Chauvet DMX512 Fixture Linking, Data Cabling, Dmx Data Cable, Cable Connectors, Dmx +, Input

Fixture Linking

You will need a serial data link to run light shows of one or more fixtures using a DMX-512 controller or to run synchronized shows on two or more fixtures set to a master/slave operating mode. The combined number of channels required by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number of fixtures the data link can support.

Important: Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line. To comply with the EIA-485 standard no more than 32 devices should be connected on one data link. Connecting more than 32 fixtures on one serial data link without the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal.

Maximum recommended serial data link distance: 500 meters (1640 ft.)

Maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data link: 32 fixtures

Data Cabling

To link fixtures together you must obtain data cables. You can purchase CHAUVET-certified DMX cables directly from a dealer/distributor or construct your own cable. If you choose to create your own cable please use data-grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to electromagnetic interference.

DMX DATA CABLE

Use a Belden© 9841 or equivalent cable which meets the specifications for EIA RS-485 applications. Standard microphone cables cannot transmit DMX data reliably over long distances. The cable will have the following characteristics:

2-conductor twisted pair plus a shield

Maximum capacitance between conductors – 30 pF/ft. Maximum capacitance between conductor and shield – 55 pF/ft. Maximum resistance of 20 ohms / 1000 ft.

Nominal impedance 100 – 140 ohms

CABLE CONNECTORS

Cabling must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end.

DMX connector configuration

		COMMON
	1	DMX +
INPUT	3
	2	DMX -

1	Resistance 120
3	ohm 1/4w between
	pin 2	(DMX -) and
2
	pin 3	(DMX +) of

	the last fixture.
1	OUTPUT
3
2	Termination reduces signal errors and
	to avoid signal transmission problems

and interference, it is always advisable to connect a DMX signal terminator.

CAUTION	Do not allow contact between the common and the fixture’s chassis ground. Grounding the common
	can cause a ground loop, and your fixture may perform erratically. Test cables with an ohm meter to
	verify correct polarity and to make sure the pins are not grounded or shorted to the shield or each other.

Stage Mover Manual 8 2007-04-13/09:39