http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=DynamoBen&feedformat=atomdoityourselfchristmas.com - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T15:25:17ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.41.0http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=7171E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2012-08-19T03:16:38Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Protocol Description */</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called sACN (E1.31). This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
sACN is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/news.aspx?ID=20065&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==Streaming-ACN (E1.31) with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]] <br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=7170E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2012-08-19T03:16:17Z<p>DynamoBen: /* What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)? */</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called sACN (E1.31). This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/news.aspx?ID=20065&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==Streaming-ACN (E1.31) with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]] <br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=6184E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2012-01-24T04:41:12Z<p>DynamoBen: /* More Information */</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/news.aspx?ID=20065&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==Streaming-ACN (E1.31) with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]] <br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=6183E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2012-01-24T04:40:56Z<p>DynamoBen: /* More Information */</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/news.aspx?ID=20065 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==Streaming-ACN (E1.31) with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]] <br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Control_boards_and_Contacts&diff=5205Control boards and Contacts2011-06-04T17:30:05Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Lighting Control Board Source Listing */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Lighting Control Board Source Listing ==<br />
<br />
Below is a list of board designs that are found on DoItYourselfChristmas.com (DIYC) and the contact sources for them.<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''NON-DIMMING CONTROLLERS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Olsen 595|COOP Olsen 595]] <br />
|align="left"|64 Channels, requires external SSRs, Parallel Port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=2 Macrosill]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=10 Olsen 595 Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[GRINCH_Controller_Assembly_Instructions|Grinch]] <br />
|align="left"|64 Channels, requires external SSRs, Parallel Port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=31 Grinch Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''DIMMING CONTROLLERS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard16]] <br> (Xmus16) <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard64|Renard 64]] <br />
|align="left"|64 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[24 Channel Renard with SSR Assembly Instructions|Renard 24]] <br />
|align="left"| 24 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=4 fkostyun]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard 24LV|Renard 24LV]] <br />
|align="left"|24 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=4 fkostyun]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|- <br />
|[[The Renard SS8 Controller Board|Renard SS8]] <br />
|align="left"|8 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[The Renard SS16 Controller Board|Renard SS16]] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[The Renard SS24 Controller Board|Renard SS24]] <br />
|align="left"|24 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Ren48LSDv3c|Renard 48LSD]] <br />
|align="left"|48 channels, intended to drive LED light strips, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1986 budude]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Firegod]] <br />
|align="left"|128 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=71 Firegod]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=32 Firegod Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Helix]] <br />
|align="left"|128 channels, requires external SSRs, stand alone controller<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=44 gmbartlett]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=65 Helix Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?7497-DMX4-SSR-Project RPM DMX4SSR] <br />
|align="left"|4 channels, on-board SSRs, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?12372-DMX16SSR-Project RPM DMX16SSR] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?8340-DMX8-DCSSR-Project RPM DMX8-DCSSR] <br />
|align="left"|8 channels, on-board Dimmable DC SSRs, DMX controlled <br><br />
For LED Portafloods, MiniMighty LED Floods, LED MR16's, etc.<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?10784-Dmx16-dc-ssr RPM DMX16-DCSSR] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board Dimmable DC SSRs, DMX controlled <br><br />
For LED Portafloods, MiniMighty LED Floods, LED MR16's, etc.<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''MISCELLANEOUS DIYC BOARDS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard-595 Converter|Ren-C]]<br />
|align="left"|Provides dimming capability to Grinch and Olsen 595 boards, Serial controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[DMX to Grinch/595 convertor |RPM Grinch/595 DMX Dimmer]]<br />
|align="left"|Provides dimming capability to Grinch and Olsen 595 boards, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard Wireless Converter|Ren-W]]<br />
|align="left"|Adapts Wired Renard boards to Wireless, Serial device<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=3044 dirknerkle]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=57 Development Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[LedTriks Controller Assembly Instructions|LEDTriks]]<br />
|align="left"| LED sign (Animation and scrolling text), Parallel port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13 LEDtrik Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[TRIKSC|Triks-C]]<br />
|align="left"|Serial port or standalone adapter for the LEDTriks <br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13 LEDtrik Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[4 Channel SSROZ Assembly Instructions|SSROZ]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel SSR<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[4 Channel DCSSR Assembly Instructions|DCSSR]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel DC SSR<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[SSRez]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel SSR for TA-200 Enclosure<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1606 g2ktcf]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?7009-USB-to-DMX-dongle-Enttec-Pro-compatible RPM USB to DMX Adapter]<br />
| align="left"|USB to DMX dongle, Enttec USB Pro Compatible<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|[[PropController]]<br />
| align="left"|PropController - Multi-Function, Multi-Core controller<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=100 DynamoBen]<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?91-PropController PropController Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Open Design Disclaimer:''' Here at DIYC, we work on an open design concept. This means that any design brought to the Forums or chatroom on DIYC and are openly discussed for development and later distributed, it is expected to have the schematics openly shared and publicly published somewhere on the site. Any actual PCB board design is the property of the author.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:DIYC Controllers]]<br />
[[Category:Beginners Info]]<br />
[[Category:General Info]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS8]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS16]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS24]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 24]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 48LSD]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 64XC]]<br />
[[Category:Renard64]]<br />
[[Category:Renard16 (xmus)]]<br />
[[Category:The Grinch]]<br />
[[Category:Olsen 595]]<br />
