Chauvet COLORband RGB User manual

5200 NW 108th Avenue, Sunrise, FL 33351 U.S.A.
[phone] – [phone]
FAX [phone]
www.chauvetlighting.com
User Manual
Snapshot
Use on Dimmer
Outdoor Use
Sound Activated
DMX
Master/Slave
Auto-ranging
Power Supply
Replaceable Fuse
User Serviceable
Duty Cycle

CHAUVET®, 2012, All Rights Reserved
Information and specifications in this User Manual are subject to change without notice. CHAUVET® assumes no
responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this
manual.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN............................................................................................................................................................3
WHAT IS INCLUDED ......................................................................................................................................................................3
UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS...........................................................................................................................................................3
MANUAL CONVENTIONS................................................................................................................................................................3
ICONS........................................................................................................................................................................................3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.................................................................................................................................................................4
2. INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................................................5
FEATURES..................................................................................................................................................................................5
PRODUCT OVERVIEW...................................................................................................................................................................6
3. SETUP ....................................................................................................................................................................................7
ACPOWER ................................................................................................................................................................................7
Power Linking ....................................................................................................................................................................7
FUSE REPLACEMENT ...................................................................................................................................................................8
MOUNTING.................................................................................................................................................................................8
Orientation..........................................................................................................................................................................8
Rigging...............................................................................................................................................................................8
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ..............................................................................................................................................9
CONFIGURING THE STARTING ADDRESS..........................................................................................................................................9
CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS........................................................................................................................................................9
MENU MAP...............................................................................................................................................................................10
DMX OPERATION......................................................................................................................................................................11
MASTER/SLAVE ........................................................................................................................................................................11
STANDALONE OPERATION...........................................................................................................................................................12
Automatic .........................................................................................................................................................................12
Sound-Active....................................................................................................................................................................12
Preset Colors ...................................................................................................................................................................12
Custom Static Color Mixing.............................................................................................................................................12
Fixture Linking..................................................................................................................................................................13
DMX CHANNEL VALUES.............................................................................................................................................................14
5. APPENDIX............................................................................................................................................................................18
DMXPRIMER...........................................................................................................................................................................18
GENERAL MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................................................18
DATA CABLING..........................................................................................................................................................................19
DMX Data Cable..............................................................................................................................................................19
Cable Connectors............................................................................................................................................................19
FIXTURE LINKING.......................................................................................................................................................................19
3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion Chart .....................................................................................................................................20
Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link .................................................................................................................................20
SETTINGTHE STARTING ADDRESS ...............................................................................................................................................21
GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING.....................................................................................................................................................21
CONTACT US............................................................................................................................................................................21
RETURNS PROCEDURE...............................................................................................................................................................22
CLAIMS....................................................................................................................................................................................22
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................................23

1. Before You Begin 3 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
1.BEFORE YOU BEGIN
What is included
Ø1 x COLORband™ RGB
Ø1 x Power Cable
Ø1 x Warranty Card
Ø1 x User Manual
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving a fixture, carefully unpack the carton, check the contents to ensure that
all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the shipper 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.
Manual Conventions
CHAUVET manuals use the following conventions to differentiate certain types of information from
the regular text.
CONVENTION MEANING
[10] A DIP switch to be configured
<Menu> A key to be pressed on the fixture’s control panel
1~512 A range of values
50/60 A set of values of which only one can be chosen
Settings A menu option not to be modified (for example, showing the operating
mode/current status)
MENU > Settings A sequence of menu options to be followed
ON A value to be entered or selected
Icons
This manual uses the following icons to indicate information that requires special attention on the part
of the user.
ICONS MEANING
This paragraph contains critical installation, configuration or operation
information. Failure to comply with this information may render the fixture
partially or completely inoperative, cause damage to the fixture or cause
harm to the user.
This paragraph contains important installation or configuration information.
Failure to comply with this information may prevent the fixture from
functioning correctly.
This paragraph reminds you of useful, although not critical, information.

