DMX Primer

Starting

Address

The USITT DMX512-A data transmission protocol (DMX, from now on) is based on the EIA-485 standard and it has 512 channels (001 to 512). This system requires a controller (DMX controller), one or more DMX compatible products, and a DMX circuit (also known as “DMX universe”) to link the products to the controller.

Depending on their complexity and features, DMX compatible products may require from one to more than 30 DMX channels to operate. Some DMX products have multiple operation modes (also known as “personalities”), each with its own number of channels and controllable parameters.

In the DMX system, the controller sends DMX data to each product based on the product’s starting address. The starting address is the number of the DMX channel (001 to 512) assigned to the product’s first control channel (Channel 1). When assigning starting addresses to multiple products, it is critical to ensure that no starting address is already in use by another product to prevent channels from overlapping. Otherwise, the affected products may operate erratically.

For instance, a user has two DMX compatible products. Product “A” has four channels and product “B” has six channels. If the user configures the starting address of product “A” to “001”, channels 001 through 004 on the DMX controller will control product “A”. This means that the user should assign the starting address of product “B” to “005” or higher. For a starting address of “005”, the DMX controller would use channels 005 to 010 to control product “B”.

It is possible to control multiple products of the same type by assigning each one of them the same starting address. In this case, all the products would respond in unison (synchronized) to the signals from the DMX controller.

Product

Linking (Daisy

Chain)

DMX compatible products receive the control signals from the DMX controller through the DMX cables. Each product has a DMX In and a DMX Out connector. The figure to the right illustrates how the products link to each other using multiple segments of DMX cable in a sequential format called “daisy chain”.

The order in which the products connect to the DMX controller is irrelevant because all products receive the same DMX signals and they only respond to them based on their individual starting addresses. However, it is important to notice that the connections between products should always be as short and direct as possible.

To ensure the integrity of the DMX signal, follow the recommendations of the EIA-485 standard:

DMX Controller

1st DMX Product

2nd DMX Product

To other products

∙The maximum recommended cable length is 500 m (1,640 feet).

∙The maximum recommended number of products on the same daisy chain is 32.

Connecting more than 32 products on one daisy chain without the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal.

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Mini 4 Bar™ 2.0 User Manual (Rev. 03)

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Chauvet MINI 4 BAR 2.0 user manual DMX Primer, Product Linking Daisy Chain
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MINI 4 BAR 2.0 specifications

The Chauvet MINI 4 BAR 2.0 is an innovative lighting fixture designed to elevate any performance or event with its dynamic features and technologies. As part of Chauvet's successful family of lighting solutions, the MINI 4 BAR 2.0 is particularly popular among mobile DJs, event planners, and entertainers seeking a powerful yet compact lighting option.

One of the standout features of the MINI 4 BAR 2.0 is its four high-output LED lights that deliver stunning colors and effects. Each of the four fixtures can be individually adjusted, allowing users to create a variety of lighting effects. The LEDs are capable of producing bright, vibrant colors, thanks to their RGB color mixing capability, which enables a wide spectrum of hues to illuminate any space. This versatility makes the MINI 4 BAR 2.0 suitable for various applications, from weddings and corporate events to concerts and dance parties.

The MINI 4 BAR 2.0 is equipped with multiple operational modes, including DMX, master/slave, and sound activation. The DMX mode provides lighting professionals with complete control over each light's parameters, enabling the precise synchronization of lighting patterns and effects. Additionally, the master/slave functionality allows for easy setup without the need for a DMX controller, perfect for quick configurations at events. The sound activation mode makes the lights dance to the beat of the music, adding a layer of interaction that enhances the overall atmosphere.

Another key characteristic of the MINI 4 BAR 2.0 is its lightweight and portable design. Weighing only a few pounds and featuring a compact construction, the fixture is easy to transport and set up, making it an ideal choice for mobile entertainers. The included mounting brackets allow for versatile positioning, whether mounted on a T-bar, tripod, or even hung from a truss.

Overall, the Chauvet MINI 4 BAR 2.0 combines excellent performance with user-friendly features, making it a go-to lighting solution for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to create an ambiance for a corporate event or pump up the energy at a dance party, the MINI 4 BAR 2.0 delivers a stunning array of lighting possibilities with ease and efficiency.
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