DMX Merge V2
Highlite International B.V. – Vestastraat 2 – 6468 EX – Kerkrade – the Netherlands
Ordercode: 50359
MANUAL
ENGLISH
Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Table of contents
Warning ............................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Unpacking Instructions ................................................................................................................................................. 2
Safety Instructions ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Operating Determinations .......................................................................................................................................... 3
Connection with the mains......................................................................................................................................... 4
Return Procedure .......................................................................................................................................................... 4
Claims .............................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Description of the device ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Overview ........................................................................................................................................................................ 5
Backside ......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Installation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Set Up and Operation ....................................................................................................................................................... 6
Control Modes ............................................................................................................................................................... 7
1. HTP mode (Highest Takes Precedence) ............................................................................................................... 7
2. Backup mode............................................................................................................................................................ 7
3. Merge mode ............................................................................................................................................................. 8
4. LTP mode (Latest Takes Precedence) .................................................................................................................. 9
DMX Address Quick Reference chart .....................................................................................................................10
Fixture Linking ...............................................................................................................................................................11
Data Cabling ...............................................................................................................................................................11
Connection Cables .........................................................................................................................................................11
Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................................................12
Troubleshooting ...............................................................................................................................................................12
No Light .........................................................................................................................................................................12
No Response to DMX..................................................................................................................................................12
Product Specifications ....................................................................................................................................................14
Dimensions ........................................................................................................................................................................15
Notes ..................................................................................................................................................................................16
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Your shipment includes:
Showtec DMX Merge
DMX Merge with 2m powercable
User manual
Warning
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving this product, carefully unpack the carton and check the contents to ensure
that all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the dealer immediately and
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture must be
returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box and packing.
Safety Instructions
Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device has to:
be qualified
follow the instructions of this manual
Before your initial start-up, please make sure that there is no damage caused by transportation. Should
there be any, consult your dealer and do not use the device.
To maintain perfect condition and to ensure a safe operation, it is absolutely necessary for the user to
follow the safety instructions and warning notes written in this manual.
Please consider that damages caused by manual modifications to the device are not subject to
warranty.
This device contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer servicing to qualified technicians only.
IMPORTANT:
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual or any unauthorized modification to the device.
Never let the power cord come into contact with other cables! Handle the power cord and all
connections with the mains with particular caution!
Never remove warning or informative labels from the unit.
Never use anything to cover the ground contact.
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DMX Merge
Never use the device during thunderstorms, unplug the device immediately.
Never leave various parts of the packaging (plastic bags, polystyrene foam, nails, etc.) within
children’s reach, as they are potential sources of danger.
Never leave any cables lying around.
Do not insert objects into air vents.
Do not open the device and do not modify the device.
Do not connect this device to a dimmerpack.
Do not switch the device on and off in short intervals, as this would reduce the device’s life.
Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
Only use device indoor, avoid contact with water or other liquids.
Only operate the fixture after having checked that the housing is firmly closed and all screws are
tightly fastened.
Only operate the device after having familiarized with its functions.
Avoid flames and do not put close to flammable liquids or gases.
Always keep case closed while operating.
Always disconnect power from the mains, when device is not used or before cleaning! Only handle
the power cord by the plug. Never pull out the plug by tugging the power cord.
Make sure that the device is not exposed to extreme heat, moisture or dust.
Make sure that the available voltage is not higher than stated on the rear panel.
Make sure that the power cord is never crimped or damaged. Check the device and the power
cord from time to time.
The cable insert or the female part in the device must never be strained. There must always be
sufficient cable to the device. Otherwise, the cable may be damaged which may lead to deadly
electrical shocks.
If the external cable is damaged, it has to be replaced by a qualified technician.
If device is dropped or struck, disconnect mains power supply immediately. Have a qualified
engineer inspect for safety before operating.
If the device has been exposed to drastic temperature fluctuation (e.g. after transportation), do not
switch it on immediately. The arising condensation water might damage your device. Leave the
device switched off until it has reached room temperature.
If your Showtec device fails to work properly, discontinue use immediately. Pack the unit securely
(preferably in the original packing material), and return it to your Showtec dealer for service.
For adult use only. Device must be installed out of the reach of children. Never leave the unit running
unattended.
For replacement use fuses of same type and rating only.
