Techni-Lux DL-BAR10C5MM User Manual

Information specifically for:

DL-BAR10C5MM

This manual contains important information.

Please read before operating fixture.

v1.0

Copyright 2010 Techni-Lux, Inc.

2

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Save original packing and documentation for warranty, service and return issues.

Limited Warranty: This warranty covers defects or malfunctions in this equipment. This warranty lasts
for a period of one year from date of purchase. It is the owner’s responsibility to provide invoices for
proof of purchase, purchase date and dealer or distributor. If purchase date can not be provided,
warranty period will start at manufacture date. It is the sole discretion of Techni-Lux to repair or replace
parts or equipment. All shipping will be paid by purchaser. This warranty does not cover lamps, fuses,
belts, power semiconductors, relays, cleaning, standard maintenance adjustments or normal wear items
or any problem resulting from the following: improper wiring, incorrect voltage (including low or over
voltage conditions and lightning), abuse, misuse, improper maintenance or an act of God or damage
resulting from shipping. Warranty will be null and void if the product is altered, modified, misused,
damaged, or subjected to unauthorized repairs. Lamps are covered by relevant manufacturer warranty.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to
state. Any liability for consequential and incidental damages is expressly disclaimed. No other warranty,
expressed or implied is made. Techni-Lux liability in all events is limited to, and shall not exceed, the
purchase price paid.

Returning equipment and Repairs: All returns must be accompanied by a Return Merchandise
Authorization (RMA) number and sent pre-paid. Contact the dealer or Techni-Lux directly to obtain an
RMA. The RMA number must be clearly listed on the shipping label. Due care must be exercised in
packing all merchandise to be returned. All repairs must be accompanied by a written explanation of the
claimed problem or error encountered. Techni-Lux is solely responsible for determining a product’s
eligibility for coverage under warranty. If returning for consideration of credit, all accessories and
documentation, original protective material and cartons must be included and the equipment, packing
and carton must be in new resalable condition. Credit for returned merchandise will be issued at the
lowest current price and is subject to a restocking fee. No returns accepted on discontinued items.
Techni-Lux is not responsible for merchandise damaged in transit and reserves the right to refuse any
return that is damaged by the carrier, not accompanied by a Return Authorization Number (RMA#) or
sent by freight collect.

Claims: All claims must be made within seven (7) days of receipt of merchandise. Any physical damage
must be reported to carrier upon receipt of merchandise.

Please record the following information for future reference:
Model Number (circle): DL-BAR10C5MM

Serial Number: ________________________________________

Dealer: ______________________________________________

Date of Purchase: ______________________________________

www.Techni-Lux.com

3

Table of Contents

Specifications............................................................................................................................. 5

Fixture Overview ................................................................................................................... 5

Physical ................................................................................................................................ 5

Environmental....................................................................................................................... 5

Electrical ............................................................................................................................... 5

Control .................................................................................................................................. 5

Optics.................................................................................................................................... 5

Rigging.................................................................................................................................. 5

Unpacking................................................................................................................................... 6

Power .......................................................................................................................................... 6

Mounting..................................................................................................................................... 7

Basic Reference ......................................................................................................................... 7

Setup and Operation Modes (LCD Display) ............................................................................. 7

Control Panel Menu Navigation................................................................................................ 8

Menu Definitions and Functions ............................................................................................... 9

Auto Run Operation .............................................................................................................. 9

Static Color Operation .......................................................................................................... 9

Slave Operation .................................................................................................................... 9

Sound Active Operation........................................................................................................ 9

Software Version .................................................................................................................. 9

DMX-512 Control ...................................................................................................................... 10

DMX Data Connection............................................................................................................ 10

Data Terminator ..................................................................................................................... 11

Adapter 5-to-3 pin................................................................................................................... 11

DMX Start Address................................................................................................................. 11

DMX Channel Overview ........................................................................................................... 12

DMX Channel Layout ............................................................................................................. 12

3 channels .............................................................................................................................. 12

5 channels .............................................................................................................................. 12

8 channels .............................................................................................................................. 12

14 channels ............................................................................................................................ 12

24 channels ............................................................................................................................ 12

26 channels ............................................................................................................................ 13

DMX Channel Table ................................................................................................................. 13

Dimmer, Internal Programs and Function DMX Values ...................................................... 14

Speed DMX Values ............................................................................................................ 14

Maintenance ............................................................................................................................. 15