[[Category:Firegod and Helix]]<br />
[[Category:RPMs DMX Designs]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Control_boards_and_Contacts&diff=5204Control boards and Contacts2011-06-04T17:25:11Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Lighting Control Board Source Listing */</p>
<hr />
<div>== Lighting Control Board Source Listing ==<br />
<br />
Below is a list of board designs that are found on DoItYourselfChristmas.com (DIYC) and the contact sources for them.<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''NON-DIMMING CONTROLLERS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Olsen 595|COOP Olsen 595]] <br />
|align="left"|64 Channels, requires external SSRs, Parallel Port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=2 Macrosill]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=10 Olsen 595 Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[GRINCH_Controller_Assembly_Instructions|Grinch]] <br />
|align="left"|64 Channels, requires external SSRs, Parallel Port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=31 Grinch Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''DIMMING CONTROLLERS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard16]] <br> (Xmus16) <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard64|Renard 64]] <br />
|align="left"|64 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[24 Channel Renard with SSR Assembly Instructions|Renard 24]] <br />
|align="left"| 24 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=4 fkostyun]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard 24LV|Renard 24LV]] <br />
|align="left"|24 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=4 fkostyun]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|- <br />
|[[The Renard SS8 Controller Board|Renard SS8]] <br />
|align="left"|8 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[The Renard SS16 Controller Board|Renard SS16]] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[The Renard SS24 Controller Board|Renard SS24]] <br />
|align="left"|24 channels, on-board SSRs, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=6 waynej]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Ren48LSDv3c|Renard 48LSD]] <br />
|align="left"|48 channels, intended to drive LED light strips, Serial/DMX controlled<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1986 budude]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Firegod]] <br />
|align="left"|128 channels, requires external SSRs, Serial controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=71 Firegod]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=32 Firegod Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Helix]] <br />
|align="left"|128 channels, requires external SSRs, stand alone controller<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=44 gmbartlett]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=65 Helix Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?7497-DMX4-SSR-Project RPM DMX4SSR] <br />
|align="left"|4 channels, on-board SSRs, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?12372-DMX16SSR-Project RPM DMX16SSR] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board SSRs, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?8340-DMX8-DCSSR-Project RPM DMX8-DCSSR] <br />
|align="left"|8 channels, on-board Dimmable DC SSRs, DMX controlled <br><br />
For LED Portafloods, MiniMighty LED Floods, LED MR16's, etc.<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?10784-Dmx16-dc-ssr RPM DMX16-DCSSR] <br />
|align="left"|16 channels, on-board Dimmable DC SSRs, DMX controlled <br><br />
For LED Portafloods, MiniMighty LED Floods, LED MR16's, etc.<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
{| border="1" cellpadding="10" style="text-align: center;" <br />
|+ '''MISCELLANEOUS DIYC BOARDS'''<br />
!width="180"|BOARD<br />
!width="460"|DESCRIPTION<br />
!width="85"|CONTACT<br />
!width="180"|ASSOCIATED DIYC FORUM<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard-595 Converter|Ren-C]]<br />
|align="left"|Provides dimming capability to Grinch and Olsen 595 boards, Serial controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=34 Renard Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[DMX to Grinch/595 convertor |RPM Grinch/595 DMX Dimmer]]<br />
|align="left"|Provides dimming capability to Grinch and Olsen 595 boards, DMX controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[Renard Wireless Converter|Ren-W]]<br />
|align="left"|Adapts Wired Renard boards to Wireless, Serial device<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=3044 dirknerkle]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=57 Development Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[LedTriks Controller Assembly Instructions|LEDTriks]]<br />
|align="left"| LED sign (Animation and scrolling text), Parallel port controlled<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13 LEDtrik Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[TRIKSC|Triks-C]]<br />
|align="left"|Serial port or standalone adapter for the LEDTriks <br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13 LEDtrik Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[4 Channel SSROZ Assembly Instructions|SSROZ]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel SSR<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[4 Channel DCSSR Assembly Instructions|DCSSR]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel DC SSR<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=11 wjohn]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[[SSRez]]<br />
|align="left"|4 Channel SSR for TA-200 Enclosure<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1606 g2ktcf]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=11 SSR Forum]<br />
|-<br />
|[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?7009-USB-to-DMX-dongle-Enttec-Pro-compatible RPM USB to DMX Adapter]<br />
| align="left"|USB to DMX dongle, Enttec USB Pro Compatible<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm&u=1269 RPM]<br />
||[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=33 DMX Forum]<br />
|<br />
|-<br />
|[[PropController]]<br />
| align="left"|PropController - Multi-Function, Multi-Core controller<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/private.php?do=newpm DynamoBen]<br />
||[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?91-PropController PropController Forum]<br />
|}<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''Open Design Disclaimer:''' Here at DIYC, we work on an open design concept. This means that any design brought to the Forums or chatroom on DIYC and are openly discussed for development and later distributed, it is expected to have the schematics openly shared and publicly published somewhere on the site. Any actual PCB board design is the property of the author.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:DIYC Controllers]]<br />
[[Category:Beginners Info]]<br />
[[Category:General Info]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS8]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS16]]<br />
[[Category:Renard SS24]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 24]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 48LSD]]<br />
[[Category:Renard 64XC]]<br />
[[Category:Renard64]]<br />
[[Category:Renard16 (xmus)]]<br />
[[Category:The Grinch]]<br />
[[Category:Olsen 595]]<br />
[[Category:Firegod and Helix]]<br />
[[Category:RPMs DMX Designs]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=ArtNet&diff=4904ArtNet2011-02-01T23:01:16Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is ArtNet?==<br />
<br />
This is one of the open source Ethernet protocols that is used for lighting control. This protocol was used more widely prior to the release of the new industry standard ACN. Overall ArtNet isn't very complicated and doesn't require a developer to purchase anything (the ACN standard must be purchased from ESTA). With that said is it a "heavy" protocol, that requires a device to identify itself on the network. This protocol also requires the device to parse multiple universes of network data locally. <br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/WebSiteMaster/User%20Guides/art-net.pdf Protocol Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/index.php?mode=support&sub=updates&action=&category_id=31&product_id=&project_id=&policies_id=&cart_id=&order_id= Utilities]<br />
<br />
