DMX
Ultimate
Converter
Firmware Version 2.5
March 2007
1439 17th Avenue SE
Calgary, AB, T2G 1W4
Canada
Phone: (403) 243-8110
Fax: (403) 287-1281
E-mail: support@pathwayconnect.com
www.pathwayconnect.com
User’s Guide
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
Table of Contents
About The DMX
Protocols Supported....................................................................................................................................................................3
Quick Start: Basic Conversion.................................................................................................................................................4
Configuring Inputs.........................................................................................................................................................................4
Input Terminator......................................................................................................................................................................4
Analog Inputs.............................................................................................................................................................................5
Configuring Outputs .....................................................................................................................................................................5
DMX Output................................................................................................................................................................................5
Speed.......................................................................................................................................................................................5
AMX Output................................................................................................................................................................................5
Reset........................................................................................................................................................................................5
Colortran......................................................................................................................................................................................5
AVAB .............................................................................................................................................................................................5
Channels.................................................................................................................................................................................5
EC-Mux..........................................................................................................................................................................................6
Microplex.....................................................................................................................................................................................6
Kliegl...............................................................................................................................................................................................6
Start Address .................................................................................................................................................................................6
6/12K Assignments (AMX only)...........................................................................................................................................6
AMX Start address.................................................................................................................................................................7
Configuration Memory...........................................................................................................................................................7
Diagnostics.......................................................................................................................................................................................7
Tweak Output.............................................................................................................................................................................7
Analyze Input..............................................................................................................................................................................8
User Options....................................................................................................................................................................................8
Status Quo..................................................................................................................................................................................8
About.............................................................................................................................................................................................8
Security.........................................................................................................................................................................................8
RS232 Link.................................................................................................................................................................................9
Output Test ......................................................................................................................................................................................9
Updating your DMX
Update procedure...................................................................................................................................................................9
Software Update Troubleshooting Tips......................................................................................................................10
Appendix......................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Connector Pinouts ...............................................................................................................................................................12
DMX512.............................................................................................................................................................................12
Electro-Controls Mux (ECMux).................................................................................................................................12
Colortran Mux (CMX)...................................................................................................................................................12
AMX192 (XLR).................................................................................................................................................................12
AMX192 .............................................................................................................................................................................13
Strand D54........................................................................................................................................................................13
MicroPlex............................................................................................................................................................................13
Kliegl K96 ...........................................................................................................................................................................13
AVAB.....................................................................................................................................................................................13
Analog Multiplex Inputs Disabled...................................................................................................................................14
Technical Support...................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Ultimate
Ultimate
Converter....................................................................................................................................3
Converter ............................................................................................................................9
2
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
ABOUT THE DMX
Before the advent of the USITT DMX512 control signal standard, manufacturers developed a
number of proprietary multiplex communications protocols. Strand developed AMX, Colortran had
their CMX, Kliegl offered K96, and Electro Controls (also known as Control Lighting) used EC-Mux.
Additional protocols also followed in the form of NSI’s MicroPlex, Strand Europe’s D54 and AVAB’s
own multiplex protocol.
We designed
employ different communications protocols. In addition, the
other useful customization and diagnostic functions, all in a simple to learn and use device.
DMX Ultimate Converter
U
LTI MATE
to permit the interconnection of consoles and dimmers that
CONVERTER
DMX Ultimate Converter
also provides
P
ROTOCOLS SUPPORTED
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
They are:
Protocol Description Connector
DMX512 Probably the most widely used protocol for controlling
AMX192 Originally Strand Lighting’s first multiplex protocol,
Colortran Also referred to as CMX, Colortran’s digital protocol
AVAB The AVAB protocol was one of the early digital
EC-MUX Electro Controls’ foray into digital dimmer control
Kliegl Kliegl made a wide range of consoles and dimmers
D54 Designed by Strand for their European dimmers and
MicroPlex MicroPlex is a protocol developed by NSI to control
supports a wide range of lighting industry communication protocols.
5 pin XLR
lighting equipment, DMX was the first USITT industry
standard multiplex protocol. DMX generates up to
512 control signals.
