DMX Cabling
The DMX protocol requires using special data cables to accommodate for the high speed digital signals it uses. Despite their apparent similarities, data cables are electrically different from standard microphone cables because they can carry high frequency digital signals and have better protection against electromagnetic interference. You can purchase CHAUVET® certified DMX cables directly from a dealer/distributor or make your own DMX cable.
If you choose to make your own DMX cable, you must use a
Type: | shielded, |
Maximum capacitance between conductors: | 30 pF/ft |
Maximum capacitance between conductor and shield: | 55 pF/ft |
Maximum resistance: | 20 ohms/1000 ft |
Nominal impedance: | 100~140 ohms |
DMX Connectors
Each DMX cable must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end. The DMX protocol indicates that the XLR connectors must have five pins. However, most lighting fixtures use the
Male Plug
Signal |
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Common | 1 |
| 1 |
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Data - | 2 |
| 2 |
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Data + | 3 |
| 3 |
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Not used |
| 4 | |
Not used |
| 5 | |
Female Plug
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| Signal | ||
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| 1 |
| 1 | Common |
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| 2 |
| 2 | Data - |
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| 3 |
| 3 | Data + |
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| 4 |
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| Not used |
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| 5 |
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| Not used |
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You can use the above table to create a
The DMX daisy chain uses a terminator to reduce signal transmission problems, especially with long cables. The terminator consists of either a
The terminator plug connects to the DMX Out socket of the last DMX fixture in the daisy chain.
Do not allow the common wire of the DMX cable to touch the fixture’s chassis ground. This could cause a ground loop, which may affect your fixtures’ performance. Test all DMX cables with an ohmmeter to verify the correct polarity of the wires, and to make sure that they are not touching the shield or each other.
Page 16 of 18 | Cubix™ User Manual (Rev. 01a) |