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DMX TECHNOLOGY
DMX-512
DMX (Digital Multiplex) is the designation for a universal transmission protocol for communica-
tions between corresponding devices and controllers. A DMX controller sends DMX data to the
connected DMX device(s). The DMX data is always transmitted as a serial data stream that is
forwarded from one connected device to the next via the “DMX IN” and “DMX OUT” connectors
(XLR plug-type connectors) that are found on every DMX-capable device, provided the maximum
number of devices does not exceed 32 units. The last device in the chain needs to be equipped
with a terminator (terminating resistor).
DMX CONNECTION
DMX is the common “language” via which a very wide range of types and models of equipment
from various manufacturers can be connected with one another and controlled via a central
controller, provided that all of the devices and the controller are DMX compatible. For optimum
data transmission, it is necessary to keep the connecting cables between the individual devices
as short as possible. The order in which the devices are integrated in the DMX network has no
influence on the addresses. Thus the device with the DMX address 1 can be located at any posi-
tion in the (serial) DMX chain: at the beginning, at the end or somewhere in the middle. If the DMX
address 1 is assigned to a device, the controller “knows” that it should send all data allocated to
address 1 to this device regardless of its position in the DMX network.
SERIAL CONNECTION OF MULTIPLE LIGHTS
1. Connect the male XLR connector (3-pin or 5-pin) of the DMX cable to the DMX output (female
XLR socket) of the first DMX device (e.g. DMX-Controller).
2. Connect the female 3-pin XLR connector of the DMX cable connected to the first projector to
the DMX input (male 3-pin socket) of the next DMX device. In the same way, connect the DMX
output of this device to the DMX input of the next device and repeat until all devices have been
connected. Please note that as a rule, DMX devices are connected in series and connections
cannot be shared without active splitters. The maximum number of DMX devices in a DMX
chain should not exceed 32 units.
The Adam Hall 3 STAR, 4 STAR, and 5 STAR product ranges include an extensive selection of
suitable cables.
DMX CABLES
When fabricating your own cables, always observe the illustrations on this page. Never connect
the shielding of the cable to the ground contact of the plug, and always make certain that the
shielding does not come into contact with the housing of the XLR plug. If the shielding is connect-
ed to the ground, this can lead to short-circuiting and system malfunctions.
