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COMPLETE
COMPLETE
COMPLETECOMPLETE
DMX MANAGEMENT
DMX MANAGEMENT
DMX MANAGEMENTDMX MANAGEMENT
System Design and
Layout Guide
SYNOPSIS
ADVANTAGES
Imagine a lighting system where operators easily patch DMX outlets to any
combination of DMX sources: main console, moving light console, special effects
console or even a handheld controller — and all active at the same time.
Imagine a future-proofed system that supports Remote Device Management
(RDM) and Architecture for Control Networks (ACN) right out of the box. Imagine
all of this at an installed cost of about half that of most other Ethernet-based DMX
distribution systems available.
Pathway Connectivity’s
and more — over a conventional Ethernet backbone.
•
Unprecedented operational flexibility — no rules!
•
Address up to 128 input universes — over 65,000 channels
•
Unlimited number of outputs
•
Supports all major DMX-over-Ethernet protocols: Net3/streaming ACN;
Pathport; Strand Shownet; ArtNet; ETC Net2 (as output)
•
Custom channel routing, plus merging and prioritization — all built in
•
Low cost, high performance nodes provide a competitive bid advantage for
systems integrators
•
LCD screen on each node allows ‘soft engraving’ as well as displaying DMX
status and diagnostics feedback
•
All one and two port nodes use Power-over-Ethernet to minimize wiring
•
Cable installation, testing and certification requirements that are readily
understood by a qualified communications wiring contractor
•
An installation can be completely configured and commissioned by a
systems integrator without special software, tools or training
Pathport®
DMX management system provides all this —
TYPICAL
SYSTEM
A Pathport system is, fundamentally, a method for distributing DMX512 data.
Input nodes should be located wherever consoles or remotes might be positioned:
in the booth, at the designer table, in the side stage or FOH. One input port is
required for each universe of DMX or each DMX input source.
Output nodes should be liberally placed throughout the facility, wherever DMX
may be required. Pathport I/O nodes can be located wherever both DMX input
and output access points are required.
Nodes are star-wired back to one or more Ethernet switches. Using a PC, also
connected to the switch, operators use
which DMX input signals get routed to which output nodes.
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Pathport Manager
software to configure
SYSTEM
SYSTEM
SYSTEM SYSTEM
DESIGN
DESIGN GUIDE
DESIGNDESIGN
GUIDE
GUIDE GUIDE
SYSTEM
COMPONENTS
Four elements must be considered when designing a Pathport system: the
Pathport nodes, the Ethernet backbone, the configuration interface and the
peripheral equipment to be connected. A generic layout is shown below, with DMX
signal in red and Pathport routing in blue.
Some peripherals, especially recent control consoles, are able to plug directly
into the Ethernet switch. However, designs should still include some input nodes to
allow for touring consoles, test equipment and other DMX-only sources.
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SYSTEM
SYSTEM
SYSTEM SYSTEM
DESIGN GUIDE
DESIGN GUIDE
DESIGN GUIDEDESIGN GUIDE
ETHERNET
WIRING
The success of a Pathport system relies on the proper installation of the network
wiring. Ethernet uses a star-wiring topology. Each device, in this case each
Pathport node, is wired directly back to a central switch. By wiring switches
together the network can be extended. Pathports operate at 10 and 100
megabits, so Cat5e wiring is sufficient. However, given the minor cost difference,
installing Cat6 wiring (meant for gigabit networks) will provide future-proofing.
More important at the planning stage is calculation of cable lengths. Ethernet
copper cable segments cannot be longer than 100m or 330 feet and standard
practice is to limit them to 90m. Fiber optic backbones are used where longer
runs are necessary, especially in outdoor applications. Media converters are
required between the fiber and copper portions of the network and external power
supplies may be necessary for the Pathport nodes.
Pathway strongly recommends the use of a certified network installer for all
wiring runs. A certified installer will test all wiring and connectors and should
provide a report stating the network meets the TIA/EIA-568 standard. Pathway
Connectivity may refuse or curtail technical support for equipment installed on
uncertified systems.
Although the hardware sections are dated, for further information on preferred
topologies, and labeling practices, we suggest ESTA’s Recommended Practice for
Ethernet Cabling Systems in Entertainment Lighting Applications
Ethernet Cabling Systems in Entertainment Lighting Applications and its
Ethernet Cabling Systems in Entertainment Lighting ApplicationsEthernet Cabling Systems in Entertainment Lighting Applications
Supplement
Supplement, both available at www.esta.org.
