Fixtures require a "Start Address" from 1 to 512, setting the first DMX channel containing data
for the fixture (see DMX Background). Before addressing fixtures, consult the manual of the
system’s DMX controller to select a desirable addressing scheme. Valid Start Addresses range
from 1 to 512. Fixtures requiring more than one channel for control will read subsequent
channels up to the total number of channels required. Since this fixture requires 6 channels of
DMX, if set to a Start Address of 7 it would use data from channels: 7 and 8, 9, 10, 11, 12.
Choose a Start Address so the channels used DO NOT overlap with other fixtures. In some
cases, it may be desirable to set two or more same type fixtures to the same Start Address. In
this case, the fixtures will be slaved together and respond to the same data. Because all
fixtures see the same data, fixtures may be set to any address without concern for the order
they are connected by the DMX cables.
DMX Data Connection
This fixture uses 3 pin XLR type connectors and shielded twisted pair cable approved for
EIA-422/EIA485 use. Fixtures are connected in Daisy Chain topography: Connection is
made from the controller to the DMX-IN of the first light, then from the DMX-OUT to the
DMX-IN of the next light and so on. Only one data source can be on a chain and no
branching is allowed. The physical order in which the fixtures are connected is not
important, use the most convenient.
DMX-OUT
1
2
3
- Ground
- Signal (-)
- Signal (+)
XLR Connector - Socket:
DMX-IN
1
2
3
- Ground
- Signal (-)
- Signal (+)
XLR Connector - Plug:
Data Terminator
A Data Terminator can be connected to the DMX-OUT of the
last fixture to reduce the effects of signal noise; it is not required
for all installations. To make a Terminator, connect a 120-ohm
¼ watt resistor across pin 2, Data Negative (S-) and pin 3, Data
positive (S+). Whether it is a 5 pin XLR or 3 pin XLR connector
(shown on right) does not matter, the pin numbers remain the
same. A qualified technician can determine if a Data Terminator
is needed.
Adapter
5-to-3 pin
Systems using 5 pin DMX interfaces can be accommodated by purchasing 3-to-5 pin
adapters or building adapter cables. Numbers designating each pin can be found on
connectors. Converting between the two XLR types is done in a pin-to-pin fashion.
Connect the shields to pin 1, then connect pin 2 to pin 2 and pin 3 to pin 3, regardless of
either connector’s gender or pin count. No connection is made to Pins 4 & 5.
9