Accessory Items (sold separately) ......................................................................................... 15

Troubleshooting....................................................................................................................... 16

DMX-512 Background .............................................................................................................. 16

4

Specifications

Fixture Overview

• RGB color segments with intensity and strobe effects

• 384 ultra bright 5mm LEDs: 128 red, 128 green, 128 blue

• Long Life LED light source

• Controllable as one bar or in 8 sections

• Operating modes: DMX, Color Changing, Sound Active, Master/Slave

• Floor standing with side brackets or hanging

• Beam angle: approximately 30 degrees

• DMX512 using up to 26 channels maximum

• DMX input/output via 3 pin XLR

• Display menu & push buttons for settings

Physical

Color Black
Size 41.5" x 2.55" x 3.5"
Weight 4.62 lbs (2.1 kgs)

Environmental

Location Indoor
Max. ambient temperature 105°F (40°C)
Min. distance to flammable surface 3.3ft (1m)
Min. distance to illuminated surface 1ft (0.3m)

Electrical

Voltage Auto-Ranging 100-230vAC, 50-60Hz
Rated Power 60W
Fuses 0.5 Mini Size: 5x20mm

Control

Digital Protocol USITT DMX512 (1990)
Channels 3, 5, 8, 14, 24, 26 (26 maximum)
Data I/O 3 Pin XLR (Cannon)
Modes DMX512 or Stand-Alone

Optics

Light Source 384 High Output 5mm RGB LED Elements
Light Output Red 30,000mcd, Green 30,000mcd, Blue 20,000mcd
Beam Angle 30 degrees

Rigging

Orientation Any
Mounting Points Angle adjustable side L-brackets with 1/2” (13mm) mounting

hole

5

Unpacking

Immediately upon receipt, carefully unpack and inspect the fixture to verify that all parts are
present and have been received in good condition. If any parts appear damaged from shipping
or the shipping carton shows signs of mishandling, notify the shipper immediately. Retain
carton and all packing material for inspection. In the event that the merchandise is to be
returned, the original carton and packing must be used. The customer will be billed for a new
carton and packing if merchandise is received without the original carton and packing.

Claims

Physical damage must be reported to the Freight Carrier or Shipping Company upon
receipt of merchandise. Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the Freight
Carrier or Shipping Company. It is the customer’s obligation in the event that
merchandise is received damaged, to notify the Freight Carrier or Shipping Company
immediately. All other claims not related to damage incurred during shipping must be
made to the Dealer or Distributor within 7 days of receiving merchandise.

Returns

Returned merchandise must be in the original packing with a Return Merchandise
Authorization number (RMA) clearly listed on the shipping label. Items sent by Freight
Collect or without a RMA number will be refused. Call your sales person and request a
RMA prior to shipping. Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and
description of the nature of the return. Shipping damage resulting from inadequate
packaging is the customer’s responsibility. Customer will be charged additional shipping
charges to return products received in non original packing and or cartons.

Power

Do not apply power to the fixture until power source is verified.
For protection against electric shock, fixture must be connected to suitable earth ground.

Make sure fixture is disconnected from power mains before any service.

The mains voltage and frequency of this fixture is automatically set. The input voltage can range
from 100vAC to 240vAC 50/60Hz. The listed power rating is its average wattage under normal
conditions. All fixtures must be powered directly from a switched circuit. This fixture cannot be
run on a rheostat or dimmer circuit even if used solely for a 0% to 100% switching. Before
applying power to a fixture, check that the fixture’s input voltage matches the power source
voltage. Consult a qualified electrician if there are any concerns about proper connection to
power.

6

Mounting

Always consult a qualified professional when rigging. Consider access for routine maintenance
when selecting a mounting position. This fixture may be mounted in any position provided there
is adequate room for movement and ventilation. Mount the fixture securely using proper
hardware, clamps and a safety cables. This fixture features a dual rear brackets that allows
adjustment and positioning when mounted. Adjusts to the brackets require an alley key tool.
The bracket may be used to floor stand this unit or mount on wall. Slotted mounting holes are
provided on each bracket in two different sizes. Always keep cords out of the way, thus
preventing any trip hazards. Secure all cables properly. Do not mount where the fixture will be
exposed to constant water or rain, high humidity, extreme temperature changes or restricted
ventilation. Do not obstruct any vents or heat-sinking.

