A little guide on DMX lighting control

[Designer]

DMX 512 – The basics

Life before DMX

Before DMX the only realistic control method was 0-10V control which is fine for controlling dimmer packs only, but has its drawbacks. Massive multi-core cables and complex wiring as 0-10V needs a wire for each channel, limitations to usage as control of large installations would require a huge lighting desk and 0-10V control is very prone to interference from power cables (par cans flickering unintentionally), although this is still a good system and is still used to date. Then as digital electronics became more widespread a system called DMX (Digital MultipleX) was thought about utilising only shielded twisted-pair cable to carry the digital control signals. USITT (US Institute for Theatre Technology) developed the DMX protocol primarily for dimmer control in 1986 and manufacturers started to adopt the DMX protocol which was formalised as DMX512 in 1990.

The great advantage

The biggest advantage is noticed in larger fixed installations, with effects lighting normally you've just got to turn the power on and off, which in a large installation would be impractical as all the power wiring has to run back to the booth and through a large switch-pack, with DMX the power can just be wired up to breakers in a power room and just the DMX cable(s) run back to the booth to the controller. All users find the system puts them in more control of the lightshow as you can design it yourself and tailor it to be exactly what you want.


What is DMX?


DMX512 allows control of up to 512 channels per DMX universe over a maximum of 32 fixtures/units per universe, each channel can be assigned a value of 0 to 255. A controller such as a dedicated controller or a PC-based controller is used to generate the DMX control signals, which are transmitted over shielded twisted-pair cable to the lighting fixtures, effects and dimmer packs.


Where can it be used?

DMX control can be used for any fixtures, dimmer pack, effects etc that will respond to DMX protocol. There are certain applications where DMX cannot be used, these obviously depend on local regulations and requirements but normally DMX is prohibited from controlling pyrotechnic effects, moving stage sets, truss movement equipment and basically anything else that could endanger human or animal safety by DMX control malfunction.

How DMX works

The DMX controller constantly transmits data on the cable, each universe can have up to 512 channels and each individual channel can be assigned a value of 0 to 255. The values for all channels are constantly transmitted, I won't go in-depth about the DMX data packet but post if you wan't me to and i'll add it. Each fixture connected to the DMX universe has to have an address or address range set to respond to DMX control. For every fixture used independent addresses have to be assigned usually by DIP switches on the end of the fixture or by in-built menus on an LCD display (becoming more common).
Lets take for example we have 4 fixtures using 6 DMX channels each. The 1st fixture will have to occupy 6 channels and the next fixture will use the next available 6 channels etc. Therefore if we start from address 1 then

Fixture 1……………assigned channel 1 occupies channels 1 to 6
Fixture 2……………assigned channel 7 occupies channels 7 to 12
Fixture 3……………assigned channel 13 occupies channels 13 to 18
Fixture 4……………assigned channel 19 occupies channels 19 to 24

When the fixtures are assigned correctly they will normally respond to DMX data on their assigned channels only and other channels will be ignored, this also means that a group of identical fixtures like say 2 scanners can be assigned to the same channels and will receive the same data therefore do the same thing.
To put it simply to work out the next address you add 1 on to the number of channels used by the previous fixture in the DMX universe.


How many DMX channels do fixtures use?

As fixtures become more advanced they tend to require more DMX channels to control them, like older fixtures needed only around 4 channels for pan, tilt, colour and gobo. Nowadays it's quite common to have other aspects DMX controlled such as shutter, dimmer, prism, frosting, gobo rotation direction and speed, double colour wheels or mixers, lamp striking for discharge lamps, gobo shaking, operation mode selection and fixture resetting.
The number of channels used is what dictates the addressing of your fixtures.


Cabling and system design

Wiring a DMX system is normally quite straightforward. The cables are made up from (normally) a 3 pin male XLR connector on one end and a female on the other, the wiring should be screened twisted-pair cable. The cables are wired straight-through.

Male Female

Pin 1 (screen/GND)-------------------------Pin 1 (screen/GND)
Pin 2 (data -)----------------------------------Pin 2 (data -)
Pin 3 (data +)---------------------------------Pin 3 (data +)

Data + can also be referred to as Hot and data – as Cold.
Do not connect pin 1 to the body of the connector as you'll make a ground loop and add interference.
5 Pin DMX cables are also quite common and normally pins 4&5 are not connected to anything, but if required are commonly wired straight through (pin 4 to 4 and 5 to 5). Check the manuals for your controller and fixtures for correct connections as sometimes these vary like 2/3 reversed etc.