4 pin XLR (also 4
AMX is an analog multiplex protocol that carries up to
192 control signals. AMX192 is now a USITT
standard.
was the forerunner of DMX512.
protocols. The AVAB protocol produces 240-252
control signals.
resulted in this 512-dimmer protocol. Commonly
used with
later bought Electro Controls.
prior to going out of business in the 80’s. The Kliegl
protocol is often referred to as K96, after the
dimmer rack it was developed for. K96 is able to
handle 10,000 dimmers on 480 control channels.
consoles, D54 produces 384 control signals.
their dimmers. It is also used by Lightronics. Limited
support (48 channels output, no input) is offered for
MicroPlex.
Celebrity
control consoles. Strand Lighting
pin mini TA4)
5 pin XLR
Variety
4 pin XLR
Variety
3 pin XLR
3 pin XLR
3
DMX Ultimate Converter
QUICK STAR T: BASIC CONVERSION
User’s Manual
Plug in the power cord to your
automatically sense and accommodate any voltage/frequency from 100-240VAC and 50/60 Hz.
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
on a helpful LCD menu display. The arrows at the end of each line show your options from that point
in the menu. Use the OK button to make your selection.
NOTE: Not all menu functions shown on the display are supported by firmware
Since your
will need to specify the conversion desired before you start. Use the X button until you see the
SELECT INPUT option, and then press the S or T button until you see the desired input protocol.
Press OK. Select TERMINATED or UNTERMINATED INPUT if displayed (see below), and press OK
again. Now press the X button until you see the SELECT OUTPUT option, and again use the S and
T buttons scroll through your output choices. Press OK when you find the desired output protocol.
Your converter is now ready to process and convert your control protocols. Press the X key until
you see GO TO STATUS DISPLAY and press OK. The status display will show a number of messages
pertaining to the current state of the converter. One of them will look something like:
This indicates the conversion mode in effect and the ports (A to F) you should be connected to. You
will also see something like:
This is provided as an additional, plain English indication of the selected conversion mode.
Some input protocols require termination when your
connected on a data line. For example, if
the console DMX output, then it
Where appropriate, you will be offered the option of terminating the input line after you have
selected the input protocol.
There are a number of additional optional parameters that can be set on your input and output
protocols. These are discussed in the next section.
versions earlier than 2.5. Only the items described in this manual are supported.
DMX Ultimate Converter
is configured using the arrow keypad to navigate the options provided
INPUT OUTPUT
A:DMX C:AVAB
CONVERSION MODE
DMX TO AVAB
DMX Ultimate Converter
is capable of performing a number of different conversions, you
DMX Ultimate Converter
the DMX Ultimate Converter
is
the last device on that data line and should be terminated.
. The internal power supply will
is the last device
is the only thing connected to
CONFIGURING INPUTS
INPUT TERMINATOR
When the
chain, it must be terminated in order to comply with wiring rules and to ensure reliable system
operation.
DMX Ultimate Converter
is the last device in a DMX, Kliegl, Colortran or AVAB daisy
4
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
When one of the above digital protocols is chosen from the Select Input menu, the current state of
the DMX input terminator is shown. To change the current termination setting, use the S and T
buttons to make your selection and then press OK. Note that when termination is on, the pass-thru
connector (port B) is disabled.
ANALOG INPUTS
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
controls such as Strand Mantrix (CD80/AMX protocol) and Galaxy (D54), as well as NSI consoles
with only Microplex output. These applications are not recommended for the
Converter
fluctuating output which may be noticed in certain types of equipment like color scrollers and moving
lights. See the Appendix for more information on analog multiplex inputs.
however because the analog to digital conversion it performs results in a slightly
CONFIGURING OUTPUTS
Different output protocols have different parameters and options. Use the following to help you
select the right configuration options for your application. If the recommended configuration does
not appear to work properly, try selecting a different option.
is designed to allow conversions from popular legacy analog multiplex
DMX Ultimate
DMX OUTPUT
SPEED
Fast
Medium
Slow
Custom
(recommended)
AMX OUTPUT
RESET
Normal
Narrow
Wide
(recommended)
COLORTRAN
No user settings are provided for CMX protocol. The
properly with most Colortran dimmers including D192 and ENR, as well as D/A converters.
DMX Ultimate Converter
will communicate
AVAB
CHANNELS
AVAB systems can be configured for 240 or 252 channels. Use the AVAB channels configuration
to use the minimum number of channels suitable for your existing system.
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DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
EC-MUX
No user settings are provided for ECMux protocol. The
properly with all EC QD-series digital dimmer racks, Strand/EC CD80AE (ECMux version) and QD
dimmer packs.