==Vixen Plug-in==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?5552-Artnet-support-in-Vixen.. Plug-in Thread]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]] <br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=4901Protocols2011-02-01T06:10:48Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Protocols */</p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- DMX protocol and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Streaming-ACN]] -- The ethernet standard that replaces DMX, also known as E1.31<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] -- An Open Ethernet Lighting Control protocol<br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=4900Protocols2011-02-01T06:09:49Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- DMX protocol and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Streaming-ACN]] -- The ethernet standard that replaces DMX<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] -- An Open Ethernet Lighting Control protocol <br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=4899Protocols2011-02-01T06:05:26Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- DMX protocol and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Streaming-ACN (E1.31)]] -- The ethernet standard that replaces DMX<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] -- An Open Ethernet Lighting Control protocol <br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=4898Protocols2011-02-01T06:00:45Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] <br />
<br />
[[Streaming-ACN]] <br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4897E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:59:59Z<p>DynamoBen: /* E1.31 with Vixen */</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==Streaming-ACN (E1.31) with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4896E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:59:15Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]<br />
<br />
==Tools==<br />
<br />
[http://sacnview.sourceforge.net/ sACNView: Sends and Receives Streaming-ACN]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4895E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:57:25Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
A ratified/offical copy of the standard can be purchased [http://tsp.plasa.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php here] for about $40.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4894E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:54:20Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA, the creator of the standard, ratified a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN or E1.31. This lightweight version allows microcontroller based lighting equipment to communicate via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC provided the protocol information (code and draft specification) at no charge.<br />
<br />
==Protocol Description==<br />
E1.31 is ethernet based and is sent via UDP. The two accepted transport methods are multicast and unicast, the most common implementation is multicast. When using multicast all the controller needs to do is subscribe to the multicast address for the universe that you want to receive data from.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example and Draft Copy of Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=ArtNet&diff=4893ArtNet2011-02-01T05:36:09Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is ArtNet?==<br />
<br />
It's not directly DMX related but this is one of the open source Ethernet protocols that was used for lighting control. This protocol was used widely prior to the release of the new industry standard ACN (see ACN sticky). The big win here is it isn't very complicated and you don't have to purchase anything (the ACN standard must be purchased from ESTA).<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/WebSiteMaster/User%20Guides/art-net.pdf Protocol Specification]<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/index.php?mode=support&sub=updates&action=&category_id=31&product_id=&project_id=&policies_id=&cart_id=&order_id= Utilities]<br />
<br />
==Vixen Plug-in==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?5552-Artnet-support-in-Vixen.. Plug-in Thread]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=ArtNet&diff=4892ArtNet2011-02-01T05:34:11Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is ArtNet?==<br />
<br />
It's not directly DMX related but this is one of the open source Ethernet protocols that was used for lighting control. This protocol was used widely prior to the release of the new industry standard ACN (see ACN sticky). The big win here is it isn't very complicated and you don't have to purchase anything (the ACN standard must be purchased from ESTA).<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/ Protocol Creator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/index.php?mode=support&sub=updates&action=&category_id=31&product_id=&project_id=&policies_id=&cart_id=&order_id= Utilities]<br />
<br />
==Vixen Plug-in==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?5552-Artnet-support-in-Vixen.. Plug-in Thread]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=ArtNet&diff=4891ArtNet2011-02-01T05:31:40Z<p>DynamoBen: Created page with '==What is ArtNet?== It's not directly DMX related but this is one of the open source Ethernet protocols that was used for lighting control. This protocol was used widely prior t…'</p>
<hr />
<div>==What is ArtNet?==<br />
<br />
It's not directly DMX related but this is one of the open source Ethernet protocols that was used for lighting control. This protocol was used widely prior to the release of the new industry standard ACN (see ACN sticky). The big win here is it isn't very complicated and you don't have to purchase anything (the ACN standard must be purchased from ESTA).<br />
<br />
[http://www.artisticlicence.com/ Protocol Creator]<br />
<br />
==Vixen Plug-in==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?5552-Artnet-support-in-Vixen.. Plug-in Thread]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4890E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:28:13Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article: E1.31: An Offer You Can't Resist]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4889E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:27:09Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
==More Information==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example]<br />
<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4888E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:26:31Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1 Description]<br />
[http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339 Code Example]<br />
[http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40 Article]<br />
<br />
==E1.31 with Vixen==<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin Plug-in]<br />
[http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions Discussion about Protocol]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4887E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:24:20Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>==What is Streaming-ACN (E1.31)?==<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
=Description:=<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1<br />
<br />
=Example/Test Streaming-ACN Code:=<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339<br />
<br />
=Article:=<br />
http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40<br />
<br />
=E1.31 with Vixen=<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4886E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:21:06Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>Streaming-ACN (E1.31)<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
Description:<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.overview.aspx?ID=20339&lang=us&region=1<br />
<br />
Code (I've attached a copy of the ETC code and Draft Spec here):<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.software.signin.aspx?docID=20481&ID=20339<br />
Article:<br />
http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4897&Itemid=40<br />
<br />
E1.31 with Vixen<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11731-E1.31-Vixen-Plugin<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/showthread.php?11730-E1.31-Protocol-Discussions</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=E1.31_(Streaming-ACN)_Protocol&diff=4885E1.31 (Streaming-ACN) Protocol2011-02-01T05:18:48Z<p>DynamoBen: Created page with ' ACN (E1.31) ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol …'</p>
<hr />
<div> ACN (E1.31)<br />
<br />
ACN is a suite of protocols (via Ethernet) that is the industry standard for lighting and control. ESTA is in the process of ratifying a subset of this protocol for "lightweight" devices which is called DMX-over-ACN. This would allow microcontroller devices to communicate with lighting equipment via ethernet, without all the overhead of the full ACN protocol. In an effort push early adoption ETC is providing the protocol information at no charge.<br />