Like all data transmission networks the DMX cable needs to be terminated to cancel out the DMX data at the end otherwise it may reflect back. A lot of fixtures have internal terminators that can be switched on by the DIP switch or menu. If the last fixture doesn’t have a built in terminator you can make one quite easily by soldering a resistor (normally 120 ohm .25watt) between pins 2 and 3 (data +/-) on a male XLR connector and plugging it into the DMX out on the last fixture on the universe.


Control methods

There are many controllers available but normally they fall into two categories, dedicated lighting controllers and PC-based control of which the latter is the most versatile. Normally dedicated controllers have a limited amount of memory for recording steps and PC-controllers are normally only limited by the amount of disk-space available. It’s becoming common for dedicated controllers to have either memory card slots or floppy disk drives fitted to store additional lighting sequences. The only real drawback of PC control is the price of the interface plus the cost of the PC.

Sequences are normally "taught" to the controller, this normally entails moving intelligent fixtures to the positions you want them in using a joystick/dials/mouse and setting colour/gobo/shutter/effect etc and then recording the step. This is repeated for all the steps in the sequence. Normally the controller will automatically loop the sequence so it repeats, always remember this otherwise undesired movements may occur as the sequence loops and moves to the 1st step. Quick tip - If your controller is capable of running multiple sequences then why not teach separate sequences controlling colour, gobo, shutter etc with different step-times or numbers of steps to the movement sequences. That way you've only got to teach movement sequences and can re-use the others, also as the steptimes are different the sequence will appear random meaning movements are not linked to colours and gobo's etc.

Common problems

Run your DMX cables as far away from power cables as possible and make runs between fixtures as short as possible, otherwise interference can be picked up and cause erratic behaviour of fixtures from corruption of DMX data. Make sure the DMX cable is properly terminated otherwise this may have the same effect.

Don’t connect the power for intelligent lighting or your controller to the same power source as large amps or dimmer packs. It can be quite common for all your intelligent fixtures to reset themselves when a heavy bassline kicks in or some large dimmer packs fire all channels at 100%.

Buy a good quality handheld DMX tester for larger installation testing, LightPuter make quite a good one. Invaluable for faultfinding as normally you can check the integrity of your signal cabling, check that correctly formatted DMX data is being transmitted and you can transmit DMX levels to certain channels to check the operation of your fixtures.

Keep your fixtures well maintained and clean your DMX connector pins on the fixtures/controller and cables with a mildly abrasive fibreglass contact cleaning pencil to ensure good connections dont let you down, replace your lamps at regular intervals as nothing looks worse than lights moving around with no illumination.


NEVER borrow an XLR mic lead from a sound bloke to substitue a DMX lead, mic cables are shielded but dont have a twisted pair, they'll pick up interference quite badly and the results will be terrible. DMX cable has to be twisted pair as it will always pick up some interference but as it's twisted the interference will affect both cable cores and will not actually alter the data therefore the system will still operate correctly.

I wrote this a little while back and hope this will help some of you with your lighting problems and questions, thanks for reading it and sorry but I won't be held responsible for the accuracy of this info although i've made every effort to ensure it's good.

Designer

[DJNaviss]

Good stuff to read, And I also read that website, You sent me via E-mail.
Thank you very much!

Lets take for example we are using 4 fixtures using 6 DMX channels each fixture will automatically respond to the channels including and following the assigned address, therefore if we start from address 1 then

Fixture 1……………assigned channel 1 occupies channels 1 to 6
Fixture 2……………assigned channel 7 occupies channels 7 to 12
Fixture 3……………assigned channel 13 occupies channels 13 to 18
Fixture 4……………assigned channel 19 occupies channels 19 to 24

Question...
"Lets take for example we are using 4 fixtures using 6 DMX channels "
Do they all have 6 DMX Channel's? I mean, Why do we need 6 DMX Channel's, For only four unit's?

Your jumping with the fixture channel number's with it? But what does that mean?
That one unit will have the address of 1,2,3,4,5,6? And what is the meaning of it?

[Designer]

A fixture will commonly use 4 or more channels of DMX per fixture with one channel being colour control, another for gobo, another for mirror pan control and another for tilt, that way you've got full control of all the fixtures features from independant channels on your controller.