1. Before You Begin 4 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Safety Instructions
•Please keep this User Manual for future consultation. If you sell the unit to another user, be sure that
they also receive this instruction booklet.
•Always make sure that you are connecting to the proper voltage, and that the line voltage you are
connecting to is not higher than that stated on the decal or rear panel of the fixture.
•This product is intended for indoor use only! To prevent risk of fire or shock, do not expose fixture to
rain or moisture.
•Make sure there are no flammable materials close to the unit while operating.
•The unit must be installed in a location with adequate ventilation, at least 20 in (50 cm) from adjacent
surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are blocked.
•Always disconnect from power source before servicing or replacing fuse and be sure to replace with
same fuse source.
•Secure fixture to fastening device using a safety chain.
•Maximum ambient temperature (Ta) is 104° F (40° C). Do not operate fixture at temperatures higher
than this.
•In the event of a serious operating problem, stop using the unit immediately. Never try to repair the
unit by yourself. Repairs carried out by unskilled people can lead to damage or malfunction. Please
contact the nearest authorized technical assistance center.
•Never connect the device to a dimmer pack.
•Make sure the power cord is never crimped or damaged.
•Never disconnect the power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.
•Never carry the fixture directly from the cord. Always use the hanging/mounting bracket.
•Avoid direct eye exposure to the light source while it is on.
Please read these instructions carefully. It includes important
information about the installation, usage and maintenance of this
product.

2. Introduction 5 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
2.INTRODUCTION
Features
•3, 4, 6, 7, 12 or 24-channel DMX-512 LED linear wash light
•Operating modes:
3-channel: RGB control
4-channel: RGB, dimmer
6-channel: RGB control of 2 sections
7-channel: RGB, macros, run/strobe speed, automatic/sound, dimmer
12-channel: RGB control of 4 sections (each pair)
24-channel: RGB control of 8 sections (each LED)
•Static colors and RGB color mixing with or without DMX controller
•Built-in automated programs via master/slave or DMX with variable speed
•Built-in sound activated programs via master/slave or DMX
•Pulse effect with adjustable speed
Additional Features
•High-power, 1 W (350 mA) LEDs
•Additional power output: max 12 units
•Multiple bracket options allows truss or floor mounting

2. Introduction 6 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Product Overview
Single-yoke
Hanging/Standing
Brackets (2)
Bracket Adjustment
Knobs(2)
Power Link Out
Power
In/Fuseholder
DMX In
DMX Out
Microphone
Adjustment Knob
Control Board
Double-yoke
hanging bracket

3. Setup 7 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
3.SETUP
AC Power This fixture runs on 100~240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. Before powering on the unit, make sure the line voltage
to which you are connecting it is within the range of accepted voltages.
Always connect the fixture to a switched circuit. Never connect the fixture to a rheostat
(variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used only as a 0
to 100% switch.
To determine the power requirements for a particular fixture, see the label affixed to the back plate of
the fixture or refer to the fixture’s specifications chart. A fixture’s listed current rating indicates its
average current draw under normal conditions.
Always connect the fixture to a circuit with a suitable electrical ground.
Power Linking
This fixture contains power linking via the edison outlet located in front of the power input cable.
Please see the diagram below for further explanation.
The maximum quantity of fixtures that may be linked is 12.
Additional power
link out
Fixture #1
Fixture #2
Fixture #3

3. Setup 8 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Do not use a tool on
the bracket
adjustment knob
Double-yoke
bracket
Single-yoke
brackets (2)
The fuse is located
inside this
compartment.
Remove using a flat
head screwdriver.
Fuse Replacement
1. With a flat head screwdriver wedge the fuse holder out of its housing.
2. Remove the damaged fuse from its
holder and replace with exact same type
fuse.
3. Insert the fuse holder back in its place
and reconnect power.
Mounting
Orientation
The COLORband™ RGB may be mounted in any safe position, provided there is adequate room for
ventilation.
Rigging
Be sure that the structure can support the weight of the fixture. Please see the “Technical
Specifications” section of this manual for a detailed weight listing. Mount the fixture securely. This
may be done with a screw, nut and bolt, or a hanging clamp. The hole in each bracket is 13 mm in
size. When rigging consider routine maintenance and control panel access. Please see the following
steps for installation.
•If the power link out is intended to be used with multiple fixture, take into account the length
of each power cable, and mount the fixtures close enough to one another to accommodate
for this.
•When aiming the fixtures, you may use the bracket adjustment knob. Loosen the knob,
adjust to the desired angle, and then tighten the knob by turning clockwise. Do not use
tools for this step, as it may cause damage.
•There are 2 different styles of brackets which are included with this fixture. There is a
single, double-yoke bracket, which is located in the center, rear of the fixture. There are
also 2 single yoke brackets, located on either side of the fixture. These may be used for
floor standing purposes (uplighting) or for mounting with clamps.
•Safety cables must always be used.
•2 clamps, one on either bracket, must be used if using the two single-yoke brackets.
Disconnect the power cord before replacing a fuse and always
replace with the same type fuse.