<br />
Description:<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.ov...ng=us&region=1<br />
Code (I've attached a copy of the ETC code and Draft Spec here):<br />
http://www.etcconnect.com/product.so...20481&ID=20339<br />
Article:<br />
http://www.plsn.com/index.php?option...4897&Itemid=40<br />
<br />
E1.31 with Vixen<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/for...ad.php?t=11731<br />
http://doityourselfchristmas.com/for...ad.php?t=11730</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=4884Protocols2011-02-01T05:18:14Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[Streaming-ACN]] (Future)<br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Category:Protocols]]<br />
[[Category:DIYC Index]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev4.png&diff=4613File:DMX pinsRev4.png2011-01-08T23:56:04Z<p>DynamoBen: uploaded a new version of "File:DMX pinsRev4.png"</p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev4.png&diff=4612File:DMX pinsRev4.png2011-01-08T23:54:24Z<p>DynamoBen: uploaded a new version of "File:DMX pinsRev4.png"</p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=4611DMX2011-01-08T23:54:03Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Connecting Devices */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Speed: 250kbit/sec<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX_pinsRev4.png]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen &ndash; one part is the DMX-512 plug-in and the other is the DMX Add-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This change is needed because Vixen automatically converts a percentage of brightness (such as 50%) to the DMX equivalent (50% brightness would be a DMX value of 128); some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose: it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in should only be enabled when using an [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Enttec Open DMX USB dongle] (or clone); "intelligent" dongles &ndash; such as the Enttec DMX USB Pro dongle, the [http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?board=7.0 Lynx DMX dongle], the [http://shop.martinxmas.com/product.php?id_product=10 RPM dongle] or the [[USB2DMX]] (Yada) dongle &ndash; handle their own streaming of DMX data on-board (don't rely on PC) so you should not enable the DMX add-in (enabling this add-in '''WILL''' causes problems with dongles other than the OpenDMX).<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev4.png&diff=4609File:DMX pinsRev4.png2011-01-08T23:52:47Z<p>DynamoBen: uploaded a new version of "File:DMX pinsRev4.png"</p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev4.png&diff=4608File:DMX pinsRev4.png2011-01-08T23:50:30Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=4591DMX2010-12-30T22:41:28Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Connecting Devices */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Speed: 250kbit/sec<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX_pinsRev3.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen &ndash; one part is the DMX-512 plug-in and the other is the DMX Add-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This change is needed because Vixen automatically converts a percentage of brightness (such as 50%) to the DMX equivalent (50% brightness would be a DMX value of 128); some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose: it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in should only be enabled when using an [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Enttec Open DMX USB dongle] (or clone); "intelligent" dongles &ndash; such as the Enttec DMX USB Pro dongle, the [http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?board=7.0 Lynx DMX dongle], the [http://shop.martinxmas.com/product.php?id_product=10 RPM dongle] or the [[USB2DMX]] (Yada) dongle &ndash; handle their own streaming of DMX data on-board (don't rely on PC) so you should not enable the DMX add-in (enabling this add-in '''WILL''' causes problems with dongles other than the OpenDMX).<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev3.gif&diff=4590File:DMX pinsRev3.gif2010-12-30T22:41:04Z<p>DynamoBen: uploaded a new version of "File:DMX pinsRev3.gif"</p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=File:DMX_pinsRev3.gif&diff=4589File:DMX pinsRev3.gif2010-12-30T22:38:31Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div></div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=4320DMX2010-09-10T17:25:07Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Vixen Setup */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Speed: 250kbit/sec<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen &ndash; one part is the DMX-512 plug-in and the other is the DMX Add-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This change is needed because Vixen automatically converts a percentage of brightness (such as 50%) to the DMX equivalent (50% brightness would be a DMX value of 128); some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose: it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in should only be enabled when using a [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Enttec Open DMX USB dongle] (or clone); "intelligent" dongles &ndash; such as the Enttec DMX USB Pro dongle. The [http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?board=7.0 Lynx DMX dongle], the [http://shop.martinxmas.com/product.php?id_product=10 RPM dongle] or the [[USB2DMX]] (Yada) dongle &ndash; handle their own streaming of DMX data on-board (don't rely on PC) so you should not enable the DMX add-in (enabling this add-in '''WILL''' causes problems with dongles other than the OpenDMX).<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=4318DMX2010-09-10T04:20:22Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Vixen Setup */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Speed: 250kbit/sec<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen &ndash; one part is the DMX-512 plug-in and the other is the DMX Add-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This change is needed because Vixen automatically converts a percentage of brightness (such as 50%) to the DMX equivalent (50% brightness would be a DMX value of 128); some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose: it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
The DMX Add-in should only be enabled when using a [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Enttec Open DMX USB dongle] (or clone); "intelligent" dongles &ndash; such as the Enttec DMX USB Pro dongle. The [http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?board=7.0 Lynx DMX dongle], the [http://shop.martinxmas.com/product.php?id_product=10 RPM dongle] or the [[USB2DMX]] (Yada) dongle &ndash; handle their own streaming of DMX data on-board (don't rely on PC) so you should not enable the DMX add-in(there have been reports that enabling this add-in causes problems with dongles that are not the OpenDMX).<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2706Protocols2009-06-17T02:54:46Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)<br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2705Protocols2009-06-17T02:54:11Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Communications */</p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)<br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial - RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial - RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2704Protocols2009-06-17T02:53:14Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols and communications methods used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overviews to details about the inner workings of the protocol or communication method. <br />
<br />
==Protocols==<br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)<br />
<br />
==Communications==<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2703Protocols2009-06-17T02:52:03Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overview of the protocol to details about the inner workings of the protocols. <br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)<br />
<br />
==Communications==</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=2702Main Page2009-06-17T02:51:32Z<p>DynamoBen: /* '''Categories''' */</p>
<hr />
<div><big>'''ChristmasWiki'''</big><br />
<br />
[[Image:avatar.gif|right]]<br />
<br />
'''Welcome to the ChristmasWiki! This is the official wiki for the DIY Christmas display community.'''<br /><br />