Say for example were using some fixtures that require 4 channels each for operation, the starting DMX address for your first fixture will be 1, as the fixture uses 4 channels (to control pan/tilt/colour/gobo) it will use channels 1,2,3,4 so the next fixture will have to be assigned to channel 5 (that would be the next un-used channel)and will use 5,6,7,8 and so on. You have to jump channels as the assigned channel is the starting number and you have to add on the total number of channels used by the fixture used to find the next address available.

The amount of channels a fixture uses varies because of the amount of features the fixture may have and each feature may/will require a DMX channel for control. Typical example are some Martin lights like the roboscan518 where the channels are used as follows:

1...........Shutter control (values between 0 and 255 give % of speed control)
2...........Dimmer control (0 being closed and 255 fully open, in between gives % control)
3...........Colour control (value 0=white, 9=pink, 18=magenta etc.)
4...........Gobo control
5...........Prism effect
6...........Pan (0= 0 degrees mirror position, 255=120degrees (full movement of that fixtures mirror))
7...........Tilt (like above)

Changing the value on a channel is what controls the feature of the fixture that the channel controls fo for example if DMX channel 4 controls tilt on a scanner that's capable of 90 degrees tilt then setting a value between 0 and 255 gives a mirror angle between 0 and 90 degrees, therefore a value of 127 gives a mirror position of 45 degrees.

It's quite common for some advanced fixtures to use upto 16 DMX channels each.

[DJNaviss]

Oh, Ok... I think I understand now.. Somewhat anyway..

Hint's why there is 512 CH's... Wondered why so damn many..

So, How do you set the unit's address? Like on the dip switch's click down 1,2,3,4,5,6 or however CH's it need's?


And how you do tell the light what to do? You don't got to give it like way point's by like number's do you?

Like give it a number to more to the left or right etc.

[Designer]

When you teach a mirror position on your controller and a step time then the controller will take care of the numbers. What it does is if you tell the controller you want a smooth movement to a position taking 1 second and you move the lights to the new position and teach it into the sequence then when you replay the sequence the controller will automatically determine the current value of the channel, and the controller knows how often it transmits the data, so for example we'll say it transmits 10 times per second (obviously it's much faster really). Then say the movement entails making a full sweep of the tilt mirror (from 0 to 90 degrees or values 0 -255 on the channel) the controller will automatically divide the total numerical change by the time and will transmit the intermediate data which in the example would be to increment by 25.5 over 10 transmissions (actually rounds it) to give a visibly smooth movement. The controller will do all this in the background so all you'll see is the light move to the position in the time you told it to smoothly.

Setting the address is quite easy, if your fixtures have dipswitches then they have to be set in binary

You'll see a row of 10 little switches labelled 1-10

Switch 1 has a value of 1
Switch 2 has a value of 2
Switch 3 has a value of 4
Switch 4 has a value of 8
Switch 5 has a value of 16
Switch 6 has a value of 32
Switch 7 has a value of 64
Switch 8 has a value of 128
Switch 9 has a value of 256
(sometimes the switches are reversed so 9 has a value of 1 and 1 has a value of 256 etc.)

So for example if we want to set the address at 45 then you will need to set:

9=off, 8=off, 7=off, 6=on, 5=off, 4=on, 3=on, 2=off, 1=on

0 + 0 + 0 + 32 + 0 + 8 + 4 + 0 + 1 = 45

I know thats a bit confusing but all you've gotta do is work out the address you want then use the info above to calculate the switch settings. You'll have to check with the fixture manual for the exact assignment of the switches as there is no set standard for this but generally the manufacturers go with the method above for switch configuration.

I'm currently writing something to give a better explanation of DMX, post it soon.


You could try downloading the sweetlight controller software from www.sweetlight-controller.com install it and have a play, it's got a visualiser so you can see the sequences you've written, just open the fixture list and assign a few fixtures, go into builder and make a scene, click the 3d button and you can watch the scenes running in 3d.

Hope this helps

[DJNaviss]

Wow, You've been a major help! And a great member of this community!