Basic Reference

Male 3-pin XLR Female 3-pin XLR

Mounting Bracket Data Input Data Output

Power Input Digital Display & Power Output
Cable Menu Setting Buttons Pass-Thru Outlet Mounting Bracket

Setup and Operation Modes (LCD Display)

The following refers to the different settings that are available on this fixture via the LCD Control
Panel display located at the back of the fixture. The MODE key puts the fixture in the settings
menu itself. It can also be used as a BACK or ESC key to return back. The UP/DOWN moves
through the menu options and allows the assignment of a value. The ENTER key is used to
enter that option and confirms the selection once the UP/DOWN is used to adjust the value.
Settings are stored and recalled on subsequent power cycles.

Note: R, G, B, refers to Red, Green and Blue respectively.

7

Control Panel Menu Navigation

8

Menu Definitions and Functions

Note: To operate using DMX requires the use of a DMX output controller of your
choice that is compatible with this type of LED unit. DMX and master/slave modes
require data cables to be connected between fixtures. Manual and some stand­alone modes do not require data cables for independent use of the fixture

Auto Run Operation

Auto

Press the MODE button, use UP/DOWN to find the AUTO Mode. Press the ENTER
button, use UP/DOWN to select one of the programs, Aut1, Aut2 or Aut3. Press ENTER
again to set the speed. Select speed using UP/DOWN, and again press enter to select.

In Auto Mode you may select one of the three built-in programs. These run
automatically in a continuous loop. You may also set a speed from 1 to 9.

Static Color Operation

Colo

Press the MODE button, use UP/DOWN to find the CoLo Mode. Press the ENTER
button, use UP/DOWN to select one of the preset colors from CoL1 to Col9, or AtF to
create your own color. If you selected AtF, then you must hit enter again and set the
intensity of the RGB values. RGB color intensity values are between 0 (off) to 255 (100%
maximum). By varying the intensity of the RED, GREEN, and BLUE values, you can mix
your own specific color.

In Color Mode you may select one of the nine preset colors or you can create
your own specific color by setting the RGB values.

Slave Operation

SLav

cables must be used to connect fixtures together. To set this mode, press the MODE
button, use the UP/DOWN to find the SLAV mode. Press ENTER. To make unit a
SLAVE, turn this mode ON. Any devices set in this manner can now be controlled by the
master unit. Press the ENTER button to confirm and to exit the SLAVE Mode.

The master/slave operation enables several LED bars to be synchronized and
controlled by one master device. For slave operation to function, XLR data

Sound Active Operation

SoUn

modes, SoU1, SoU2 or SoU3. The fixture will respond to the sound of audio. Press the
ENTER button again to confirm and to exit the SOUND Mode.

Press MODE button, then use the UP/DOWN keys to reach SOUND mode.
Press ENTER, then use the UP/DOWN keys to select one of the three sound

Software Version

VEr

then use the UP/DOWN keys to get to vEr mode, Press ENTER. The display will show
the version number “XX”. Press MODE to return to main menu.

Use the vEr mode to determine the software version. Press MODE button,

9

DMX Operation

DMX-IN

1 2 3

- Ground

- Signal (-)

- Signal (+)

XLR Connector - Plug:

DMX-OUT

2

3

- Ground

- Signal (-)

- Signal (+)

XLR Connector - Socket:

Addr Chnd

which the fixture will respond to the controller on. Also the channel assignment mode to
be used is set. To address simply press the MODE button, then use the UP/DOWN until
the display shows Addr. Press the ENTER button and the display shows the DMX
address. Use the UP/DOWN to select a start address from 001 to 512. Then press
ENTER. After setting the DMX start address, select a Channel Mode. Press the MODE
button, and use the UP/DOWN keys to find Chnd. Press ENTER button. Using the
UP/DOWN select one of the Channel Modes: 3Ch, 5Ch, 8Ch, 14Ch, 24Ch or 26Ch.
Press ENTER.

A.001

The decimal period in the display denotes proper DMX signal is being
received. If there is no period in the display, DMX is NOT being received.

Note: The following DMX-512 Control section explains how to select a DMX start
address for your fixture. It also covers connecting data cables, proper termination,
specific channel assignments and channel value tables.

