How to Connect a Light Show
Modern lighting fixtures for theater and live music performances are connected and controlled by the Digital Multiplex communications protocol, commonly known as DMX512, or DMX for short. The 512 suffix designates the number of channels the system is able to control through a standard DMX three-conductor cable. DMX control parameters are communicated with individual fixtures by assigning each lighting channel a distinct digital address. DMX addresses are binary and are set by the user on the dimmer or power packs, according to the number of channels used. For the purposes of this article, four lighting fixtures will be connected using four DMX channels.
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Instructions
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Set the DMX address to four-channel operation by moving the number one dimmer or power pack DIP switch to the "on" position. If the dimmer has digital DMX address controls, set the address to "001."
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Plug the lighting fixtures into the dimmer or power pack, plugging each fixture into one of four channels. If the dimmer or power pack has more than one outlet per channel, you can plug more than one fixture into a single channel, up to the rated electrical capacity.
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3
Insert the DMX cable into the input jack of the dimmer or power pack. Additional dimmer or power packs may be daisy-chained with additional DMX cables through the output jack of the first unit.
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Insert the DMX cable into the output jack of the DMX controller. No address protocol setting is necessary or possible on the controller, for the controller will recognize the information entered on the dimmer or power pack.
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Turn on the dimmer's or power pack's main power switch. Lights will flash on the pack, if so equipped, on all active channels.
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Turn on the DMX controller's power.
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Test all the controls and fixtures to make sure that they work properly and that the channel assignments are correct.
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Tips & Warnings
Refer to the DMX address protocols, and follow all the manufacturer's recommendations for the brand of controller, lighting fixtures and dimmer or power pack you use.
DMX protocol does not offer safety protection. Never operate pyrotechnics or other potentially dangerous lighting or stage effects using DMX equipment. Always refer to the manufacturer's warnings and recommendations for DMX compatibility and safe operation.