I gave you rep point's. Eh, Don't ask me what they are for or do, All I know is, They something good. :spin:

Can't wait to read your next DMX article!! :smash:

I think I'm starting to understand this! By the time I get ready to buy a DMX controller, I'll know how most everything work's and how to use it.
Now only if it was like that when I got my turntable's! :banghead:

[Designer]

Thankyou DJNaviss, very kind of you to say so.

I just understand how confusing this subject can be, it confused me a few years back. I just thought I'd try and save everyone some real headaches trying to get to grips with it.

[Stripe]

:tup: great guide. If you would like I can turn it into an article submission or tutorial.

[Designer]

That would be great if you would Stripe, thankyou.

I'm currently working on part 2 for it and another one on lightshow programming tips&tricks.

[Stripe]

:tup:

http://www.djforums.com/tutorials/dmx512basics.php

[Designer]

Wow, my little article's been published in the tutorials.

Nice one guys/gals

Thankyou

[Just J]

:tup:

[Vriess]

Nice, now write an advanced guide for us :P

I am very interested in learning dmx control. Any more guides/tutorials will be greatly appreciated :)

[Designer]

I've just posted part 2 Vriess,

It's about the real nitty-gritty of DMX. Kind of like a look under-the-hood so to speak.

Covers the DMX data packets and the electronics involved and a good cable guide for if anyone wants to have a go at making their own DMX leads.

Understanding the way the system actually works makes faultfinding a bit easier, coz everone then knows what's actually going on rather than knowing it's just 1's and 0's going down a cable. In fact that's the sort of stuff you might need to interpret when faultfinding a large installation with a handheld DMX tester.

Hope this help's everone out a bit

[Vriess]

Nice on on the second tutorial bro!

I downloaded the martin lightjockey program and fucked around with it for a bit but that shit is uber confusing without a manual or nothing. Know of any sites with help for this program? How well does it really simulate the scene when you view it?

Thanks man

[Designer]

Thanks Vriess

You could look on the Martin forum for lightjockey help

http://www.martin.com/forum/

Whe I downloaded it I just clicked on help and printed everything, it's a bit easier to take in when it's on paper in front of you to read while you got the program running.

[MarcSuarez]

hey designer i got a question on connecting a laser up to dmx, i recently purchased the chauvet lg 60 scorpion scan

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b262/MarcSuarez/scor_scan.jpg

•10mW, 7-channel DMX-controlled green laser
• FAT BEAM™ laser technology produces 10-14mm beams, which complies with IEC safety standards under ClassIIIR
• 51 dynamic patterns, 52 static patterns, laser off & sound-active mode
-Scan and speed adjustments yield 500 laser effects
- 74 patterns in sound-active mode
-52 patterns in auto mode
• Pan: 66°; Tilt:47°
• Dynamic scan speed adjust
• Dynamic pattern speed adjust
• Static pattern size adjust
• Laser on/off
• Operating modes: auto, sound active, master/slave & DMX
• Safety cover for scanner mirrors
• Sound sensitivity control
• Stand alone via DMX
• Scanning (micro-stepping) motors
• Rugged construction
• Fan cooled
• Laser: 532nm/10mW DPSS YVO4 green laser module
• NO VARIANCE REQUIRED
• Current draw: (peak 25W @ 120V), (25W @230V)
• Power: Switchable 110V/230V or 230V/240V
• Weight: 9.5lbs (4.31kgs)
• Size: 10.08in x 10.63in x 5.12in (256mm x 270mm x 130mm)

and an elation dmx solo
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b262/MarcSuarez/DMX-SOLO.jpg

FEATURES:
• 96 DMX channels
• Blank Mini DMX Recorder, Store up to 8 pre-programs & 8 Strobe programs
• 9 chase programs & a AP program
• 9 strobe programs & a AS program
• Each chase/strobe program can record a maximum of 48 scenes
• Either AS or AP program can record a maximum of 60 scenes
• Each AS or AP scene enables to has its individual speed or fade time
• Auto/Audio/Manual chase of programs
• A continuous cycle of Manual or Auto programs
• Access the scenes from any DMX controller
• All data can be swapped between two or more units
• Built-in microphone for Music triggering
• DMX polarity select
• Power failure memory
• New programs can be created using the Show Designer for other DMX Products

now my question is can i manually controll the laser beam or is does this dmx controller just have programmed effects! i want to be able to control and record the beam manually

[Designer]

OK, downloaded the PDF manual from www.chauvetlighting.com and here's what the DMX channels control:

1. Mode
2. Pattern selection
3. X position
4. Y Position
5. Scan speed
6. Dynamic pattern select
7. Static pattern size

I dont think you can control the actual pattern that is generated but you can control the movement of the pattern, its movement speed and size so looks like you'd be stuck with the inbuilt patterns unfortunately.

