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Data link
A data link is required in order to control a smartMAC via DMX or synchronize fixtures in stand-alone
operation.
Important!
Do not connect more than 1 data input and 1 data output on a fixture.
The smartMAC has both 3-pin and 5-pin XLR connectors for DMX data input and output. The pin-out on all
connectors is pin 1 = shield, pin 2 = cold (-), and pin 3 = hot (+).
Pins 4 and 5 in the 5-pin XLR connectors are available for enhanced features in conformity with DMX 512-A.
Pin-out is pin 4 = data 2 cold (-) and pin 5 = data 2 hot (+).
Sockets are wired in parallel: both inputs connect to both outputs. To avoid damage to the fixture, never use
more than one input and one output socket.
Tips for reliable data transmission
• Use shielded twisted-pair cable designed for RS-485 devices: standard microphone cable cannot transmit
control data reliably over long runs. 24 AWG cable is suitable for runs up to 300 meters (1000 ft). Heavier
gauge cable and/or an amplifier is recommended for longer runs.
• Never use both a fixture's outputs to split the link. To split the link into branches, use a splitter such as the
Martin 4-Channel Opto-Isolated RS-485 Splitter/Amplifier.
• Do not overload the link. Up to 32 devices may be connected on a serial link.
• Terminate the link by installing a termination plug in the
output socket of the last fixture. The termination plug,
which is a male XLR plug with a 120 Ohm, 0.25 Watt
resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3, "soaks up" the
control signal so it does not reflect and cause interference.
If a splitter is used, terminate each branch of the link.
• Some older fixtures have reversed polarity data sockets
(pin 2 hot and pin 3 cold). Polarity is normally labelled on
devices and described in user manuals. Use a
phase-reversing cable between the smartMAC and any
device with reversed polarity.
Connecting the data link
1. Connect the DMX data output from the controller to the smartMAC's 3-pin or 5-pin input (male) socket.
2. Using the sockets that match your data cable, connect the output of the fixture closest to the controller to
the input of the next fixture.
3. Insert a male 120 Ohm XLR termination plug in the 3-pin or 5-pin output of the last fixture on the link.
3-pin to 3-pin
phase-reversing
adaptor
Male
1
2
3
P/N 11820006
Data link
Male
termination plug
Female
Male XLR
1
1
2
2
120 Ohm
3
3
P/N 91613017
13
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