The user is responsible for correct positioning and operating of the DMX Merge. The manufacturer will
not accept liability for damages caused by the misuse or incorrect installation of this device.
This device falls under protection class I. Therefore it is essential to connect the yellow/green
conductor to earth.
Repairs, servicing and electric connection must be carried out by a qualified technician.
WARRANTY: Till one year after date of purchase.
Operating Determinations
This device is not designed for permanent operation. Consistent operation breaks will ensure that the
device will serve you for a long time without defects.
The minimum distance between light-output and the illuminated surface must be more than 1 meter.
The maximum ambient temperature ta = 40°C must never be exceeded.
The relative humidity must not exceed 50 % with an ambient temperature of 40° C.
If this device is operated in any other way, than the one described in this manual, the product may
suffer damages and the warranty becomes void.
Any other operation may lead to dangers like short-circuit, burns, electric shock, crash etc.
You endanger your own safety and the safety of others!
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
International
EU Cable
UK Cable
US Cable
Pin
L
BROWN
RED
YELLOW/COPPER
PHASE
N
BLUE
BLACK
SILVER
NEUTRAL
YELLOW/GREEN
GREEN
GREEN
PROTECTIVE GROUND
Return Procedure
Connection with the mains
Connect the device to the mains with the power-plug.
Always pay attention, that the right color cable is connected to the right place.
Make sure that the device is always connected properly to the earth!
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property!
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Authorization Number (RMA number). Products returned
without an RMA number will be refused. Highlite will not accept the returned goods or any responsibility.
Call Highlite 0031-455667723 or mail aftersales@highlite.nl and request an RMA prior to shipping the fixture.
Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause for the
return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate packaging is the
customer’s responsibility. Highlite reserves the right to use its own discretion to repair or replace
product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe method to use.
Note: If you are given an RMA number, please include the following information on a piece of paper
inside the box:
01) Your name.
02) Your address.
03) Your phone number.
04) A brief description of the symptoms.
Claims
The client has the obligation to check the delivered goods immediately upon delivery for any shortcomings and/or visible defects, or perform this check after our announcement that the goods are at their
disposal. Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise.
It is the customer's responsibility to notify and submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is
damaged due to shipping. Transportation damage has to be reported to us within one day after receipt
of the delivery.
Any return shipment has to be made post-paid at all times. Return shipments must be accompanied with
a letter defining the reason for return shipment. Non-prepaid return shipments will be refused, unless
otherwise agreed in writing.
Complaints against us must be made known in writing or by fax within 10 working days after receipt of the
invoice. After this period complaints will not be handled anymore.
Complaints will only then be considered if the client has so far complied with all parts of the agreement,
regardless of the agreement of which the obligation is resulting.
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Fig. 01
Description of the device
Features
The DMX Merge is a 2-way DMX merge from Showtec:
• Allows you to combine two DMX controllers to one DMX line or to use a second desk as back-up desk.
• The unit has 4 modes:
1) HTP (High Take Precedence) In this case you can use two similar desks with the same addressing on
one line. The DMX controller with the highest value has priority.
2) Back-up mode. The unit is connected to two DMX desks. Channel A has priority. Once
channel A fails or has no DMX channel B takes over the show.
3) Merge mode. Two desks can be merged on one line. E.g. you can run a scene setter and
DMX operator on one line. The Scene Setter will operate on channel 1-96 and the DMX
Operator will have the channels 97 and higher. These positions can be freely addressed by the
dip-switches.
4) LTP (Latest Take Precedence) In this case you can use two similar desks with the same
addressing on one line. The DMX controller with the latest change has priority.
• Voltage: 230V
• Power Requirement: DC 9V, 300 mA Min. (AC/DC adapter included)
• DMX Input: two 3-pin XLR male sockets on the front panel
• Extra: two 3-pin XLR male sockets on the rear panel
• DMX output: two 3-pin XLR female sockets on the front panel
• Extra one 3-pin XLR female sockets on the rear panel
• Dimensions: 483 x 73 x 44,5 mm (LxWxH)
• Weight: 1,15 Kg
NOTE: Knowledge of DMX is required to fully utilize this unit.