SupplementSupplement
Recommended Practice for
Recommended Practice for Recommended Practice for
ETHERNET
SWITCHES
The selection and configuration of the Ethernet switch is also critical to the performance of a Pathport system. In general, unmanaged or plug-and-play switches
are preferable to managed or enterprise switches, as long as they do not incorporate broadcast storm control or other forms of traffic management.
DMX-over-Ethernet protocols are multi-cast or broadcast protocols where one
source (typically a lighting console) sends a constant stream of information to all
the output nodes. Each output node determines which bits of information to use.
However, the management features of most enterprise switches are designed for
the uni-cast, one-to-one traffic of an office network. Broadcast traffic is treated as
an error and blocked - with disastrous effects during a show. Multi-cast filtering to
direct traffic can also wreak havoc. The usual solution is to turn these features off.
If possible the lighting network should be kept separate from other traffic, such
as sound networks (CobraNet, etc) or Internet traffic. If the network must be
shared, VLANing may be necessary and Pathway strongly recommends hiring network specialist to specify and configure the switches for such installations.
Another key specification for the switch is Power-over-Ethernet. Most switches
are now available with built-in PoE. All Pathport nodes, except the DMX Manager
Plus and the Octo, run on PoE, vastly simplifying wiring requirements. Without
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SYSTEM SYSTEM
DESIGN GUIDE
DESIGN GUIDE
DESIGN GUIDEDESIGN GUIDE
ETHERNET
SWITCHES
(cont’d)
WIRELESS
ETHERNET
ETHERNET
DESIGN TIPS
PoE, power outlets and wall transformers will be required at each node location.
Pathway has had success with the following switches (however, be aware these
manufacturers may change specifications without notice):
HP Procurve 2610-24PWR
Netgear FS108P - 8 ports, 4 powered
3COM 3CDSG10PWR (fanless)
Note:
Note: A Pathway-branded switch will be shipping in spring 2011.
Note:Note:
Wireless Ethernet involves significant additional network considerations, including
latency (transmission delay), bandwidth limitations, and network security. For best
results, Pathway recommends contacting an entertainment network technology
company specializing in wireless Ethernet, such as Interactive Technologies. For
wireless DMX, we suggest City Theatrical.
However, the general rule still holds: Hardwire whenever possible.
•
DMX-over-Ethernet only requires speeds up to 100 Mbits, but Cat6 wiring
provides future-proofing
•
Include at least one Ethernet access point for a laptop to run the configuration software
•
Install RJ45 jacks in locations where portable or pipe-mountable nodes
may be used
•
Observe Ethernet wiring rules and the100m cable segment limit
•
PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) should be specified as an absolute requirement
•
Hard-wiring is preferable to wireless
PATHPORT
NODES
Each Pathport consists of one or more ports, with each port being independently
configurable. Choose the best form factor for the job, without sacrificing features.
Pathport Uno
Pathport Uno
Pathport UnoPathport Uno
An elegant, single-gang backbox design provides one universe of DMX input or
output, with all the soft patch features available in other styles. With unobtrusive
LED indicators for DMX present and network activity, the Uno is ideal for use in
public-accessible locations or where a low-cost, single port node is needed. Requires Power-over-Ethernet. The Uno offers an output-side channel patch on a
Net2 system - not available anywhere else! Also available in a portable enclosure.
Pathport eDIN
Pathport eDIN
Pathport eDINPathport eDIN
A single-port node in a DIN-rail mountable form - the Pathport eDIN is ideal for
enclosure use. Output is user-switchable between a standard DMX pinout and the
Color Kinetics wiring scheme.
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PATHPORT
NODES
(cont’d)
PATHPORT C
PATHPORT C ---- SERIES
PATHPORT C PATHPORT C
SERIES
SERIES SERIES
The most popular 2-port Pathport. Fitting into a 2-gang,
deep masonry box, the C-series provides flush-mounting,
with surface mount or portable boxes as an option.
2-input, 2-output or input/output are available - although
any port can be configured to run in either direction. The
LCD screen reports if DMX is active, and can also display
system-specific labels, such as node location or purpose.