MICROPLEX
There are two different types of Microplex protocol, Microplex 1 (NSI) or Microplex 2 (Lightronics).
Choose the appropriate one for your application
KLIEGL
No user settings are provided for K96 output. The
properly with all K96 and K100 digital dimmer racks. These dimmer racks incorporate a
channel/dimmer soft-patch function that must be assigned by the control console. The
Ultimate Converter
signal is applied to its input (ie when the console is turned on or plugged in).
deals with this by transmitting a 1-to-1-patch file once, each time a valid DMX
DMX Ultimate Converter
DMX Ultimate Converter
will communicate
will communicate
DMX
STAR T ADDRESS
Use the Start Address setting to determine the start point of your output data (the default is 1). If
you set a start address of 100, the information from channel one on your input protocol will appear
on channel 100 of the output data stream. The information from channel two on your input protocol
will appear on channel 101, and so on.
6/12K ASSIGNMENTS (AMX ONLY)
Strand CD80® 6 and 12Kw dimmers occupy two AMX positions in the rack, so the output has to be
adjusted accordingly. Use this function to identify which rack
After you have selected AMX192 as an output protocol, use the X button to locate
◄ 6/12K ASSIGN ►
▲ AMX 1 ▼
6/12K assignments are made for each AMX output so they have to be defined for both AMX 1 and
AMX 2. Use the T button to select which AMX line you need to configure and press OK.
To change the existing 6/12K assignment select EDIT. You will see
SLOT# TYPE
▲ 001 ▼ ◄ 2K ►
Use the STarrow keys to first select the desired slot number for a 6 or 12K module, then use the
WX keys to change the module type from 2K to 6/12K. When selected, use the ST keys to select
the next slot, and so on. Do not press OK until you have finished your assignments.
You can also use the 6/12K-edit function to review what slots have which type of dimmer module.
slots
have 6 or 12K dimmer modules.
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DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
TIP!
To restore all slots to 2K (no offset), select SET DEFAULT, and press OK. Since this will overwrite
any 6/12K assignments previously made, you are prompted for a YES to confirm.
‘undo’ once YES is selected.
NO and press OK.
AMX START ADDRESS
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
Address setting affects only to the second AMX port. A typical application would have AMX 1-192
on port E and AMX 193-384 on port F. In this configuration you would set the start address as
193.
If the wrong dimmer responds to your AMX control, check the 6/12K assignments to
make sure that they are correct.
There is no
If you do not want to go ahead with restoring the default setting, select
has been provided with two AMX output ports (E & F). The Start
CONFIGURATION MEMORY
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
Flash memory. This type of memory storage makes possible to leave the unit in a powered down
state indefinitely with no loss of configuration data.
stores all of its user-configured operating parameters in non-volatile
DIAGNOSTICS
DMX Ultimate Converter
Your
output, or troubleshoot problems.
offers a number of powerful protocol tools that can help fine tune the
TWEAK OUTPUT
Tweak Output offers the user the ability to modify a number of DMX512 output timing parameters.
This can be especially useful to customize the output to conform to the special requirements of
some equipment. Start by selecting one of the three standard DMX speeds (fast, medium, slow)
from the Select Output Menu, then select Tweak Output from the Diagnostics Menu. You can tweak
any or any combination of, Break, Delay, or Mark (Mark-After-Break), by adjusting the value for each
one. Adjust one value at a time until the correct operation of the DMX receiving device is observed.
The resulting custom DMX speed can then be selected from the Select Output menu.
WARNING! Adjusting the output parameters may result in an unusable signal. Use
care when using Tweak Output. This function should only be used by someone who is
versed in communications protocols. If problems arise, it is best to re-select one of the
!
three standard DMX speeds from the Select Output Menu, and repeat the Tweak
Output process.
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DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
ANALYZE INPUT
Often, as a part of your troubleshooting process, you want to confirm that the console is providing
the output that you think it is! Analyze Input allows you monitor the input of the
Converter
Use the S or T to select the channel you wish to monitor. The level will be displayed as a value
from 1 to 255.
(the output from your console) one channel at a time.
◄ANALYZE INPUT ►
CHAN▲001▼ LEV000
USER OPTIONS
DMX Ultimate
User options allow you to configure your
DMX Ultimate Converter
to suit your preferences.