[MarcSuarez]

crap, lol i think ima take it back and get the elation dmx partner i see a joystick on there and im assuming i can control the x position and y position with that but, i could be wrong, what u think? or better yet, what what dmx controller whould you use for a single laser?

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b262/MarcSuarez/DMX-PARTNER-RT.jpg
www.elationlighting.com

[Designer]

Either wouldn control it OK but i think personally for X + Y positioning you're better off using a joystick as its a little easier to work with.

I'll have to be honest and say i've never used lasers under DMX control before so I cant really recommend a good controller, one that is probably quite well suited though is the Chauvet DMX50 or equivalent.

[MarcSuarez]

sweet man, thanks for all your help and time!

[cchhcc]

I'm completely new to DMX lighting but my question is, if I have several lights with DMX capability and I have a DMX controller, how do I connect them all to the controller? Would I just buy one of those 8 channel on/off power switch controllers and link them all together?

[Designer]

All you have to do is connect the DMX out connector from the controller to the DMX in connector on the 1st fixture, then the DMX out from the 1st fixture to the DMX in on the second fixture and so on and so on, but you need to set the fixture address switches so the controller can talk to them individually

[trixproxima]

I have been looking ages and ages for a descent explanation on how DMX works, and until i have read your posts, i have been totally confused but now i totally understand. All the other explanations on the web are not as informative as yours, and i would just like to say thank you for taking the time to do it for cluesess people like me lol. once again your a star cheers. trix:bing:

[Designer]

Thanks :) Glad ya found it useful

[djryano]

ok so i got a 24 channel controller. i got 2 chauvet intimidator lights hooked up to it for now. while i learn how to run them. i have 3 others i will be hooking up later on .but i got these 2 lights hooked up and i got dipswitch 1 and 2 on on the first lgiht witch would be channel 3 i believe. and the secong one i got dipswitch 5 witch would be channel 16 on the controller. these are a 4 channel ligt so how would i get all 4 channels to work also they way i have it now .one light is moving really fast and the other one is going slow .is this just in the program or what ?
thanks

[Designer]

What controller are you using? that way hopefully i ca get hold of a manual and let you know :)

[djryano]

i got a chauvet 24 channel

[Designer]

http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixture_tables/dmx.shtml

Which model is it as each different model will possibly require different settings for the fixtures?

Also are the intimidators version 1.0, 1.2 or 2.0?

[Gregv12]

OHHH - i have a good question, i think.....

i have 4, 5chanel scanners , a couple dimmer packs for static par cans - and a few LED pars - all DMX..........
I'm looking for a reasonable controller that can be setup w simple scenes and nice smooth scanner movements. From what i've seen - the easiest way to hae such flexability is with using a PC based interface.....BUT......it's a small mobil rig, and i really don't want to lug around a laptop.....
I'm lookin at two controlers now - The Chauvet Tiger, and the Elation Magic 260.....Right now - the Tiger is on SUPER special low pricing at MusiciansFriend, so i'm very tempted to give it a try.......

Does anyone ave any experience w smooth motion stand-alone controlers, or with either of the two i've mentioned?

[Designer]

Just looked at the Tiger, that should be capable of controlling everything ok. If you're visiting a store t buy this, i'd definately recommend getting a demo of it in-store before you buy fo 2 reasons 1. to ensure that it is capable of smooth transitions betwen scenes and 2. too see how complex it is to actually set up and program. One thing i've often found is even if you spend a day at a venue beforehand setting up a lightshow something will always need tweeking at the last minute and you'll want to be able to do that quickly and easily.

The disadvantage with some controllers (Chauvet ShowXpress/Sweetlight PC controller included) is that if no scene is acivated all DMX channels are driven to 0, meaning that your scanner mirrors will all reposition to their 0 positions and often results in a rapid movement if a scene is then selected so its worth checking that this isnt the case before purchasing that controller otherwise it can make programming smooth scene transitions difficult.