Typically used wherever flush-mount is preferred, at both control and output locations, the discrete design will not seem out of place in any room.
PATHPORT D
PATHPORT D ---- SERIES
PATHPORT D PATHPORT D
SERIES
SERIES SERIES
A surface-mount enclosure intended for retro-fits next to dimmer racks, or for
installation in utility closets and other controlled access locations. Ethernet and
DMX wiring can be conduit-fed straight to the box and land on integral terminal
blocks inside. Provides two ports of input, output, or one of each.
PATHPORT R
PATHPORT R ---- SERIES
PATHPORT R PATHPORT R
SERIES
SERIES SERIES
The R-series provides 2 ports in a rack-mountable form. Two Pathport R nodes
will fit side-by side within one RU of rack space making for compact installation.
Rack ears are included.
Available with XLR5 or terminal block connectors, with a front connector adapters as an accessory. Truss yoke also available.
DMX MANAGER PLUS
DMX MANAGER PLUS
DMX MANAGER PLUSDMX MANAGER PLUS
The DMX Manager Plus is a full-featured 4-port DMX router - ideal as a gateway
on or off of an Ethernet backbone. It also can act as a stand-alone DMX merger,
prioritizer, and signal router. All features can be configured from the front panel or
by using Pathport Manager software.
Each port has both a male and female connector with the unused connector available as a pass through. An integrated Ethernet switch allows multiple boxes to
chained together. The Manager Plus takes up one RU of space and ships with rack
ears. The universal power supply accepts voltages between 85 and 240 VAC. The
Manager Plus does not support Net2.
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PATHPORT
NODES
(cont’d)
SYSTEM
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Pathport Octo
Pathport Octo
Pathport OctoPathport Octo
The newest Pathport model, the Octo offers eight ports of input or output or any
combination in between. With all the features and flexibility Pathports are renowned for, the one RU design is also the perfect building block for replacing aging
Pathfinder systems.
Pathport Touring Edition
Pathport Touring Edition
Pathport Touring EditionPathport Touring Edition
The Pathport TE fills a need in the rental and touring markets for a robust oneport node. Sporting an IP54 rating and a battery-powered user interface, all input
and output parameters are easily configured using just three buttons. DMX and
RDM testing tools are also accessible from the front panel, eliminating the need to
boot up a computer to trouble shoot a rig.
PATHPORT
DESIGN
NOTES
CONFIGURATION
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Include enough Pathport input nodes for the anticipated maximum number
of DMX sources—up to 128 input universes are possible
•
Each output can merge/prioritize up to 8 input universe streams
•
Specify 2-gang deep masonry boxes for C-Series nodes
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Specify Power-over-Ethernet for systems using one and two-port nodes
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Pathport nodes support all major DMX-over-Ethernet protocols: Net3/
streaming ACN; Pathport; Strand Shownet; ArtNet—so the choice of console isn’t dictated by the DMX distribution
•
All one and two-port nodes support Net2 (as outputs)
•
Choose the best form for the job—without sacrificing features
•
Each port on any node can be configured independently for signal direction,
DMX speed, signal loss behaviour, and channel patch
Pathport Manager 5
Pathport Manager 5
Pathport Manager 5Pathport Manager 5
All Pathport nodes are easily configured using Pathport Manager 5 software - a
free download from the Pathway website. Pathport Manager is a Java-based
program that is operating-system independent. It will discover the nodes
connected to the network and allows easy configuration of node parameters, such
as IP address, node name and Ethernet transmit and receive protocols, as well as
reporting the node’s firmware version and signal status. Backlights can be turned
on and off via the software as well.
Pathport Manager also gives access to port-specific parameters such as signal
direction, channel patch and speed. Individual ports can be named according to
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CONFIGURATION
(cont’d)
FIRMWARE
FEATURES
location or use. Showfiles, including all node configuration and channel
patches ,can be saved and edited off-line as CSV files. Patches can be written and
saved independent of the nodes, simplifying system management and changeovers
between show-specific patches. DMX Console and Monitor tools facilitate signal
trouble-shooting, while IP reporting and error logging help resolve network issues.
Pathport Manager also manages firmware upgrades and boot-up behavior and
provides configuration support to some Strand and Entertainment Technology
products incorporating Pathport Ethernet technology.