The DMX operation mode allows you to control the bar using a
standard DMX controller. In this mode you set the start address at

DMX-512 Control

Fixtures require a "Start Address" from 1 to 512, setting the first DMX channel containing data
for the fixture (see DMX Background). Before addressing fixtures, consult the manual of the
system’s DMX controller to select a desirable addressing scheme. Valid Start Addresses range
from 1 to 512. Fixtures requiring more than one channel for control will read subsequent
channels up to the total number of channels required. One mode of this fixture requires 5
channels of DMX, if set to a Start Address of 3 it would use data from channels: 3 and 4, 5, 6, 7.
Choose a Start Address so the channels used DO NOT overlap with other fixtures. In some
cases, it may be desirable to set two or more same type fixtures to the same Start Address. In
this case, the fixtures will be slaved together and respond to the same data. Because all
fixtures see the same data, fixtures may be set to any address without concern for the order
they are connected by the DMX cables.

DMX Data Connection

This fixture uses 3 pin XLR type connectors and shielded twisted pair cable approved for
EIA-422/EIA485 use. Fixtures are connected in Daisy Chain topography: Connection is
made from the controller to the DMX-IN of the first light, then from the DMX-OUT to the
DMX-IN of the next light and so on. Only one data source can be on a chain and no
branching is allowed. The physical order in which the fixtures are connected is not
important, use the most convenient.

1

10

Data Terminator

5Pin

XLR (Plug)

Pin 1: GND(Sheild)

A Data Terminator can be connected to the DMX-OUT of the
last fixture to reduce the effects of signal noise; it is not required
for all installations. To make a Terminator, connect a 120-ohm
¼ watt resistor across pin 2, Data Negative (S-) and pin 3, Data
positive (S+). Whether it is a 5 pin XLR or 3 pin XLR connector
(shown on right) does not matter, the pin numbers remain the
same. A qualified technician can determine if a Data Terminator
is needed.

Adapter 5-to-3 pin

Systems using 5 pin DMX interfaces can be accommodated by purchasing 3-to-5 pin
adapters or building adapter cables. Numbers designating each pin can be found on
connectors. Converting between the two XLR types is done in a pin-to-pin fashion.
Connect the shields to pin 1, then connect pin 2 to pin 2 and pin 3 to pin 3, regardless of
either connector’s gender or pin count. No connection is made to Pins 4 & 5.

5 Pin XLR (Socket)
Pin 1: GND(Sheild)
Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)
Pin 4: N/C
Pin 5: N/C

3 XLR (Plug)

Pin
Pin 1: GND(Sheild)
Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)

3 XLR (S)

Pin ocket
Pin 1: GND(Sheild)
Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)

Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)
Pin 4: N/C
Pin 5: N/C

DMX Start Address

To place the fixture in DMX mode, press the MODE key, then using the UP/DOWN keys
get to the Address Menu Option. Press ENTER and using the UP/DOWN buttons, set
the start address number for this particular unit in the DMX chain. Once selected, press
ENTER again to save your selection. More than one fixture may have the same start
address, but they will behave the same. Giving a unique start address that does not
overlap with any other units allows you to individually control that fixture’s features fully.
Never allow channels to overlap. You will need to select the number of channels you
wish the fixture to use first. Your choices are 3, 5, 8, 14, 24 or 26 channel modes. This
will determine the spacing of channels you will need to avoid overlapping of channels
when selecting your start addresses.

Example Select Start Addresses for 4 fixtures each requiring 5 channels of DMX (5

channel mode).
For this example, start with the first unit set to the first possible Start Address = 1. This fixture
occupies DMX channels 1 thru 5. The next DMX channel available for a Start Address is found
by adding the previous fixture’s Start Address to its channel requirement: 1+5=6. To maximize
channel usage, we will leave no empty channels between fixtures so the second Start Address is
set to DMX channel 6 and that fixture occupies channels 6 thru 10. The third fixture will be
addressed 6+5=11 and occupy channels 11 thru 15. The last fixture is addressed 11+5=16 and
will occupy channels 16 thru 20. Thus, 4 fixtures using 5 channels each have Start Addresses of
1, 6, 11 and 16 and the next free channel in the system is 16+5=21.

11

DMX Channel Overview

This fixture features 6 different DMX Channel modes. A 3, 5, 8, 14, 24, and 26 channel
mode. Using the 3 channel mode provides the least granular control, and relatively uses
the least number of DMX channels. The different channel assignments and values are
shown below in the following tables.

DMX Channel Layout

The following shows each channel mode layout and how it relates to the physical
sections of this bar.

3 channels: Bar completely operates as 1 complete section only.

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

1,2,3

5 channels: Bar completely operates as 1 complete section with 2

additional control channels.