Overview
01) ON / OFF-Switch
02) Power Indicator
03) DMX (A) Indicator
04) DMX (B) Indicator
05) DMX IN (A), 3 pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket used to receive DMX signals.
06) DMX IN (B), 3 pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket used to receive DMX signals.
07) DMX OUT 3 pin DMX OUT connector: XLR female socket used to send DMX signals.
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DMX Merge
Fig. 03
Backside
08) DMX OUT, 3-pin DMX OUT connector: XLR female socket used to send DMX signals.
09) DMX IN (B) 3-pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket used to receive DMX signals.
10) DMX IN (A) 3-pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket used to receive DMX signals.
11) DMX Dip-Switches for addressing
12) MODE Dip-Switches
13) Power input: AC230V ~ 50Hz, 0.5A
Installation
Remove all packing materials from the DMX Merge. Check if all foam and plastic padding is removed.
Connect all cables.
Do not supply power before the whole system is set up and connected properly.
Always disconnect from electric mains power supply before cleaning or servicing.
Damages caused by non-observance are not subject to warranty.
Set Up and Operation
Follow the directions below, as they pertain to your preferred operation mode.
Before plugging the unit in, always make sure that the power supply matches the product specification
voltage. Do not attempt to operate a 120V specification product on 230V power, or vice versa.
Connect the device to the main power supply.
01) Before operation, make sure that the present power & DMX setup connection are correct.
02) Connect the cables of lighting control devices to the male DMX Input interfaces and the cable of
dimmer to female DMX Output interface in this unit.
03) Do not supply power before the whole system is set up and connected properly.
04) When you turn the Power switch on, the Power indicator will be on, indicating that no power errors
occurs in this unit.
05) When two DMX signals are present, both DMX indicators A and B will light up to indicate 2 way signal
input.
Note: If only one way signal input is available, the relative DMX indicator A/B will light up.
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
HTP mode
Backup mode
Merge mode
LTP mode
Control Modes
FUNCTIONS:
There are 4 modes: 1) HTP mode (Highest Takes Precedence)
2) Backup mode
3) Merge mode
4) LTP mode (Latest Takes Precedence)
1. HTP mode (Highest Takes Precedence)
01) Set MODE Dipswitch #1 and #2 to ON.
02) When 2 DMX signals are present, the highest level between two DMX signals will take precedence
and override the other DMX signal.
2. Backup mode
01) Set MODE Dipswitch #1 to OFF and Dipswitch #2 to ON.
02) When DMX signal A is available, it will occupy the DMX output. When DMX signal A is not available,
DMX signal B will take the place of A.
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DMX Merge
3. Merge mode
01) Set MODE Dipswitch #1 to ON and Dipswitch #2 to OFF.
02) The MERGE mode allows the unit to combine the output of two DMX sources. You can merge DMX
signals A and B into a new one for DMX output by using dipswitches #1-#9. In this case you must set
the DMX starting address in the Merge mode.
03) Dipswitch #10 is not used
Example
DMX output channels 1-24 will be controlled by DMX channel 1-24 from device A (showmaster 24).
The 25th DMX output channel will be controlled by the 1st DMX channel from device B (scanmaster 2).
In this way, the two signals can be merged into one signal output.
Total output channels is 216CH.
Note : If you set dipswitch #1 to ON and the other dipswitches to OFF, the entire DMX channel output will
be started by the 1st DMX channel from device B.
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Phantom 50
Address Value
DMX Dip Switches "ON"
Unit 5
53
#1 , #3, #5, #6
Switch
Value
#1 1
#4 4 16
#5
32
+
Total sum
53
4. LTP mode (Latest Takes Precedence)
01) Set MODE Dipswitch #1 to OFF and Dipswitch #2 to ON.
02) When 2 DMX signals are present, primarily the DMX signal of the A will take precedence and override
the DMX signal of B.
03) If both DMX signals are not changing at all, DMX signal of A will take precedence and override the
DMX signal of B.
04) If only DMX signal of B is changing, DMX signal of A will NOT take precedence, unless DMX signal of A
begins to change.
Example
DMX products must have their own "address" to receive DMX signals. Addresses on the controller are set
by flipping the appropriate Dipswitches #1 - #9:
Example:
01) If you want to give a Phantom 50 DMX address 133, you first have to find the number 133 in the DMX
Chart. (See page 9)
02) Then look at the left side (Dip Switches #1-#5) horizontally from 133.