4. Operating Instructions 9 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
4.OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Configuring the Starting Address
Each fixture requires a starting address from 1~512. A fixture requiring one or more channels for
control begins to read the data on the channel indicated by the starting address. For example, a
fixture that uses seven DMX channels and is addressed to start on DMX channel 100, will read data
from channels: 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 and 106. Choose the starting addresses for each fixture
so that the channels used do not overlap. In addition, you should note the starting address selected
for future reference.
The COLORband™ RGB fixture uses up to 24 DMX channels. If this is your first time using DMX, we
recommend reading the “DMX Primer” section in the “Appendix”.
Control Panel Functions
Access control panel functions using the four buttons located directly underneath the LED display on
the control panel.
The Control Panel shows the current state of the unit. It is used to select the operating mode, as well
as the sub-features. For a detailed layout of the control panel functions, please see the “menu map”
section on the following page.
BUTTON
FUNCTION
<MENU>
Used to scroll through the
current operating mode,
as well as back out of the
current menu option
<DOWN> Used to select decreasing
advancement in the value
<UP> Used to select increasing
advancement in the value
<ENTER> Used to select a value and
store it to memory
MENU UP DOWN ENTER

4. Operating Instructions 10 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Menu Map
MAIN FUNCTION
SUB-FUNCTION
SELECTION
SUB-SELECTION
INSTRUCTION
P--
P1
7 Color Switching
- Select between 2 switching, 2 fading built-in
programs, and a chase program
P2
7 Color fading
P3
3 Color Switching
P4
3 Color Fading
P5
Chase Program
P6 7 Color sound active
Use the Audio Adjustment
Knob located on the back
of the fixture
Select between 1 sound active program
3-CH
D 1
~
d512
- - Select 3-channel DMX mode: RGB control
4-CH
D 1~d512
- - Select 4-channel DMX mode: RGB, dimmer
6-CH
D 1
~
d512
- -
Select 6-channel DMX mode: RGB control
of 2 sections
7-CH
D 1
~
d512
- -
Select 7-channel DMX mode: RGB, macros,
run speed, strobe, automatic/sound, dimmer
12-CH
D 1
~
d512
- -
Select 12-channel DMX mode: RGB control
of 4 sections
24-CH
D 1
~
d512
- -
Select 24-channel DMX mode: individual
control of each LED
C--
C1
Red
- Select between 7 static colors. The display
will read C1~C7. The colors that each of
these represent are indicated to the left.
C2
Green
C3
Blue
C4
Cyan
C5
Magenta
C6
Yellow
C7
White
S--
S001
~
S100
(default range is
S050
) -
This is the speed range for the 4 switching
and fading built-in programs
SLA
-
-
This is the mode to be used with
master/slave operation
U--
r---
Red 000~100 Combine red, green, and blue to create a
custom, static, color
g---
Green
B---
Blue

4. Operating Instructions 11 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
DMX Operation
This is the operating mode which will allow for control with an external DMX controller. You must set the starting
address for this mode. If this is your first time using DMX, then it is recommended that you refer to the “DMX
Primer” section in the “Appendix” of this manual.
1. Press <MENU> until one of the DMX modes appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP>and <DOWN>, select the desired DMX address (d 1~d512).
The LED located directly after “d” will flash rapidly when the fixture is detecting DMX signal.
Master/Slave
This is the operating mode which will allow 1 fixture to act as the “master” and control all of the other “slave”
fixtures. You must set both the master and the slave(s) fixtures to the correct mode for this operation.
Master Settings:
1. Connect the fixtures with DMX cables, as shown in the “Fixture Linking” section.
2. Use any one of the standalone modes for the master unit. This includes: P--, C--, and U--
Slave Settings:
1. Press <MENU> until SLA appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, set the DMX address to d 1.
It is not necessary to set the master fixture as thefirst fixture in the daisy chain. It may be anyfixture
in the daisy chain. For example: fixture 2, 5, 10 or 12, etc.
Only 1 fixture may be set to master.
Do not connect a DMX controller to the daisy chain for this operating mode.