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

8 channels: Bar is divided into 2 sections of 4 groups with 2 additional

control channels.

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

6,7,8

Ch

6,7,8

Ch

6,7,8

Ch

6,7,8

14 channels: Bar is divided into 4 sections of 2 groups with 2 additional

control channels.

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

3,4,5

24 channels: Bar is divided into 8 individual sections without any macro or

speed control channels.

Ch

1,2,3

Ch

4,5,6

Ch

6,7,8

Ch

7,8,9

Ch

6,7,8

Ch

10,11,12

12

Ch

9,10,11

Ch

13,14,15

Ch

9,10,11

Ch

16,17,18

Ch

12,13,14

Ch

19,20,21

Ch

12,13,14

Ch

22,23,24

26 channels: Bar is divided into 8 individual sections with 2 additional

controls channels.

Ch

3,4,5

Ch

6,7,8

9,10,11

DMX Channel Table

3

channel

mode

1 3 3 3 1 3 Red
2 4 4 4 2 4 Green
3 5 5 5 3 5 Blue

6 6 4 6 Red
7 7 5 7 Green
8 8 6 8 Blue
9 7 9 Red
10 8 10 Green
11 9 11 Blue
12 10 12 Red
13 11 13 Green
14 12 14 Blue

Control Channel

13 15 Red
14 16 Green
15 17 Blue
16 18 Red
17 19 Green
18 20 Blue
19 21 Red
20 22 Green
21 23 Blue
22 24 Red
23 25 Green
24 26 Blue
1 1 1 1 Dimmer, Internal

2 2 2 2 Speed

5

channel

mode

channel

mode

Ch

8

Ch

12,13,14

14

channel

mode

Ch

15,16,17

24

channel

mode

Ch

18,19,20

26

channel

mode

Ch

21,22,23

Functions

Programs and

Functions

(see below)

(see below)

Ch

24,25,26

13

Dimmer, Internal Programs and Function DMX Values

Decimal Percentage Effect Feature
000 – 007 0% – 3% Dimmer
008 – 015 3% – 6% Strobe Effect
016 – 023 6% – 9% Internal Program 1
024 – 031 9% – 12% Internal Program 2
032 – 039 13% – 15% Internal Program 3
040 – 047 16% – 18% Internal Program 4
048 – 055 19% – 22% Internal Program 5
056 – 063 22% – 25% Internal Program 6
064 – 071 25% – 28% Internal Program 7
072 – 079 28% - 31% Internal Program 8
080 – 087 31% - 34% Internal Program 9
088 – 095 35% - 37% Internal Program 10
096 – 103 38% - 40% Internal Program 11
104 – 111 41% - 44% Internal Program 12
112 – 119 44% - 47% Internal Program 13
120 – 127 47% - 50% Internal Program 14
128 – 135 50% - 53% Internal Program 15
136 – 143 53% - 56% Internal Program 16
144 – 151 56% - 59% Internal Program 17
152 – 159 60% - 62% Internal Program 18
160 – 167 63% - 65% Internal Program 19
168 – 175 66% - 69% Internal Program 20
176 – 183 69% - 72% Internal Program 21
184 – 191 72% - 75% Internal Program 22
192 – 199 75% - 78% Internal Program 23
200 – 207 78% - 81% Internal Program 24
208 – 215 82% - 84% Internal Program 25
216 – 223 85% - 87% Internal Program 26
224 – 231 88% - 91% Internal Program 27
232 – 239 91% - 94% Sound 1
240 – 247 94% - 97% Sound 2
248 – 255 97% - 100% Sound 3

Speed DMX Values

Decimal Percentage Effect Feature
000 – 255 0% – 100% Speed from slow to fast

Note: When the Strobe Effect is active, the LEDS are controlled via channels 3-26.

14

Maintenance

Make sure fixture is cool and disconnected from power mains before any service.

Weekly operating hours and environmental conditions will establish how often the fixtures need
cleaning. Fixtures should be cleaned and inspected at least once a month to maintain optimum
performance. Accumulation of dust and fog residue increases heat build up, can lead to
malfunctions, overheating and reduction in maximum light output, reduced fixture life and over
all performance. Before conducting any maintenance, disconnect fixture from power mains.

1) Disconnect fixture from power mains.

2) Use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove dust collected on external vents and internal
components. If using an air compressor, use low pressures and extreme care to prevent
damaging any internal parts or effects.