Here you will find all sorts of information - from how to hang Christmas lights, to PCB designs for special hardware to flash those lights, to software that makes it all work together.<br />
<br />
<br />
Everything you read here is a contribution from the members of DoItYourselfChristmas.com. If you would like to make a contribution, please do as we all have ideas to share. The more content we have, the better we become. <br />
<br />
Contributions do not have to be specific to Christmas. Information here can include anything that can or is used for any holiday display like Halloween or the 4th of July. It can be a simple trick to make your display easier to put up and take down, or a detailed set of instructions for building an amazing prop. If we get a small contribution from every member then we will have the largest collection of How-Tos and Tips of any display-oriented site on the Internet. So let's all write up an article or two.<br />
<br />
<big>[[Disclaimers]]</big><br />
<br />
=='''Categories'''==<br />
<br />
<table border="1"><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:diyc.jpg]]</td><td>'''[[Beginners Guide]]'''</td><td>A starting point for beginners to get familiar with DIYC.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_software.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Software]]'''</td><td>[[Vixen]] and other forms of software to control lights or for other lights-related purposes.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_generalinfo.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[General Information and Tips]]'''</td><td>General information and tips, from quick tips, to conceptual-level documents, to detailed wiring descriptions.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_displayconstruction.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Display Construction]]'''</td><td>How to construct items for your display.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_electronicshardware.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Electronics Hardware]]'''</td><td>Electronics hardware you can build to control lights or other items. Includes general overviews and documentation for various designs.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_protocols.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Protocols]]'''</td><td>An in-depth look at how light controllers, computers, and other devices communicate in a light show setup.</td></tr><br />
<br />
</table><br />
<br />
== ''Other areas of DoItYourselfChristmas'' ==<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com Home Page]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/index.php Forum]<br />
*[http://www.christmasinshirley.com/forum/album.php Photo Album]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/chat/flashchat.php Chatroom]<br />
<br />
== ''Editing the ChristmasWiki''==<br />
If you do decide to make a contribution, please follow the format that is currently being utilized. Your article should have its own page and be linked to from the most appropriate category page.<br /><br />
<br />
When uploading images, please try to keep them sized at 200px x 150px, or smaller/larger depending on how it will be used.<br /><br />
<br />
Please use Section Headers (with equals signs) to divide the content on your pages. This allows a Table of Contents to be generated and also makes the article easier to read.<br /><br />
<br />
''The below links do not point to any content on this site. They point to the MediaWiki support pages.''<br />
<br />
* Consult the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.<br />
* [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=2701Main Page2009-06-17T02:50:41Z<p>DynamoBen: /* '''Categories''' */</p>
<hr />
<div><big>'''ChristmasWiki'''</big><br />
<br />
[[Image:avatar.gif|right]]<br />
<br />
'''Welcome to the ChristmasWiki! This is the official wiki for the DIY Christmas display community.'''<br /><br />
Here you will find all sorts of information - from how to hang Christmas lights, to PCB designs for special hardware to flash those lights, to software that makes it all work together.<br />
<br />
<br />
Everything you read here is a contribution from the members of DoItYourselfChristmas.com. If you would like to make a contribution, please do as we all have ideas to share. The more content we have, the better we become. <br />
<br />
Contributions do not have to be specific to Christmas. Information here can include anything that can or is used for any holiday display like Halloween or the 4th of July. It can be a simple trick to make your display easier to put up and take down, or a detailed set of instructions for building an amazing prop. If we get a small contribution from every member then we will have the largest collection of How-Tos and Tips of any display-oriented site on the Internet. So let's all write up an article or two.<br />
<br />
<big>[[Disclaimers]]</big><br />
<br />
=='''Categories'''==<br />
<br />
<table border="1"><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:diyc.jpg]]</td><td>'''[[Beginners Guide]]'''</td><td>A starting point for beginners to get familiar with DIYC.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_software.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Software]]'''</td><td>[[Vixen]] and other forms of software to control lights or for other lights-related purposes.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_generalinfo.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[General Information and Tips]]'''</td><td>General information and tips, from quick tips, to conceptual-level documents, to detailed wiring descriptions.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_displayconstruction.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Display Construction]]'''</td><td>How to construct items for your display.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_electronicshardware.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Electronics Hardware]]'''</td><td>Electronics hardware you can build to control lights or other items. Includes general overviews and documentation for various designs.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_protocols.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Protocols & Communication]]'''</td><td>An in-depth look at how light controllers, computers, and other devices communicate in a light show setup.</td></tr><br />
<br />
</table><br />
<br />
== ''Other areas of DoItYourselfChristmas'' ==<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com Home Page]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/index.php Forum]<br />
*[http://www.christmasinshirley.com/forum/album.php Photo Album]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/chat/flashchat.php Chatroom]<br />
<br />
== ''Editing the ChristmasWiki''==<br />
If you do decide to make a contribution, please follow the format that is currently being utilized. Your article should have its own page and be linked to from the most appropriate category page.<br /><br />
<br />
When uploading images, please try to keep them sized at 200px x 150px, or smaller/larger depending on how it will be used.<br /><br />
<br />
Please use Section Headers (with equals signs) to divide the content on your pages. This allows a Table of Contents to be generated and also makes the article easier to read.<br /><br />
<br />
''The below links do not point to any content on this site. They point to the MediaWiki support pages.''<br />
<br />
* Consult the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.<br />
* [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page&diff=2700Main Page2009-06-17T02:50:01Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div><big>'''ChristmasWiki'''</big><br />
<br />
[[Image:avatar.gif|right]]<br />
<br />
'''Welcome to the ChristmasWiki! This is the official wiki for the DIY Christmas display community.'''<br /><br />
Here you will find all sorts of information - from how to hang Christmas lights, to PCB designs for special hardware to flash those lights, to software that makes it all work together.<br />
<br />
<br />
Everything you read here is a contribution from the members of DoItYourselfChristmas.com. If you would like to make a contribution, please do as we all have ideas to share. The more content we have, the better we become. <br />
<br />
Contributions do not have to be specific to Christmas. Information here can include anything that can or is used for any holiday display like Halloween or the 4th of July. It can be a simple trick to make your display easier to put up and take down, or a detailed set of instructions for building an amazing prop. If we get a small contribution from every member then we will have the largest collection of How-Tos and Tips of any display-oriented site on the Internet. So let's all write up an article or two.<br />