4. Operating Instructions 12 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Standalone Operation
Automatic
This fixture has preprogrammed chases. These are accessed via the control panel, and the speed may be
adjusted for the chases. Please see the instructions below for further explanation.
1. Press <MENU> until P-- appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, select the desired program (P1~P4).
4. Press <ENTER> to confirm settings.
Sound-Active
This fixture has preprogrammed sound triggered chases. These are accessed via the control panel, and
the speed may be adjusted using the audio adjustment knob. Please see the instructions below for further
explanation.
1. Press <MENU> until P-- appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, select the desired program (P5~P6).
4. Press <ENTER> to confirm settings.
Preset Colors
This fixture has preprogrammed static color presets. These are accessed via the control panel. Please see
the instructions below for further explanation.
1. Press <MENU> until C-- appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, select the desired color preset (C1~C7).
4. Press <ENTER> to confirm settings.
Custom Static Color Mixing
This fixture has the ability to accept custom static color settings. These are accessed via the control panel.
Please see the instructions below for further explanation.
1. Press <MENU> until U-- appears on the LED screen.
2. Press <ENTER>.
3. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, select the desired color value (000~100). By selecting 000, the
color will remain off.
4. Press <ENTER> to continue to the next color (r, G, b).
5. Using <UP> and <DOWN>, select the desired color value (000~100). By selecting 000, the
color will remain off.
6. Continue until the desired mix is obtained. The order of colors is red, green, and then blue.
7. Press <ENTER> to save the final color setting. This will move the selection to the following color.
However, this is necessary to save the modification.
The colors are represented by the following in the menu map:
r--- = Red (000~100)
G--- = Green (000~100)
b--- = Blue (000~100)

4. Operating Instructions 13 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Fixture Linking
In order to use this fixture in a DMX or master/slave operation, you must daisy chain using DMX cables to link
from one fixture to another. In a master/slave operation, the DMX controller is not connected.
Additional signal
link out
DMX controller
(only in DMX operation)
Fixture #1
Fixture #2
Fixture #3

4. Operating Instructions 14 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
DMX Channel Values
7-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
2
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4 000 ó015
016 ó255
Color Macros
No Function
Color Macros
5
000 ó255
Speed (CH.6 @ values 032~223)
Slow~Fast
000 ó015
016 ó255
Strobe (Red, Green, Blue, & Color Macro channels only)
No Function
Slow~Fast (6 Hz ~ 18 Hz)
6
000 ó031
032 ó063
064 ó095
096 ó114
115 ó127
128 ó159
160 ó191
192 ó223
224 ó255
Mode
RGB mode
Pulse effect 0%~100% (using RGB faders)
Pulse effect 100%~0% (using RGB faders)
Pulse effect 100%~0%~100% (using RGB faders)
Chase program
Auto fade transition
Auto snap transition (3 colors)
Auto snap transition (7 colors)
Sound triggering mode
When CH.6 is set
between 032~223, CH.5
controls the speed.
7
000 ó255
Dimmer
Intensity (RGB/Macro modes): 0%~100%
3-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
2
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%

5. Appendix 15 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
4-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
2
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4
000
ó
255
Dimmer
Intensity: 0%~100%
6-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
SECTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
12
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
25
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
6
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
1
2
Power Input

5. Appendix 16 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
12-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
SECTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
12
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4
000
ó
255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
25
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
6
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
7
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
38
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
9
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
10
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
411
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
12
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
1
3
2
4
Power Input

5. Appendix 17 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
24-CH Mode
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
SECTION
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
SECTION
1
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
1
13
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
52
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
14
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
15
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
2
16
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
65
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
17
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
6
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
18
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
7
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
3
19
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
78
000
ó
255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
20
000
ó
255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
9
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
21
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
10
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
4
22
000 ó255
Red
Dimmer: 0%~100%
811
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
23
000 ó255
Green
Dimmer: 0%~100%
12
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
24
000 ó255
Blue
Dimmer: 0%~100%
Power Input
1
5
7
3
2
4
8
6