The latest version, version 5, is now available on the website. Version 3 is still
required to update nodes running some older firmware versions.
•
Customize each output universe using up to eight input streams
•
Automatically merge different Ethernet protocols
•
Crossfade between prioritized sources on loss or gain of signal, and on a
user-specified time
•
Streaming ACN “magic channel” allows operator to choose which source is
active
•
Streaming ACN input priority scheme fully supported
•
Set DMX output speed on a per-port basis
•
Signal loss behaviour can be set port-by-port
•
Each port is able to act as RDM proxy—or disable RDM port-by-port
•
Nodes accept any valid IPv4 address and subnet mask arrangement
PERIPHERALS
SYSTEM
COMMISSIONING
A Pathport system is a DMX distribution network. Once commissioned, most
problems that arise are with the signal source and its show programming or with
failures of the end gear. Because DMX does not have error reporting capabilities,
trouble shooting is typically based on error isolation.
Most modern lighting consoles can connect directly to the nodes via the Ethernet
switch, and must share the correct IP address and subnet mask configuration
with the nodes in order to function correctly.
Pathports arrive from the factory with a unique IP address in the 10.x.x.x domain
with a class A subnet mask. By default, Port A is set to universe one, Port B is set
to universe two and so on. Signal path testing is as simple as plugging a DMX
source into an input port, and checking that the corresponding output ports
become active, as reported on each LCD display. Commissioning is that simple.
More sophisticated or detailed configuration is readily done by connecting a
computer to the network, setting the IP address of its network interface card to
the 10.x.x.x domain (and subnet 255.0.0.0) and running Pathport Manager 5.
Because configuration is retained by the nodes, Pathports can easily be preconfigured in the shop prior to shipping and installation on-site. A great deal of
time and expense can be saved this way.
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SYSTEM COMPONENTS & LIST PRICING
Model
Model Model Description
Model Model
Model Description MSRP
Model DescriptionModel Description
MSRP
MSRPMSRP
1011 eDIN Pathport Uno $430
6001 Single node inline power supply 75
6010 Pathport Manager Configuration Software on CD 50
6101 Pathport Uno, Single DMX input node with cover 420
6102 Pathport Uno, Single DMX output node with cover 420
6151 Pathport Uno, Single DMX input with Portable Enclosure and bracket 500
6152 Pathport Uno, Single DMX output with Portable Enclosure and bracket 500
6182 Pathport Touring Edition 520
6201 Pathport C-series node with 2 DMX inputs (XLR5M) 790
6202 Pathport C-series node with 2 DMX outputs (XLR5F) 790
6203 Pathport C-series node with 1 DMX input and 1 DMX output (XLR5M/F) 790
6225 Pathport D-series node with 2 DMX ports (terminals) and backbox 920
6235 Pathport R-series node with 2 DMX ports (terminal strips) 920
6241 Pathport R-series node with 2 DMX inputs (XLR5M) 920
6242 Pathport R-series node with 2 DMX outputs (XLR5F) 920
6243 Pathport R-series node with 1 DMX input and 1 DMX output (XLR5M/F) 920
6301 Pathway DMX Manager Plus 4-port node (XLR5) 1500
6302 Pathway DMX Manager Plus 4-port node (terminal strips) 1500
6401 Pathport Octo with rear XLR (F) (Q1—2010) 2100
6402 Pathport Octo with rear terminal strips (Q1—2010) 2100
6403 Pathport Octo with front XLR (F) (Q1—2010) 2100
6900 Uno Surface Mount Enclosure (w/ knockouts) 40
6901 C-series Surface Mount Enclosure (w/ knockouts) 60
6911 C-series Portable Enclosure with hanging bracket 110
6913 R-series Truss mount kit 60
6931 R-series front connectors adaptor kit – inputs (XLR5M) 60
6932 R-series front connectors adaptor kit – outputs (XLR5F) 60
6933 R-series front connectors adaptor kit – input/output (XLR5M/F) 60
6950 RJ45 female in-line mini-jack and M-M RJ45 jumper kit 20
Notes:
Prices in US$, subject to change without notice.
Pathport Unos are available in black or stainless steel finish - add BL or SS to specify
Pathport Manager 5 configuration software is available as a free download from our website
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(403) 243-8110 Fax (403) 287-1281
www.pathwayconnect.com
R11/3/10
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