In the Table you’ll see #1=ON, #2=OFF, #3=ON, #4=OFF, #5=OFF.
03) Finally look at the upper side of the table (Dip Switches #6-#9) vertically from 133.
In the Table you’ll see #6=OFF, #7=OFF, #8=ON, #9=OFF.
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DMX Merge
DMX Address Quick Reference chart
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DMX Merge
Important:
Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line. To comply with the
EIA-485 standard no more than 30 devices should be connected on one data link.
Connecting more than 30 fixtures on one serial data link without the use of a DMX optically
isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal.
Maximum recommended DMX data link distance: 100 meters
Maximum recommended number of fixtures on a DMX data link: 30 fixtures
Fixture Linking
You will need a serial data link to run light shows of one or more fixtures using a DMX-512 controller or to
run synchronized shows on two or more fixtures set to a master/slave operating mode. The combined
number of channels required by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number of fixtures the
data link can support.
Data Cabling
To link fixtures together, you must obtain data cables. You can purchase DAP Audio certified DMX cables
directly from a dealer/distributor or construct your own cable. If you choose to create your own cable
please use data-grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to electromagnetic
interference.
DAP Audio DMX Data Cables
• DAP Audio Basic microphone cable for allround use. bal. XLR/M 3-pin > XLR/F 3-pin.
Ordercode FL01150 (1,5 m), FL013 (3 m), FL016 (6 m), FL0110 (10 m), FL0115 (15 m), FL0120 (20 m).
• DAP Audio X-type data cable XLR/M 3-pin > XLR/F 3-pin. Ordercode FLX0175 (0,75 m),
FLX01150 (1,5 m), FLX013 (3 m), FLX016 (6 m), FLX0110 (10 m).
• DAP Audio cable for the demanding user with exceptional audio-qualities and connector made by
Neutrik®. Ordercode FL71150 (1,5 m), FL713 (3 m), FL716 (6 m), FL7110 (10 m).
• DAP Audio cable for the demanding user with exceptional audio-qualities and connector made by
Neutrik®. Ordercode FL7275 (0,75 m), FL72150 (1,5 m), FL723 (3 m), FL726 (6 m), FL7210 (10 m).
• DAP Audio 110 Ohm cable with digital signal transmission. Ordercode FL0975 (0,75 m),
FL09150 (1,5 m), FL093 (3 m), FL096 (6 m), FL0910 (10 m), FL0915 (15 m), FL0920 (20 m).
Connection Cables
Take care of the connector cables, always holding them by the connectors and avoiding knots and
twists when coiling them: This gives the advantage of increasing their life and reliability, which is always to
your advantage. Periodically check that your cables are in good condition, that they are correctly wired
and that all their contacts are perfectly efficient: a great number of problems are caused entirely by
using unsuitable or faulty cables.
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Maintenance
The operator has to make sure that safety-related and machine-technical installations are to be
inspected by an expert after every year in the course of an acceptance test.
The operator has to make sure that safety-related and machine-technical installations are to be
inspected by a skilled person once a year.
The following points have to be considered during the inspection:
01) All screws used for installing the device or parts of the device have to be tightly connected and
must not be corroded.
02) There may not be any deformations on housings, fixations and installation spots.
03) Mechanically moving parts like axles, eyes and others may not show any traces of wearing.
04) The electric power supply cables must not show any damages or material fatigue.
The Showtec DMX Merge requires almost no maintenance. However, you should keep the unit clean.
Disconnect the mains power supply, and then wipe the cover with a damp cloth. Do not immerse in
liquid. Do not use alcohol or solvents.
Keep connections clean. Disconnect electric power, and then wipe the DMX and audio connections
with a damp cloth. Make sure that the connections are thoroughly dry before linking equipment or
supplying electric power.
Troubleshooting
This troubleshooting guide is meant to help solve simple problems.
If a problem occurs, carry out the steps below in sequence until a solution is found. Once the unit
operates properly, do not carry out following steps.
No Light
If the DMX Merge does not operate properly, refer servicing to a technician.
Suspect two potential problem areas: the power supply, the LEDs.
01) Power supply. Check if the unit is plugged into an appropriate power supply.