<br />
<big>[[Disclaimers]]</big><br />
<br />
=='''Categories'''==<br />
<br />
<table border="1"><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:diyc.jpg]]</td><td>'''[[Beginners Guide]]'''</td><td>A starting point for beginners to get familiar with DIYC.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_software.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Software]]'''</td><td>[[Vixen]] and other forms of software to control lights or for other lights-related purposes.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_generalinfo.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[General Information and Tips]]'''</td><td>General information and tips, from quick tips, to conceptual-level documents, to detailed wiring descriptions.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_displayconstruction.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Display Construction]]'''</td><td>How to construct items for your display.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_electronicshardware.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Electronics Hardware]]'''</td><td>Electronics hardware you can build to control lights or other items. Includes general overviews and documentation for various designs.</td></tr><br />
<br />
<tr><td>[[Image:Mp_protocols.GIF]]</td><td>'''[[Protocols/Communication]]'''</td><td>An in-depth look at how light controllers, computers, and other devices communicate in a light show setup.</td></tr><br />
<br />
</table><br />
<br />
== ''Other areas of DoItYourselfChristmas'' ==<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com Home Page]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/index.php Forum]<br />
*[http://www.christmasinshirley.com/forum/album.php Photo Album]<br />
*[http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/forums/chat/flashchat.php Chatroom]<br />
<br />
== ''Editing the ChristmasWiki''==<br />
If you do decide to make a contribution, please follow the format that is currently being utilized. Your article should have its own page and be linked to from the most appropriate category page.<br /><br />
<br />
When uploading images, please try to keep them sized at 200px x 150px, or smaller/larger depending on how it will be used.<br /><br />
<br />
Please use Section Headers (with equals signs) to divide the content on your pages. This allows a Table of Contents to be generated and also makes the article easier to read.<br /><br />
<br />
''The below links do not point to any content on this site. They point to the MediaWiki support pages.''<br />
<br />
* Consult the [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents User's Guide] for information on using the wiki software.<br />
* [http://www.mediawiki.org/wiki/Help:FAQ MediaWiki FAQ]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2699Protocols2009-06-17T02:47:49Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overview of the protocol to details about the inner workings of the protocols. <br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2698Protocols2009-06-17T02:46:44Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overview of the protocol to very details about the inner workings of the protocols. <br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ArtNet]] (Future)<br />
<br />
[[ACN]] (Future)</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=Protocols&diff=2697Protocols2009-06-17T02:45:36Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>This is the page to contribute content about the protocols used to run your displays. This are will provide information ranging from a general overview of the protocol to very details about the inner workings of the protocols. <br />
<br />
[[DMX]] -- Information about DMX and the Vixen DMX plug-in<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS232]]<br />
<br />
[[Serial, RS485]] <br />
<br />
[[Ethernet]]<br />
<br />
[[ACN]]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=2696DMX2009-06-17T02:43:46Z<p>DynamoBen: </p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Speed: 250kbit/sec<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen one part is the DMX Add-in the other is the DMX-512 plug-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This is due to the fact that Vixen automatically converts a percentage (such as 50% brightness) to the DMX equivalent (in this case 50% brightness means a DMX value of 128), but some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
<br />
The DMX add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose, it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
<br />
As a rule of thumb, always enable the DMX add-in.<br />
<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=132 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=2162DMX2008-11-11T04:45:22Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Notes about Connectors and Cables */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
In addition some manufacturers swap Data Minus and Data Plus on the 3-pin XLR connector. Refer to the user manual for the proper pinout for dimmer pack.<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen one part is the DMX Add-in the other is the DMX-512 plug-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This is due to the fact that Vixen automatically converts a percentage (such as 50% brightness) to the DMX equivalent (in this case 50% brightness means a DMX value of 128), but some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
<br />
The DMX add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose, it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
<br />
As a rule of thumb, always enable the DMX add-in.<br />
<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=132 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=2161DMX2008-11-11T04:43:28Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Connecting Devices */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refers to a DIY project that can be found [http://www.response-box.com/rgblights/index.shtml here].<br />
<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
<br />
There are a couple of manufacturers that swap Data Minus and Plus on their 3-pin XLR connectors on their devices. Check the user manual for the DMX pinout for dimmer pack you are using. <br />
<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen one part is the DMX Add-in the other is the DMX-512 plug-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This is due to the fact that Vixen automatically converts a percentage (such as 50% brightness) to the DMX equivalent (in this case 50% brightness means a DMX value of 128), but some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
<br />
The DMX add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose, it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
<br />
As a rule of thumb, always enable the DMX add-in.<br />
<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=132 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=2160DMX2008-11-11T04:41:55Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Connecting Devices */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
NOTE: "Pixels" in the table refer to a DIY project that can be found in the DMX forum.<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
<br />
There are a couple of manufacturers that swap Data Minus and Plus on their 3-pin XLR connectors on their devices. Check the user manual for the DMX pinout for dimmer pack you are using. <br />
<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen one part is the DMX Add-in the other is the DMX-512 plug-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
<br />
Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This is due to the fact that Vixen automatically converts a percentage (such as 50% brightness) to the DMX equivalent (in this case 50% brightness means a DMX value of 128), but some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
<br />
<br />
The DMX add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose, it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
<br />
<br />
As a rule of thumb, always enable the DMX add-in.<br />
<br />
<br />
===Start Programming===<br />
<br />
That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
<br />
<br />
==Going Beyond==<br />
<br />
If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
<br />
<br />
The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
<br />
<br />
To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