4) Clean all optical elements when the fixture is cold. Use a soft lint free cotton cloth or tissue
and cleaner safe for plastics.

5) Inspect clamps and safety cables to ensure fixture is secure and safe.

Accessory Items (sold separately)

Order Code Description
CLAMP-MEGA/B Mega Heavy Duty Aluminum Clamp – Black
CLAMP-CBHALF Half Cheeseborough Coupler 300kg Max Load

CLAMP-O O clamp for stands – Plastic - Black

SAFETYCABLE30B Safety Cable Black 30”
SAFETYCABLE18B Safety Cable Black 18”

CA-XLR3/5 Pre-made 5’ 3-pin XLR Cable
CA-XLR3/10 Pre-made 10’ 3-pin XLR Cable
CA-XLR3/25 Pre-made 25’ 3-pin XLR Cable
CA-XLR3/50 Pre-made 50’ 3-pin XLR Cable
CA-XLR3/100 Pre-made 100’ 3-pin XLR Cable

CO-XLR3M XLR Connector 3-pin Male
CO-XLR3F XLR Connector 3-pin Female

CO-XLRTERM3 XLR 3 Pin Data Terminator

CO-XLR3MTO5F XLR 3 Pin Male to 5 Pin Female Adapter
CO-XLR5MTO3F XLR 5 Pin Male to 3 Pin Female Adapter

15

Troubleshooting

Symptom Possible Cause / Solution

Check for power on mains No Power

Check main fuse and fuse holder

Erratic / No response to DMX

Check data cables: connection and proper wiring

Check Display settings

Check Start Address

Incorrectly responds to DMX
(Diagnostic technique for DMX issues: Set
suspect fixture’s Start Address the same as a
correctly functioning fixture. If both units then
function correctly, issue is programming)

Check Start Address

Check for overlapping addresses

Check Menu settings

Check Data cables (faults and proper wiring)

DMX-512 Background

DMX-512 is a digital data transmission standard developed by the United States Institute for Theater Technology
(USITT). It is designed to enable control of lighting equipment. DMX deals solely with the formatting of data for
transmission and does not dictate how the data is created or used.

Under DMX, signals are transmitted in much the same way a computer modem transmits data. The Data, divided
into channels, is "Framed" using a start bit, high (1), eight data bits and finally, two stop bits, both high (1). DMX
uses no parity to check the integrity of the signal. Instead, DMX relies on the ultra low probability of an error
occurring in the same place when the data is resent. The rate at which data is sent is fixed at 250k bps, almost four
and a half times faster that a 56k modem. This speed allows all data on a DMX chain to be updated more than 44
times every second.

The transmitted data follows a specific format. DMX allows for 512 channels each with eight data bits, giving each
channel the possibility of 256 values. When a data "Packet" is sent, all channels are transmitted one after another.
Even if the data on a specific channel has not been changed, it must be sent. In a packet, a "start code" of all zeros
is sent before the data to identify the signal as a Standard DMX transmission. This start code is transparent to the
user and is handled by the controller.

The physical signals are transmitted using a twisted pair of wires and a common shield, a configuration called
Balanced. The controller and all receiving equipment are connected using a “Daisy Chain" connection. The signal
is jumped from the controller to a piece of DMX equipment. From there, the signal is jumped to the next piece of
equipment and so on until the last piece of equipment is connected. No branches are allowed and the signal does
not come back to the controller. The final piece of equipment will have only one cable connection. As a result, all
equipment connected to the chain will see exactly the same signal whether it is first or last. When connecting
equipment, no particular attention needs to be paid to the order in which the equipment is connected. Depending on
the conditions and equipment, a line terminator may be required. If there is any question, in most circumstances the
addition of a terminator will not degrade the signal. To make a terminator, attach a 120-ohm resistor between the
Signal Data Negative and Signal Data Positive pins of a connector in the last piece of equipment in the chain.

The DMX Standard uses 5 pin XLR connectors. However, it is common to see
fixtures with 3 pin XLR connectors as these types of balanced or “Lo-Z” cables
are common in the audio industry. In either case, pin numbers are the same and
carry the same signals.

10900 Palmbay Drive • Orlando, FL 32824 U.S.A.
www.techni-lux.com

Pin Connection

1 Common (Shield)
2 Data Negative (S- or Cold)
3 Data Positive (S+ or Hot)
4 n/c (not used)
5 n/c (not used)

16