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DMX-Link
Art-Net
Compatible
sACN Compatible
DMX512 over
an Ethernet backbone
e |
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Discontinued Product
Goddard Design Company is pleased to
provide DMX-Link. DMX-Link allows multiple universes of DMX512 to
be sent over a standard Ethernet cable plant. With DMX-Link even
sophisticated distribution systems can be built without using patch
panels or complicated routing switches.
DMX-Link supports the Art-Net protocol,
the first TCP /IP based theater protocol with multi-vendor support. The
DMX-Link Decoder2 modules also support E1.31 (sACN) Any product that
supports the Art-Net protocol to transport DMX style data should be
inter-operable with GDC DMX-Link products
DMX-Link Products
DMX-Link Encoder2 is a two-universe DMX
512 to Art-Net encoder. Each module is front panel assignable to
one of 16 different network groups. Each panel has two DMX512
input connectors. The DMX512 signal on each connector is encoded and
assigned to the panel's group and to one of 16 different DMX universes
within that group. This theoretically means that 256 universes are
possible. (If using the default broadcast addressing scheme, you are
limited to 40 universes.) When using unicast addressing with
intelligent control, systems of 400 - even 4000 - universes are
possible.
DMX-Link Decoder2 is a two-universe
Ethernet to DMX512 decoder. It supports Art-Net 3 and sACN(add
version). The modules support broadcast (in Art-Net), multicast (in
sACN), or unicast in both Art-Net and sACN.\
A DMX-Link Decoder2
provides two DMX512 output connectors. Each module is assignable to one
of 16 groups, then each connector can be assigned to one of 16
universes. Set the universes you need at this location, and plug
in your DMX cable. A DMX-Link Decoder2 receiving two Art-Net
signals addressed to the same universe will merge them before routing
them to the output connector. This makes DMX-Link an economical
merge unit that just happens to come with a distribution system
attached!
DMX-Link Decoder2 units support RDM when connected to an ART-Net / RDM V1.0 enabled controller.
Common features:
The wall mount version is mounted to a
three-gang cover plate compatible with standard US surface or flush
boxes. The front panel provides two DMX512 connectors, each with a
tally LED. There is also a LED to indicate that the unit is powered and
running, and one to indicate network activity. Three 16-position rotary
switches set the unit function. These units are also available as table
top units. (see below)
Modules are shipped with a fixed IP address but may optionally get their address via DHCP.
The modules are fully configurable by Artistic Licence DMXWorkshop ( a free program) or via an embedded web page.
Ethernet Backbone:
The 10BaseT Ethernet connection is made
by a rear mounted RJ45 connector. The simplest system is an Encoder2
unit connected by a crossover cable to a Decoder2 unit. More
complicated systems will require addition of at least one Ethernet
switch. In most systems there is no need for a computer or any other
control equipment. In all cases the rules for Ethernet cabling must be
followed.( ESTA publishes recommended practices on Ethernet cabling for
theater and entertainment.)
Because the default addressing scheme
of Art-Net is a class A network it is not recommended that Art-Net
networks share the same physical wiring with other networks,
particularly those connected to the Internet. (This may not be true for
systems using unicast addressing, but shared networks add complexity
and reliability questions.)
Power supply:
Both encoders and decoders require an
external power source of 9 to 48 VDC. In many applications 24-volts is
an excellent choice. This supply may be distributed by a separate cable
or by the Ethernet cable using the IEEE 802.3 standard. The current
required by a unit is dependent on the power supply voltage reaching
the unit. Contrary to expectations the required supply current
increases as the available voltage decreases. The power supply input is
isolated. This means that a common supply may power multiple DMX-Link
units while maintaining isolated DMX512.
DMX-Link
component
|
Current required at:
|
10 Volts |
20 volts |
30 volts |
Encoder2 |
140mA |
70mA |
50mA |
Decoder2 |
200 mA |
95 mA |
65mA |
Table Top Case with Power Supply:
The DMX-Link TT is a welded steel
enclosure providing mounting for either an encoder or a decoder module,
a universal switching power supply, and an EtherCon® RJ45
connector. For more details consult the
DMX-Link TT data sheet.
DMX-Link is upgradable:
Because both DMX512 and the Art-Net
protocol are works in progress, DMX-Link modules are field upgradable.
The operating software can be updated across the Ethernet connection,
so modules don't even need to be demounted to have a software upgrade.
Goddard Design Company
51 Nassau Ave.
Brooklyn NY 11222 USA
718 599-0170 718 599-0172 fax
http://www.goddarddesign.com
© copyright Goddard Design Co. 2016 Last updated Oct.29,2017