STATUS QUO
Status quo provides you with a safety net in the event the input data is interrupted. The input data
could be interrupted, for example, if the control console were inadvertently turned off. With the
status quo function enabled, your
the data was interrupted. Those levels are held for a duration you specify. If the incoming data is
not restored at the end of the status quo duration, the
output.
The status quo current setting is shown when the status quo option is selected. To change the
current setting, press OK. The status quo hold time is user selectable from 2 seconds up to 98
minutes. In addition, an infinite hold is available (NO END).
DMX Ultimate Converter
DMX Ultimate Converter
will hold the last levels received before
will turn off its
ABOUT
Use this menu item to determine the current software version running in the
Converter.
Check the Pathway Connectivity website periodically for updates.
DMX Ultimate
SECURITY
There may be situations where you do not want the settings of the
modified. The security feature allows you to lock out users from modifying any
Converter
Select Security from the Users Options menu. The current state of the security lockout will be
displayed.
To turn security on or off from this menu item, simply push and hold the OK button for approximately
2 seconds.
!
settings.
◄ SECURITY ►
SECURITY OFF
WARNING! This function is not intended to provide a high level of security. It is simply
provided as a flag to users that settings should not be casually modified, or a as a
deterrent to unauthorized users.
DMX Ultimate Converter
DMX Ultimate
8
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
RS232 LINK
The RS232 Link is used to update the
Ultimate Converter’
later in this manual for operation instructions.
OUTPUT TEST
Output test allows the Ultimate to directly control individual channels regardless of input.
◄ OUTPUT TEST ► SET CHAN LEVEL
Press OK to enter Output Test mode.
SET CHAN LEVEL
◄001► ▲255▼
Use the WXarrow keys to select the desired output channel, then use the ST keys to change the
intensity from 1-255. Use the WX keys to select the next channel, and so on. Press OK when you
wish to leave output test mode.
TIP!
To quickly change a channel level from zero to full, rather in than increasing the level
with the S key, press the T key instead and the level will change to 255.
DMX Ultimate Converter
software. See ‘Updating your
DMX
UPDATING YOUR DMX
Features, enhancements and updates for your
Connectivity ‘s website www.pathwayconnect.com.
WARNING! This function should only be undertaken by a qualified service technician,
versed in communications protocols. Contact the factory for operational details.
!
U
LTI MATE
DMX Ultimate Converter
CONVERTER
are available from Pathway
UPDATE PROCEDURE
To upgrade the DMX
• The update software package
• A serial cable – male 9-pin to either female 9-pin or male 25-pin depending on
your PC. This must be a "straight thru" cable not a null modem cable.
1. Check the existing version of software in the Converter. To do this cycle through the menu
to USER OPTIONS; Scroll down to ABOUT and press OK. Note the major version number –
i.e. V2.10 is version 2, V1.80 is version 1.
Ultimate
DANGER!
There is a risk of electric shock while performing this procedure. Do not touch the
circuit board with any object or body part with power applied. Be especially careful
around the left circuit board, as this is the power supply board. This is a procedure
for qualified personnel only.
Converter to the latest firmware you will require the following:
9
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
2. Unplug the Converter power cable.
3. Remove the eight cover screws and the top cover and set aside.
4. Connect the male 9-pin end of the serial connector to the 9-pin female connector on the
right side of the circuit board.
5. Connect the opposite end of the serial cable to the back of your PC -- Note the Com port
number.
6. Start the UPDATE.BAT file on the PC and enter the Com port number that the converter is
connected to.
7. Enter the current version (1 or 2) as noted in step 1.
8. Press and hold the OK button on the front of the Converter while plugging in the power
cable.
9. If the current version is version 2 skip to step 14.
10. This should bring up the 1.0 download utility on the PC. If not, see the troubleshooting tips
below.
11. Type L LOADERX2.HEX and press ENTER. It will take about a minute to download the
update.
12. Once the download is complete the converter should flash the display and error light.
13. Press Ctrl-C on the PC Keyboard to exit the Update utility.
14. After HyperTerminal loads, press the OK button on the converter. This should bring up the
2.0 download utility. If HyperTerminal does not load, see the troubleshooting tips below.
15. Type L to begin the download. A series of squares will begin to show up on the screen.
Select the Transfer Menu (ALT T) then Send File…
16. Enter ULTIMATE.UPD as the file name and select Xmodem as the protocol. Click the Send
button.
