DMX Primer
There are 512 channels in a DMX connection. A fixture capable of receiving DMX will require one
or a number of sequential channels. The user must assign a starting address on the fixture that
indicates the first channel reserved in the controller. There are many different types of DMX
controllable fixtures and they all may vary in the total number of channels required. Choosing a
start address should be planned in advance. Channels should never overlap. If they do, this will
result in erratic operation of the fixtures whose starting address is set incorrectly. You can
however, control multiple fixtures of the same type using the same starting address as long as the
intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the fixtures will all
respond exactly the same.
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a daisy chain. A daisy chain connection is
where the DATA OUT of one fixture connects to the DATA IN of the next fixture. The order in
which the fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how a controller
communicates to each fixture. Use an order that provides for the easiest and most direct cabling.
Connect fixtures using shielded two conductor twisted pair DMX data cable with three pin XLR
male to female connectors. The shield connection is pin 1, while pin 2 is Data Negative (S-) and
pin 3 is Data positive (S+).
Fixture Linking (Daisy Chain)
You will need a daisy chain to run light shows of one or more fixtures using a DMX controller or to
run synchronized shows on two or more fixtures set to a master/slave operating mode. The
combined number of channels required by all the fixtures on a daisy chain determines the number
of fixtures the data link can support.
To comply with the EIA-485 standard, do not connect more than 32 fixtures on one daisy
chain. Connecting more than 32 fixtures on one daisy chain without the use of a DMX
optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal.
Maximum recommended cable distance: 500 m (1640 ft)
Maximum recommended number of fixtures on a daisy chian: 32
Data Cabling
To link fixtures together you must obtain data cables. You can purchase CHAUVET® certified
DMX cables directly from a dealer/distributor or construct your own cable. If you choose to create
your own cable, please use data-grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less
prone to electromagnetic interference.
DMX Data Cable
Use a Belden© 9841 or equivalent cable which meets the specifications for EIA RS-485
applications. Standard microphone cables cannot transmit DMX data reliably over long distances.
The cable must have the following characteristics:
Type:
shielded, 2-conductor twisted pair
30 pF/ft
Maximum capacitance between conductors:
Maximum capacitance between conductor and shield:
Maximum resistance:
Nominal impedance:
55 pF/ft
20 ohms/1000 ft
100 ~ 140 ohms
Standard microphone cables cannot transmit DMX data reliably over long distances, and
may cause erratic behavior.
5. Appendix
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