Hope this helps

[DJITALIANHEAT]

does any one have any familarisation with the PCDJ Lighting control software? If so what hardware, besides dmx lighting, am I required to purchace to enable myself to use this software, please keep in mind this would be my first DMX lighting purchace, i plan on buying two DMX LED, moonflowers, and the PCDJ control. Another question I have is, is it worth it for me to spend over 400$ on a controller if I only have 2 DMX, keep in minded my rig will be expanding. Also keep in mind I run Virtual DJ, so would it slow my PC down.

[Mystic]

Don't use a software controller on the same computer you do your audio on.

Which moonflower are you using? If it's the Vue, it doesn't even need a control. In fact, it's better without one if you don't know how to program it. And something like the vue takes a bit of know how to program. In any event, it works great on sound activated mode. Just daisy chain them with a DMX cable (Not an XLR cable) and they should work great together.

[DJITALIANHEAT]

alrite mystic i appreciate the advice.
another question i do have is once i become more farmilar with DMX, and start using more DMX which would you recomend hardware controller, or software controller?

[ncutler]

Hardware vs. Software controllers

http://www.djforums.com/showthread.php?t=106668

[Designer]

I'd perdonally recommend software based controllers. There are normally less limitations with software based controllers such as re-using certain portions of scenes, and cutting and pasting bits of scenes together saves a large amount of programming time.

[delcheetah]

Hi-
I'm new to the lighting game, so maybe i'm just being an idiot, but here's my problem:

I'm running several Chauvet LED techno strobes, as well as Dataflash af1000 strobes, from a software based DMX controller. Both of these units have static, non-strobing modes, but I can't figure out how to access this through the dmx channels in the software. I can control strobe speed and intensity, but can't make them stay on. Any ideas?

Thanks-

[Designer]

Id expect that one channel has to be set at a particular level or level range to do this, have you got a link to pdf manuals for your firxtures please?

[delcheetah]

yep-
here is for the chauvet techno strobe:

http://www.chauvetlighting.com/system/pdfs/ST-4000RGB_UG.pdf

and the dataflash 1000:

http://www.highend.com/pub/products/effects/AF1000/af1000.pdf

after re-reading the dataflash manual, i think i may have been setting the personality switches wrong on the unit... i'll give that another try. but still no idea with the chauvets...

[Deejay.El]

Hello all. First time on here. Quick question...I have several non-dmx lights and one dmx fixture. Can I use a dmx controller for all the lights while I slowly phase in more dmx lights? I would be happy with just turning the non-dmx lights on and off. Thanks.

[ncutler]

Hello all. First time on here. Quick question...I have several non-dmx lights and one dmx fixture. Can I use a dmx controller for all the lights while I slowly phase in more dmx lights? I would be happy with just turning the non-dmx lights on and off. Thanks.

In order to control non-dmx lights with a dmx controller, you'd need a switch or dimmer pack (most dimmer packs also double as a switch pack).

http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dimmerrelaypack_fix.shtml

Ebay: http://search.ebay.ca/search/search.dll?from=R40&_trksid=m37&satitle=dimmer+pack&category0=

[Deejay.El]

In order to control non-dmx lights with a dmx controller, you'd need a switch or dimmer pack (most dimmer packs also double as a switch pack).

http://www.chauvetlighting.com/fixtures/dimmerrelaypack_fix.shtml

Ebay: http://search.ebay.ca/search/search.dll?from=R40&_trksid=m37&satitle=dimmer+pack&category0=

So, I'm assuming that the switch/dimmer pack can then be used with a dmx contoller, yes?

[rec]

Sam ash sold me a std XLR cable for my DMX lights, how do I know if it has the twisted pair referenced by "Designer".

Did I buy the wrong type of cable?

Thanks

[hamzter]

I just made a DMX terminator. I had to use 1 - 100 ohm series with 2 - 10 ohm resistors that are 1/2watt each. My DMM reads 118.30 ohms. Is this ok or should I add another 10 ohm to get the 120 ohm resistance?

thanks.

[things]

It doesnt have to be exactly 120ohm, 118.30 is fine.

[hamzter]

It doesnt have to be exactly 120ohm, 118.30 is fine.

thanks... I was not sure, but that tells me that my Chauvet DMX-7 Controller is not audio sensitivity adjustable...

[chazman2]

hi i have 2 Scans on a SoundLab G018WC 192 Channel Dmx Controller, and i would like to mirror them, and even mirror them to sound...