5. Appendix 18 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
5.APPENDIX
DMX Primer
There are 512 channels in a DMX connection. Channels may be assigned in any manner. A fixture
capable of receiving DMX will require one or a number of sequential channels. The user must assign
a starting address on the fixture that indicates the first channel reserved in the controller. There are
many different types of DMX controllable fixtures and they all may vary in the total number of
channels required. Choosing a start address should be planned in advance. Channels should never
overlap. If they do, this will result in erratic operation of the fixtures whose starting address is set
incorrectly. You can however, control multiple fixtures of the same type using the same starting
address as long as the intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the
fixtures will be slaved together and all respond exactly the same.
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a serial Daisy Chain. A Daisy Chain connection is
where the DATA OUT of onefixtureconnects to the DATA IN of the next fixture. The order in which
the fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how a controller communicates to
each fixture. Use an order that provides for the easiest and most direct cabling. Connect fixtures
using shielded two conductor twisted pair cable with three pin XLR male to female connectors. The
shield connection is pin 1, while pin 2 is Data Negative (S-) and pin 3 is Data positive (S+).
General Maintenance
To maintain optimum performance and minimize wear, fixtures should be cleaned frequently. Usage
and environment are contributing factors in determining frequency. As a general rule, fixtures should
be cleaned at least twice a month. Dust build up reduces light output performance and can cause
overheating. This can lead to reduced lamp life and increased mechanical wear. Be sure to power off
fixture before conducting maintenance.
•Unplug fixture from power.
•Use a vacuum or air compressor and a soft brush to remove dust collected on external
vents.
•Clean all glass when the fixture is cold with a mild solution of glass cleaner or Isopropyl
Alcohol and a soft lint free cotton cloth or lens tissue.
•Apply solution to the cloth or tissue and drag dirt and grime to the outside of the lens.
•Gently polish optical surfaces until they are free of haze and lint.
The cleaning of external optical lenses and/or mirrors must be carried out periodically to optimize light
output. Cleaning frequency depends on the environment in which the fixture operates. Damp, smoky
or particularly dirty surroundings can cause greater accumulation of dirt on the unit’s optics. Clean
with soft cloth using normal glass cleaning fluid. Clean the external optics at least every 20 days.
Clean the fixture at least every 30/60 days.
Always dry the parts carefully after cleaning them.
Never spin a fan using compressed air.

5. Appendix 19 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
Data Cabling
To link fixtures together you must obtain data cables. You can purchase CHAUVET® 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.
DMX Data Cable
Use a Belden© 9841 or equivalent cable which meets the specifications for EIA RS-485 applications.
Standard microphone cables cannot transmit DMX data reliably over long distances. The cable must
have the following characteristics:
Type: shielded, 2-conductor twisted pair
Maximum capacitance between conductors: 30 pF/ft
Maximum capacitance between conductor and shield: 55 pF/ft
Maximum resistance: 20 ohms/1000 ft
Nominal impedance: 100 ~ 140 ohms
Cable Connectors
Cabling must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end.
Do not allow contact between the common and the fixture’s chassis ground. Grounding the
common can cause a ground loop, and your fixture may perform erratically. Test cables with
an ohm meter to verify correct polarity and to make sure the pins are not grounded or shorted
to the shield or each other.
Fixture Linking
You will need a serial data link to run light shows of one or more fixtures using a DMX 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.
Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line. To comply with the EIA-
485 standard, no more than 32 fixtures should be connected on one data link. Connecting
more than 32 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 serial data link distance: 500 m (1640 ft)
Maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data link: 32
COMMON
DMX +
DMX -
INPUT
OUTPUT
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
120 ohm ¼ W
resistor between
pin 2 (DMX -) and
pin 3 (DMX +) on
the output of the
last fixture
To avoid signal transmission problems
and interference, it is always advisable to
connect a DMX signal terminator.
DMX connector configuration

5. Appendix 20 2/6/2012 2:58 PM
This drawing
provides a general
illustration of the
DMX input/output
panel of a lighting
fixture.
Universal DMX Controller
Continue the link
3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion Chart
If you use a controller with a 5-pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5-
pin to 3-pin adapter. The chart below details a proper cable conversion:
3-PIN TO 5-PIN CONVERSION CHART
Conductor
3-Pin Female (Output)
5-Pin Male (Input)
Ground/Shield
Pin 1
Pin 1
Data ( - ) signal
Pin 2
Pin 2
Data ( + ) signal
Pin 3
Pin 3
Not used
Pin 4
Not used
Pin 5
Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link
1. Connect the (male) 3-pin connector side of
the DMX cable to the output (female) 3-pin
connector of the controller.
2. Connect the end of the cable coming from
the controller which will have a (female)
3-pin connector to the input connector of the
next fixture consisting of a (male) 3-pin
connector.
3. Then, proceed to connect from the output as
stated above to the input of the following
fixture and so