<br />
<br />
Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
<br />
<br />
A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Links==<br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=132 DMX for Dummies]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
<br />
[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
<br />
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
<br />
[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBenhttp://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/wiki/index.php?title=DMX&diff=2159DMX2008-11-11T04:41:04Z<p>DynamoBen: /* Connecting Devices */</p>
<hr />
<div>If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option. You can purchase off-the-shelf ready-to-use dimmers that are controlled by DMX. With Vixen's DMX plug-in creating a display is as easy as buying DMX controlled dimmers from a local music store, and plugging in a USB-to-DMX dongle to your PC. Now you have a complete system ready to be programmed and impress your neighbors.<br />
<br />
<br />
==What is DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX (Digital Multiplexing) is a communications protocol created by the theatrical lighting industry to control stage lighting. DMX controls everything from dimmers to moving lights and has been the standard for lighting control for over two decades. <br />
<br />
[http://www.dovesystems.com/index2.php?option=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=30 DMX for Dummies is a must read if you are new to DMX]<br />
<br />
<br />
==Why DMX?==<br />
<br />
DMX is very robust and stable in harsh environments. DMX also allows you to control 512 dimmable channels and up to 32 devices all from one cable.<br />
<br />
In addition, because DMX is sent via RS-485/422 hardware it can travel up to 1500 meters (~4921 feet). Finally, because DMX is the worldwide lighting communications standard you can purchase any brand of DMX dimmers, connect them and be dimming within minutes. <br />
<br />
"Dimmers" are a type of control box that allows a person to plug in multiple lights (or strings of lights) and control their intensity using DMX. Each dimmer normally supports four separate channels, each channel capable of being set to a certain brightness.<br />
<br />
In addition to dimmers, DMX is a great option if you want to have other lighting effects in your display. DMX can be used to control DMX-capable moving lights, color changers, lasers, LED light bars and spot lights, fog machines, snow machines, and more.<br />
<br />
==Where can I get DMX controlled equipment?==<br />
===Buying===<br />
<br />
Because DMX has been around so long DMX controlled devices can be purchased through a number of different local and online sources. Locally most music stores sell DMX dimmers and effects to bands and DJ's. [http://www.guitarcenter.com Guitar Center] is an example of a national chain that sells inexpensive dimmers and effects. In addition, most major cities have theatrical supply dealers that sell dimmers and effects. Generally, the products they carry are of a higher quality and will be more expensive. As for online sources, [http://www.ebay.com EBay] is an excellent source for used DMX equipment. <br />
<br />
NOTE: When shopping for equipment make sure it can be controlled by DMX. There are a number of manufacturers that use their own proprietary protocol and require converters to gain DMX control.<br />
<br />
===Renting===<br />
<br />
You don’t have to buy equipment. Because DMX is a standard protocol in the theater industry, you can actually rent equipment. A theatrical rental house will rent dimmers, moving lights, cables, fixtures, and other effects at a weekly rate. Check your yellow pages.<br />
<br />
<br />
NOTE: The theater industry uses different style of power connector called stage-pin. Your home and Christmas lights have what is called an Edison connector. Also higher channel count dimmers (usually 12 and above) generally have what’s called cam-locs for power inputs. These dimmers are generally hardwired into an electrical service panel with "tails." Keep these things in mind if you rent dimmers or fixtures!<br />
<br />
==Specifications==<br />
<br />
Channels:512 (all dimmable)<br />
<br />
Devices:32<br />
<br />
Topology: daisy chain<br />
<br />
Transmission: RS-485/422<br />
<br />
Distance: 1500 meters (~4921 feet)<br />
<br />
Connector: 5-pin or 3-pin XLR<br />
<br />
Pinout: 1-Common, 2-Data Minus, 3-Data Plus, 4-Not Connected, 5-Not Connected<br />
<br />
==Setup==<br />
===Connecting Devices===<br />
<br />
DMX connects devices to each other via a daisy-chain topology, which means that each new device is connected to the last in one long chain (also called a universe). A device can be anything from a dimmer pack to a moving light as long as it can receive DMX. For this article we will assume the device is a dimmer pack (dimmer). <br />
<br />
<br />
Generally, there is a DMX-In and a DMX-Out on each dimmer. The DMX-Out from the previous dimmer connects to the DMX-In of the new dimmer. You can chain a maximum of 32 dimmers together on one run (universe). The DMX standard dictates that all DMX output connectors should be female XLRs and all input connectors should be male XLRs. While not part of the DMX standard some DIY and permanent installation equipment uses RJ45 connectors.<br />
<br />
These are the typical and most common pin-outs.<br />
<br />
<br />
[[Image:DMX pinsRev2.gif]]<br />
<br />
At the last dimmer, a terminator needs to be connected to the output XLR. This terminator eliminates any electrical reflections on the line that may cause your dimmers to flicker or act unreliably. A terminator is just a male XLR with a 120-ohm resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3. You can purchase them preassembled or make one yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
[http://www.dmx512.com/web/light/dmx512/diy/term/term.htm 5-pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://people.bath.ac.uk/su2bc/infoguides/lighting/dmx/dmxcabling.shtml 3-Pin DIY terminator]<br />
<br />
[http://www.dfd.com/dmxbasic.html DMX Cabling Basics]<br />
<br />
===Notes about Connectors and Cables===<br />
<br />
While many of the inexpensive dimmers use a 3-pin XLR, using a mic cable to connect your dimmers together is ''highly'' discouraged. Mic cables have electrical properties that are great for audio transmission but damage the DMX data transmission. Always purchase cable specifically designed for DMX, while it is more expensive it will ensure reliable communications between your dimmers. <br />
<br />
<br />
There are a couple of manufacturers that swap Data Minus and Plus on their 3-pin XLR connectors on their devices. Check the user manual for the DMX pinout for dimmer pack you are using. <br />
<br />
<br />
===Addressing Devices===<br />
<br />
Once of the dimmers are connected to one another they need to be addressed. All dimmers come with some capacity to specify a starting address. Because dimmers are “listening” to DMX they need to know what DMX values to listen for. The starting address tells the dimmer to start listening to a specific series of values. <br />
<br />
<br />
The starting address is usually set sequentially from one device to the next. For example, the first dimmer in your chain would be assigned starting address 1. If that dimmer had 4 channels then the second dimmer would have a starting address of 5 and so on. While numbering sequentially is convenient it is not required. In fact you can give any dimmer any starting address you choose. This is handy when you have two dimmers in different physical locations but want to control them as if they are one. For example, you have a long string of rope lights but you have them plugged into two different 4-channel dimmers. What you want to happen is when you turn on channel 1 you want channel 1 on both dimmers to turn on, making it look like one continuous string. Easy, make the starting address of both dimmers 1. Then when channels 1-4 are controlled both dimmers will respond in the same way. <br />
<br />
<br />
Starting addresses are assigned by several methods. Most dimmers have address wheels or dipswitches. Address wheels are easy to use; if you want a starting address of 1 you set the wheels to “001.” However most inexpensive dimmers use dipswitches. Dipswitches are a little more difficult because each switch represents a binary value. See the owner’s manual or side of the dimmer for details on how to set the switches. <br />
<br />
<br />
===DMX output===<br />
<br />
