Dmx Primer - Varytec FLATBEAM DUO 48x8W RGBW User Manual

6. DMX Primer

There are 512 channels in a dmx 512 connection. Channels may be assigned in any manner. A fixture
capable of receiving DMX 512 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 by using the same starting
address as long as the intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the
fixtures will be slaved together and all respond exactly the same.
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a serial daisy chain, a daisy chain connection is
where the data out of one fixture connects with the data in of the next fixture. The order in which the
fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how the 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 cable with three pin XLR male to female connectors. The shield
connection is pin 1,while pin 2 is data negative and pin 3 is data positive.
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