02) The LEDs. Return the DMX Merge to your Showtec dealer.
03) A LED effect does not respond to the DMX Merge: Check the DMX-address of the fixture and the
controller. Make sure that they match. Make sure that the connections are correct.
04) If all of the above appears to be O.K., plug the unit in again.
05) If nothing happens after 30 seconds, unplug the device.
06) If you are unable to determine the cause of the problem, do not open the DMX Merge, as this may
damage the unit and the warranty will become void.
07) Return the device to your Showtec dealer.
No Response to DMX
Response: Suspect the DMX cable or connectors, a controller malfunction, a light effect DMX card
malfunction.
01) Check the DMX setting. Make sure that DMX addresses are correct.
02) Check the DMX cable: Unplug the unit; change the DMX cable; then reconnect to electrical power.
Try your DMX control again.
03) Determine whether the controller or light effect is at fault. Does the controller operate properly with
other DMX products? If not, take the controller in for repair. If so, take the DMX cable and the light
effect to a qualified technician.
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DMX Merge
Problem
Probable cause(s)
Solution
One or more
fixtures do not
function at all
No power to the fixture
• Check if power is switched on and
cables are plugged in
Fixtures reset
correctly, but all
respond
erratically or not
at all to the
controller
The controller is not connected.
• Connect controller.
3-pin XLR Out of the controller
does not match XLR Out of the first
fixture on the link (i.e. signal is
reversed)
• Install a phase reversing cable
between the controller and the
first fixture on the link
Fixtures reset
correctly, but
some respond
erratically or not
at all to the
controller
Poor data quality
• Check data quality. If much lower
than 100 percent, the problem
may be a bad data link
connection, poor quality or
broken cables, missing termination
plug, or a defective fixture
disturbing the link
Bad data link connection
• Inspect connections and cables.
Correct poor connections. Repair
or replace damaged cables
Data link not terminated with 120
Ohm termination plug
• Insert termination plug in output
jack of the last fixture on the link
Incorrect addressing of the fixtures
• Check address setting
One of the fixtures is defective and
disturbs data transmission on the
link
• Bypass one fixture at a time until
normal operation is restored:
unplug both connectors and
connect them directly together.
• Have the defective fixture
serviced by a qualified technician
3-pin XLR Out on the fixtures does
not match (pins 2 and 3 reversed)
• Install a phase-reversing cable
between the fixtures or swap pin 2
and 3 in the fixture that behaves
erratically
No light or LEDs
cuts out
intermittently
Fixture is too hot
• Allow the fixture to cool down
• Clean the fan
• Make sure air vents at control
panel and front lens are not
blocked
• Turn up the air conditioning
LEDs damaged
• Disconnect the fixture and return it
to your dealer
The power supply settings do not
match local AC voltage and
frequency
• Disconnect fixture. Check settings
and correct if necessary
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Model:
DMX Merge
Voltage:
230V
Power Requirement
DC 9V, 300 mA Min. (AC/DC adapter included)
Input Voltage:
DC 9Volt - 500mA
Dimensions:
483 x 73 x 44,5 mm (LxWxH)
1HE (3U) 19" rack mount
Weight:
1,15 kg
Operation and Programming
Signal pin OUT:
pin 1 earth, pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)
FRONT
DMX Input:
2x 3 pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket
1x 3 pin DMX OUT connector: XLR female socket
BACK
DMX Input:
2x 3 pin DMX IN connector: XLR male socket
1x 3 pin DMX OUT connector: XLR female socket
DMX output:
two 3-pin XLR female sockets on the front panel
Signal input:
3-pin XLR signal connector IN (male)
Signal output:
3-pin XLR signal connector OUT (female)
Allows you to combine two DMX controllers to one DMX line or to use a second desk as back-up desk
The unit has 4 modes
HTP (High Take Precedence)
Back-up mode
Merge mode
LTP (Latest Take Precedence)
Max. ambient temperature ta:
40°C
Minimum distance:
Minimum distance to lighted object:
1 m
Product Specifications
Design and product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
Website: www.Showtec.info
Email: service@highlite.nl
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Ordercode: 50359
DMX Merge
Dimensions
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DMX Merge
Notes
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DMX Merge
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DMX Merge
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©2015 Showtec
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