5-pin DMX output to the DMX input of
the next fixture and continue connecting fixtures output to input.
3. Terminate the last fixture on the link with a DMX termination plug.