Once you have connected and addressed all your dimmers you are ready to send DMX to them. We are going to assume that you are using Vixen for this article. Vixen currently supports DMX out via a USB-to-DMX dongle. Currently Vixen supports the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?menu=Products&prod=70303&show=description&name=opendmxusb Open DMX USB Interface] and the [http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70304&show=description&name=dmxusbpro USB DMX PRO]. There are three different ways to obtain these devices. The first way is by purchasing them fully assembled from Enttec or via Ebay. <br />
<br />
<br />
For the do it yourselfer you can purchase just a bare PCB from Enttec for the Open, order the parts from an electronics reseller, and assemble the device yourself. Or you can obtain the parts, create the PCB, and assemble it yourself based with the schematic provided by Enttec on their website in downloads. While buying the PCB from Enttec may be convenient you need to be sure that, you are capable of soldering fine-pitch surface mount chips. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you are not comfortable with that level of soldering then your final option is to create one yourself from Enttec’s schematic. To make this process easier I suggest you purchase [http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/usb232.shtml DLP-USB232M USB Adapter] from DLP Design. This eliminates all the fine pitch soldering; all that needs to be added at that point is the 75176 transceiver, some resistors, and a LED. (basically all the DMX specific circuitry) NOTE: The author of this article chose this method and it works well. <br />
<br />
<br />
Once the dongle has arrived or is complete, you need to install the [http://www.enttec.com/dmx_usb/d2xx_setup.exe FTDI drivers] prior to using it with Vixen.<br />
<br />
===Vixen Setup===<br />
<br />
Once the device is connected and the driver has been installed you can set Vixen up to output DMX to your dimmers. There are two parts to DMX transmission in Vixen one part is the DMX Add-in the other is the DMX-512 plug-in. The plug-in is the same as any other plug-in when using vixen. It needs to be added to the sequence and/or program you have created for the values to be sent to the dimmers. <br />
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Each channel in Vixen represents a channel in the DMX universe. Each channel on Vixen can vary from 0-100% intensity, which then controls the brightness of the lights connected to the DMX dimmer at that individual channel. If you wish to more precisely control the intensity of the lights, or if you want to use intelligent lighting fixtures or other effects such as lasers, you may wish to switch Vixen to the "actual intensity levels" mode instead of percentage mode by clicking the # button on the toolbar (available in Vixen 2.0 and up). This is due to the fact that Vixen automatically converts a percentage (such as 50% brightness) to the DMX equivalent (in this case 50% brightness means a DMX value of 128), but some DMX fixtures need precise values, not an estimated value based on percentage. (For example, a DMX color changer may need an actual value of 1 to make red, 2 to make green, and 3 to make blue. It is necessary to use actual values, because the percentages will not match up, therefore making it impossible to accurately control the color.)<br />
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The DMX add-in (not plug-in) has a different purpose, it is used to start and stop streaming DMX when Vixen is opened or closed. This streaming option can be found under ADD-INS, DMX. This add-in exists because DMX by design is a streaming protocol. DMX devices expect to see information streamed to them all the times, if they loss the stream they will automatically turn off. While this may not be an issue when creating or testing sequences, it becomes a major issue when running a program with multiple sequences. If this add-in is not enabled you will see a noticeable flicker between sequences within in your program. This is because DMX does not stream between sequences with this plug-in disabled. <br />
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As a rule of thumb, always enable the DMX add-in.<br />
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===Start Programming===<br />
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That’s it, you are now controlling your DMX dimmers, snow machines, strobes, and more, all via Vixen. Happy DMXing! <br />
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==Going Beyond==<br />
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If you do the math based on my above example you will notice that if you adhere to the 32 device limit and use 4-channel dimmers you can only get 128 channels total. There is a way around this issue.<br />
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The 32 device limit is not a DMX limitation it is a limitation of the RS-485 transceivers. The older 75176 set a limit of 32 devices because beyond that point the data traveling down the line would start to deteriorate. Newer transceivers have published a limit of 128 devices. While this does solve the problem, most manufacturers use the older 75176.<br />
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To get around this hardware limit you need to introduce another piece of equipment. It is called an opto-splitter (also called repeater, splitter, booster); this device takes a single DMX-in and retransmits it to multiple DMX-outs (like a network hub). Let’s assume the opto-splitter has 5 DMX-outs. Each output of the opto-splitter can have up to 32 devices connected that’s a total of 160 devices all controlled from the same DMX source. <br />
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Opto-splitters have a second purpose; they allow you to send DMX to different locations. Let’s assume you have dimmers in the yard and dimmers on your roof. You could daisy chain all of them together or you could use an opto-splitter. Then you would have one DMX run going to the yard and all the yard dimmers would be daisy chained together. A second DMX run would go to the roof and all of those dimmers would be daisy chained together. Opto-splitters are available from any theatrical supplier; you won’t find them at your local music store. This is somewhat of a specialty item because most bands and DJs don’t generally go beyond the 32 device limit or need multiple runs of DMX from a single source. However, in a theater you regularly go beyond the 32 device limit or need DMX in different locations in the facility. <br />
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A new opto-splitter is extremely expensive! A one-in five-out splitter will cost about $800. However, they are inexpensive to make about $10-30 worth of parts. Whether you purchase or build, a good opto-splitter needs to have a couple of things. All of the outputs should be electrically isolated from the input and from each other via optical couplers. You also want to make sure that each output has its own transceiver and power supply. These things will protect your expensive equipment from electrical damage. <br />
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[http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dmxsplitter_fix.shtml Premade inexpensive opto-splitter]<br />
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==Fun Stuff Controlled by DMX==<br />
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[http://www.dfd.com/fun.html Doug Fleenor Design]<br />
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==Links==<br />
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[http://www.dovesystems.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=30&Itemid=132 DMX for Dummies]<br />
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Multiplex DMX from Wikipedia]<br />
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[http://www.dfd.com/whyterm.html Why terminate?]<br />
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[http://www.dfd.com/primer.html DMX-512 Primer (good read)]<br />
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[http://www.dmx512-online.com Ujjal's DMX512 Website]<br />
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[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Protocol/Packet information]<br />
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[http://www.epanorama.net/links/lights.html Tons of Lighting links!]<br />
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[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatre_lighting Basics of Stage Lighting]<br />
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[http://www.erwinrol.com/index.php?stagecraft/dmx.php DMX Packet and Timing]</div>DynamoBen