[Mystic]

hi i have 2 Scans on a SoundLab G018WC 192 Channel Dmx Controller, and i would like to mirror them, and even mirror them to sound...

Step #1: http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h280/Mystic_Of_Cats/sign0012.gif
:D

[chazman2]

the manuel is shit... it dnt tell u nothink only how to quick install and set up... in like 6 differnet languages... help me please...

[Mystic]

You need to read the scanner manuals first and see exactly which dmx channels your scanners need to be set at in order to mirror each other. Then you can allow the controller to control the lights via sound activation if you don't feel like programming every single scene. Hell, if you're only using sound activation, just daisy chain the fixtures and set the DMX to whatever the manuals say it needs to be set at in order to mirror and let them run on sound activation... of course, this depends on what fixtures you're using as well.

Try downloading the updated versions of the manuals on the websites for the equipment you got and reading through it.

[spandauman]

I have just purchased a load of the latest DMX lighting as part of a new karaoke business but cannot fathom out how to control the individual lights either by DMX or to the music being played. Nor can i work out how the flahing/effects etc can be changed and programmed to be repeated when i want them to!

I have 6 LED PAR56 lights; 1 x 4 laser unit; 1 x 2 laser unit; 1 x volcano/explosion laser unit and 2 scanners all DMX controlled. They are connected by dmx cablling to a soundlab 192 channel rack mount controller

BUT I cannot work out how to controll each of the lights and in particular, the 6 PAR56's which only seem to run on a constant flashing colour of all red/green/blue

I've got mt first ever gig this coming saturday and need to get the hang of it by then or i'm doomed!! Tony spandauman@tonyhutch.plus.com

[tech126]

So if I buy a DMX contoller, I could have the fixtures run in sound or auto mode if the light fixutres allow it??

I just wanted to get into DMX control and learn as I go instead of buying relay/dimmer packs then later on upgrading to DMX..

So far , the lights I Have are:

1) Kinta

2) Vue3

3) Gem quad.


I know that I'm only allowed to dim the kinta and have auto modes on the vue and gem via a fixed channel on the dmx controller??

Am I correct or do I need to read more??

Thanks in advance

[djteknovibe]

I got a big question. How do you create a series of patterns so the laser only does patterns you want it to?

[Mystic]

I got a big question. How do you create a series of patterns so the laser only does patterns you want it to?

Pretty sure it depends on the laser.

[Benjammer]

Hi Designer thanks for the info. Yeah it is kinda confusing. I am not sure what kind of set up I have but will get the names of the units and get back to you with them. I have a 24 channel light board with 4 program pages. I have 4 dimmer packs 15 flood lamps par cans, 2 LED strip lights and 2 LED cans and 2 basic fog machines. I am pretty sure that my board can handle them all as I have not yet connected the LED's to the board or dimmer packs. Honestly I dont know how or what if anything the board will do when I connect them all. Right now only the flood cans are connected tacking one channel each. talk to you soon.

[DJ_Spider]

I have 2 lasers that are both DMX. One is the KAM starcluster 3D and the other is the R2-DJ. I also have 2 LittLed moonflowers. I have the 2 moonflowers connected by a DMX cable, can I connect the lasers and have them in sync, if you know what I mean. I know they won't be controlled by DMX, but can I connect them so they are a little more in tune with eachother so to speak?!

I have a video of my setup on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBKdrvH8vD0 and details of the R2-DJ can be found here http://www.soundmastersdirect.co.uk/products/lasers/intimidation-r2dj-40mw-animation-laser/

[andythemusician]

I have 2 lasers that are both DMX. One is the KAM starcluster 3D and the other is the R2-DJ. I also have 2 LittLed moonflowers. I have the 2 moonflowers connected by a DMX cable, can I connect the lasers and have them in sync, if you know what I mean. I know they won't be controlled by DMX, but can I connect them so they are a little more in tune with eachother so to speak?!

I have a video of my setup on youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBKdrvH8vD0 and details of the R2-DJ can be found here http://www.soundmastersdirect.co.uk/products/lasers/intimidation-r2dj-40mw-animation-laser/

Yes, the lasers you linked are DMX controllable, but also master/slave capable. So just hook them up together and read the manual on how to set one to master and the other to slave.

And yo, be careful with those - 40mW isn't a toy.

