ADJ 18P HEX User Instructions page 7

S E T U P
Power Supply: The ADJ 18P Hex contains an automatic voltage switch, which will automatically
sense the voltage when it is plugged into the power source. With this switch there is no need to worry
about the correct power voltage, and this unit can be plugged in anywhere.
DMX-512: DMX is short for Digital Multiplex. This is a universal protocol used as a form of communication
between intelligent fixtures and controllers. A DMX controller sends DMX data instructions from the
controller to the fixture. DMX data is sent as serial data that travels from fixture to fixture via the DATA
"IN" and DATA "OUT" XLR terminals located on all DMX fixtures (most controllers only have a DATA
"OUT" terminal).
DMX Linking: DMX is a language allowing all makes and models of different manufacturers to be
linked together and operate from a single controller, as long as all fixtures and the controller are DMX
compliant. To ensure proper DMX data transmission, try to use the shortest cable path possible when
linking several DMX fixtures. The order in which fixtures are connected in a DMX line does not influence
the DMX addressing. For example, a fixture assigned a DMX address of 1 may be placed anywhere in
a DMX line: at the beginning, at the end, or anywhere in the middle. When a fixture is assigned a DMX
address of 1, the DMX controller knows to send DATA assigned to address 1 to that unit, no matter
where it is located in the DMX chain.
Data Cable (DMX Cable) Requirements (For DMX Operation): The 18P Hex can be controlled via
DMX protocol. The 18P Hex has 4 DMX channel modes. Your unit and your DMX controller can accept
either a standard 3-pin or 5-pin XLR connector for data input and data output. We recommend Accu-
Cable DMX cables. If you are making your own cables, be sure to use standard 110-120 Ohm shielded
cable (This cable may be purchased at almost all pro lighting stores). Your cables should be made
with a male XLR connector at one end of the cable and a female XLR connector at the other. Also
remember that DMX cable must be daisy chained and cannot be split.
Notice: If you opt to make your own cables, do not use the ground lug on the XLR connector. Do
not connect the cable's shield conductor to the ground lug or allow the shield conductor to come
into contact with the XLR's outer casing. Grounding the shield could cause a short circuit and erratic
behavior.
Special Note: Line Termination. When longer runs of cable are used, you may need to use a terminator
on the last unit to avoid erratic behavior. A terminator is a 110-120 ohm 1/4 watt resistor which is
connected between pins 2 and 3 of a male XLR connector (DATA + and DATA -). This unit is inserted
in the female XLR connector of the last unit in your daisy chain to terminate the line. Using a cable
terminator (ADJ part number Z-DMX/T) will reduce the risk of erratic behavior.
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