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Appendix A - Definitions, acronyms and abbreviations
ACN – the ESTA Architecture for Co ntrol Networks standard [ACN]. It speci fies an architecture —
including a suite of protocols and languages which may be configured and combined with other standard
protocols in a number of way s to form flexible networked control syst ems. ANSI E1.17
Art-Net– an Ethernet & UDP based specification for transport of DM X and RDM data. Additionally, Art-
Nethas built in mechanisms f or the control of video projectors.
DMX512– Digital Multiplex 5 12 channels is the ANSI protocol for co ntrolling theater equipment ANSI
E1.11.
ESTA – Entertainment Servi ces and Technology Association, is a n on-profit commercial trade association
representing the North Ameri can entertainment technology industry. ESTA develops standards and
recommended practices that facilitate the use of new and existing eq uipment, improve communications
and promote safe working co nditions in the industry.
Ethernet – A high speed ser ial communications network used throu ghout the industry.
InfoTrace – Wybron’s inform ation control and management system that provides two way communication
and control for everything on a lighting rig.
MAC Address – Media Acce ss Control Address. This is a unique nu mber that is hard coded into every
Ethernet device. The MAC ad dress is set in a unit when it is manufac tured and it should never change.
Net-IT – This is a product that receives or DMX512 over Ethernet an d does a protocol translation to
straight DMX512.
RDM – Remote Device Managem ent Protocol (RDM) permits intelligent b i-directional communication
between devices from multip le manufacturers utilizing a modified DM X512 data link. RDM is an EF 1.0
implementation of ANSI E1.1 1.
RDM Controller – Devices t hat primarily act as controllers and distr ibution devices that do their own
discovery.
RDM Responders – Device s that typically receive and act on DMX 512 data and/or act on RDM
messages.
UDP – Unigram data packets . These are packets of data sent over a n Ethernet network which do not
guarantee delivery.
UID – Unique Identifier, each RDM compatible device in an RDM sy stem must have it’s own unique
identification number. This n umber is used to identify the RDM me ssage sender and intended recipient.
XLR Connector – A positive locking electrical connector commonly used in intelligent theatrical
equipment. For this product f ive pin connectors are used to carry DM X / RDM control signals and four pin
connectors are used to carry power and control signals.