17. After the download is complete press S to start the converter. If the converter starts
unplug the converter, remove the serial cable and replace the cover and screws.
18. Plug in the converter and verify that the correct conversion mode is shown on the status
display. If not see
19. Check that the conversion Start Address is correct for your application (i.e. 001 for no
offset)
Troubleshooting Tips
that follow.
SOFTWARE UPDATE TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Problem Possible Solutions
No Download Screen Check that the converter display is blank during the download
Check the serial cable connections
Try selecting the other com port in UPDATE.BAT
Converter doesn't display status
after update
Retry the download procedure.
Converter doesn't convert
protocols after update
Unplug the converter and plug it back in.
Verify that the Start Address is correct.
10
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
Verify all input and output protocol settings.
HyperTerminal does not load Check that HyperTerminal is installed. If not, Install it from
your Windows CD-ROM
11
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
APPENDIX
CONNECTOR PINOUTS
The DMX Ultimate Converter has 6 ports labeled a-f representing the most common connector
types and pin assignments found in lighting control equip. In certain cases (e.g. MicroPlex, Kliegl and
AVAB) the connectors used by the manufacturers may differ from the connector type used on the
ultimate Converter. Please use the information shown below to make any required adapters.
DMX512
DMX Pin assignment
1 – Common (shield)
2 – Data –
3 – Data +
4 – Aux Data 5 – Aux Data +
ELECTRO-CONTROLS MUX (ECMUX)
PUSH
5
4
3
OUT (F) IN (M)
1
2
1
2
Port C Port A
5
4
3
ECMux 4/5 Pin assignment (output)
1 – Common (shield)
2 – Data –
3 – No Connection
4 – No Connection
5 – No Connection
COLORTRAN MUX (CMX)
CMX Pin assignment
1 – Common (shield)
2 – Data –
3 – Data +
4 – No Connection
5 – No Connection
AMX192 (XLR)
AMX XLR Pin assignment
1 – Common
2 – Clock +
3 – Analog
4 – Clock -
PUSH
4
32
1
OUT (F) IN (M)
1
Port A Port D
PUSH
5
4
3
1
2
OUT (F) IN (M)
1
2
Port A Port C
PUSH
4
32
1 4
IN (F) O UT (M)
1
Port D Ports E & F
4
32
5
4
3
32
12
DMX Ultimate Converter
AMX192
(Mini TA4) (Reference only, not used on the Ultimate Converter)
AMX Mini TA4 Pin assignement
1 – Clock 2 – Common
3 – Clock +
4 – Analog
STRAND D54
(model 8681 only)
Strand D54 Pin assignment
1 – Common
2 – No Connection
3 – Analog
MICROPLEX
PUSH
OUT (F) IN (M)
Port E Port D
User’s Manual
1
32
1
32
MicroPlex Pin assignment
1 – Common
2 – No Connection
3 – Analog
4 – No Connection
KLIEGL K96
Kliegl K96 Pin assignment
1 – Common (shield)
2 – Data 3 – Data +
4 – No Connection
5 – No Connection
AVAB
AVAB Pin assignment
1 – Common (shield)
2 – Data 3 – Data +
4 – Console Present (output only)
5 – No Connection
PUSH
4
32
IN (F) OUT (M)
1 4
1
Port E
PUSH
5
4
3
1
2
OUT (F) IN (M)
1
2
Port C Port A
PUSH
5
4
3
1
2
OUT (F) IN (M)
1
2
Port A Port C
32
5
4
3
5
4
3
13
DMX Ultimate Converter
User’s Manual
ANALOG MULTIPLEX INPUTS DISABLED
The
DMX Ultimate Converter
input protocols affected are AMX192, D54 and Microplex. Although the mode selection for these
inputs will permit their assignment, the unit hardware as shipped will not. If it is necessary to enable
analog multiplex inputs, the user must remove the top cover and move the 20-pin chip labeled
“Spare A/D Chip” to the U17 socket position. Care must be taken to ensure that the chip faces the
same direction as all others, and that no pins are bent when it is inserted.
T
ECHNICAL SUPPORT
Your first contact for support should be the dealer that provided your
However, you should also feel free to contact Pathway Technical Support if you need help.
9:00 – 5:00 (Mountain Time) Monday through Friday
+1 403-243-8110
support@pathwayconnect.com
is shipped with its analog multiplex
input
capability disabled. The 3
DMX Ultimate Converter
.
14
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