Prepare for Installation
9
Data Types and Topologies
LinkConnect
LinkConnect is the station communication bus from the Architectural Control Processor to the stations.
LinkConnect is based on Echelon LonWorks with LinkPower bidirectional protocol, and uses one pair of
wires (data +, data -). An additional 2.5 mm
2
(14 AWG) wire for grounding is required when the wiring
is not installed in grounded metal conduit.
LinkConnect is topology-free and polarity independent, you can install your LinkConnect data runs in
any desired combination of bus, loop, star, and home run. ETC recommends the use of Belden 8471
(or approved equal) wire. The total combined length of a LinkConnect wire run cannot exceed 500 m
(1,640 feet) with a maximum distance of 400 m (1,312 feet) between any two devices.
DMX
DMX can address up to 512 channels of control. DMX is installed in a daisy chain topology and includes
one pair of wires (data+ and data-) plus ground. ETC recommends the use of Belden 9729 (or
approved equal) wire with a single end of line termination (90-150
For best DMX performance,
twist the wires together as close to the pluggable connector as possible. DMX devices manufactured by
ETC are compliant with the USITT DMX512A standard.
Auxiliary 24 VDC
Auxiliary power is required when you are installing powered Unison control devices. ETC recommends
using two 1.5 mm
2
(16 AWG) stranded wires for 24 VDC auxiliary power. Maximum auxiliary voltage
runs are dependant by the wire gauge and the distribution of auxiliary load determined by installation.
The auxiliary supply is capable is of 36 W (1.5 A at 24 VDC).
Purpose
Stations (Belden
8471)
DMX (Belden
9729)
Ethernet (Cat5
/Belden 1583a)
Feet
Meter
Feet Meter
Feet
Meter
Total length of control wire
(without repeater module)
1640
500
1600
487
328
100
Maximum wire length (device
to device)
1313
400
1600
487
N/A
N/A
Maximum repeater distance
1640
500
N/A N/A
N/A
N/A
Note:
Repeater modules may be used to extend the LinkConnect station data bus an
additional 500 m (1,640 feet), with a maximum distance of 400 m (1,313 feet)
between the repeater and any station or station power supply.