[DJ_Spider]

Thanks for the reply Andrew, got a DMX desk on order. Is there any way I can get it to fire my fog machine ? It isn't DMX, but I was wondering if there is any way to make the desk control it via the remote?

[andythemusician]

Thanks for the reply Andrew, got a DMX desk on order. Is there any way I can get it to fire my fog machine ? It isn't DMX, but I was wondering if there is any way to make the desk control it via the remote?

Hmm not sure, I've only ever used smoke and haze machines with DMX onboard.
If there is an analogue input on the desk and some sort of data / pulse connection on the smoke, you might be able to do something with that. But whatever you do, make sure you know what you're plugging in where.
Basic smoke machines literally rewire the incoming power through the remote and back again, so be sure not to send that into an unsuspecting connection on the desk!

[DJ_Spider]

Thanks for the info, this is the one I have, cheap n cheerful, but got it for sweet F.A.! http://bit.ly/8WpQRt Might see what the remote does, I am a little tech minded so I'll let you know! Either that or send the next post via my iPhone from the burns unit!!! :-O

[andythemusician]

Yeah those kind of machines are wired like I said, with the power going through the remote. Best you can do is get extension cables for the remote to make it longer (make sure you check the cable gauge and stuff to make sure its going to handle the power). Other than that, not much else you can do.
I've thought about modding them somehow to be controllable by a DMX relay, but the pain and headaches wouldn't really be worth it - might as well just buy a machine with DMX already fitted!

[Designer]

It is possible to modify it as andy said using a DMX relay pack with a normally open relay contact wired across the switch terminals of the remote so when the relay is energised then the fog will fire. However some electrical and mecahnical knowledge will be needed as you'll have to install the contents of the original remote housing inside a new housing slightly larger so you can add the cable outlet that goes to the relay pack, for safety reasons I would actually use an additional relay to ensure full electrical isolation between the fogger and relay pack

[SYNNQED]

Hey Designer... this is an amazing forum you've started. Im just getting into lighting and this has been a great help in deciding what I want.

Im looking into purchasing a Chauvet Obey 70 and a Chauvet Hurricane 1100. Now, can I plug in the fogger in to the Obey 70 and use the button on it (the obey) instead of the remote on the fogger? And do you recommend these two products for small to medium sized venues (350 - 1000 people) or should I spring for something bigger? Im also on a bit of a budget.

Thank you so much again for all the help.

Synnqed

[brad2332]

I run a club in Maine and currently have roughly 25-30 lights DMX controlled by American DJs MyDMX on a touch screen. I programmed most of it myself and find it better than what we had but still very limiting. I hate how you have to pick one scene and go with it. It needs to be preprogrammed and is like a generic menu in a restaurant where you cant change sides etc. I need somthing thats more like a buffet where i can have a little of this and a little of that etc. Take multiple scenes and stack them together and be able to pick and choose more. I know of Chauvets Xpress and Martins Lightjockey, but know very little about them. Im looking for some other names of suggestions and any knowledge or opinions other users might have of them. I read earlier in the forum that Light Jockey is a little confusing without a manual, but i even found MyDMX to be that way at first until i got used to it. Thanks for any help

[andythemusician]

I run a club in Maine and currently have roughly 25-30 lights DMX controlled by American DJs MyDMX on a touch screen. I programmed most of it myself and find it better than what we had but still very limiting. I hate how you have to pick one scene and go with it. It needs to be preprogrammed and is like a generic menu in a restaurant where you cant change sides etc. I need somthing thats more like a buffet where i can have a little of this and a little of that etc. Take multiple scenes and stack them together and be able to pick and choose more. I know of Chauvets Xpress and Martins Lightjockey, but know very little about them. Im looking for some other names of suggestions and any knowledge or opinions other users might have of them. I read earlier in the forum that Light Jockey is a little confusing without a manual, but i even found MyDMX to be that way at first until i got used to it. Thanks for any help

I'm starting to feel like a rep for these guys on here... haha

I'm looking forward to using this piece of software more:
http://www.lsclighting.com/products/clarity-control-system/clarity-for-pcmac

LSC are a great lighting control manufacturer based in Australia - I've used quite a few of their boards, and they are fantastic. I've heard nothing but great things so far with this software from reps and industry guys out here, and I can't wait to get my hands on it when the Mac version is released.

I would consider it to be certainly on par with Martin's LightJockey.