ETC EUTRAC Technical manual

Table of Contents i
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About DataTrack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Load Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
General Warnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Help from ETC Technical Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Chapter 1 Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Planning the Track Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Planning the Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Ground Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Suspended Load Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
DMX Data Path . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Chapter 2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Cutting Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Installation Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Surface Mounting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Suspension Mounting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Installing End Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Installing Mid Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Installing Current Limiters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Installing Current Limiting Feed Connector on a J-Box . . . . .22
Installing Current Limiting Feed Connector Using
Flexible or Rigid Conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Wiring End Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Wiring In-line Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Powering On DataTrack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Chapter 3 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Loss of Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Data Issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

ii DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Appendix A Parts and Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Two-circuit DataTrack Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
DataTrack Mounting Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Current Limiters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Appendix B Reconfiguring DMX Data Lines . . . . . . . . 43

Introduction 1
Introduction
About DataTrack
The DataTrack System from ETC is a professional-grade track system that offers built-in
DMX/RDM wiring with two separate circuits that can be independently switched or dimmed.
DataTrack can be used for hybrid systems using both conventional and LED fixtures.
DataTrack easily blends into its surroundings, providing power and data reliably and
discretely. It's the solution for a variety of permanent applications, including art galleries,
museums, retail displays, lobbies, comedy clubs, nightclubs, and venues with low ceilings or
the need to feed power and data to track-mounted luminaires.
The DataTrack System includes an extensive selection of adapters, feeds, end caps, couplers,
hanging accessories, and other accessories to fit most any installation requirements.
DataTrack offers:
• Two-circuit track with separate neutrals
• Up to 32 DMX devices per data run
• Up to 20 RDM devices per data run
• Suspended or surface mounting (recessed mounting also available; contact your local ETC
representative for more information)
• 3-amp, 5-amp, 8-amp, and 12-amp current-limiting breakers located directly at the track
• Up to 22 pounds of weight per foot when properly supported
• Two-year warranty
• White, black powder-coated, and silver anodized finishes
• 4 ft, 8 ft, and 12 ft (1.21 m, 2.43 m, and 3.65 m) sections that can be field-cut to custom lengths
as required
• Easy surface mounting using pre-punched holes positioned every 8 in (20.32 cm) in the track
(self-tapping screws can be used in places where there are no pre-punched holes)
Data
DataTrack provides integrated wiring for DMX-512A (ANSI E.1.11) and bidirectional RDM
(ANSI E1.20-2010) control signals. The electrical specifications of these DMX512A and RDM
standards are based on ANSI/TIA/EIA-485-A-1998.
DMX512A standards require a continuous daisy-chain data-link topology with a terminating
switch or resistor with a value of 100–120 ohms to eliminate ringing and signal reflection. No
"Tees" or "Stars" are permitted.
Wire used for bringing the DMX signal into the DataTrack system must be Belden 9729 or
equivalent with shield connected to ground at one end, preferably the signal source.
Load Capacity
DataTrack distributes one or two 120VAC circuits, up to 20A each. Each circuit has an
independent neutral for individual control and a common ground.
• Maximum Feed: 2 x 20A branch circuits
• Maximum Load: 2 x 2,400W (2.4kW)
• Supply Wiring: 5 x 12 AWG feed wires

2DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Document Conventions
This document uses the following conventions to draw your attention to important
information.
Please email comments about this manual to: [email protected]
Note:
Notes are helpful hints and information that is supplemental to the main text.
CAUTION:
A Caution statement indicates situations where there may be undefined or
unwanted consequences of an action, potential for data loss or an equipment
problem.
WARNING: A Warning statement indicates situations where damage may occur, people
may be harmed, or there are serious or dangerous consequences of an action.
WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! This warning statement indicates situations where
there is a risk of electric shock.

Introduction 3
General Warnings
Read and save these instructions before installing ETC DataTrack, and refer to them when
making additions to or changes in the DataTrack configuration.
WARNING: Mains voltage must be switched off before installation or maintenance of
track or track components.
WARNING: Do not install any part of this track system less than 5 ft (1.5 m) above the
floor.
WARNING: Do not install any fixture assembly closer than 6 in (15.2 cm) from any curtain
or similar combustible material.
WARNING: Always disconnect electrical power before adding to or changing the
configuration of the track.
WARNING: Do not attempt to energize anything other than lighting track fixtures on the
track.
WARNING: Do not attempt to connect power tools, extension cords, appliances, or
similar devices to the track.
CAUTION:
This document describes 120V DataTrack installations and is not intended for
for the planning and installation of 230V installations. 230V installations
require different power configurations than those described here.
CAUTION:
For indoor use only. Do not use in wet or damp locations.
CAUTION:
Unauthorized modification of DataTrack or DataTrack components may void
ETC warranty.
CAUTION:
Material used for ceiling mounting must conform to building regulations.
Note:
Never mount the DataTrack system on a wall. Wall-mount installation is not
supported.
Note:
Do not slide track adapters when moving fixtures. Fixtures should be fully removed
from the track, relocated, and then properly re-attached.

4DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Help from ETC Technical Services
This manual will guide you through the planning, installation, operation, and troubleshooting
of a DataTrack system.
If you are having difficulties, your most convenient resources are the references given in this
user manual. To search more widely, try the ETC website at etcconnect.com. If none of these
resources are sufficient, contact ETC Technical Services directly at one of the offices identified
below. Emergency service is available from all ETC offices outside of normal business hours.
When calling for support, please try to have the following information available:
• Product model
• Other components in your system (luminaires connected, control source, etc.)
Americas United Kingdom
ETC, Inc. ETC Ltd
Technical Services Department Technical Services Department
3031 Pleasant View Road 26-28 Victoria Industrial Estate
Middleton, WI 53562 Victoria Road,
800-775-4382 (USA, toll-free) London W3 6UU England
[phone] [phone]
[email protected] [email protected]
Asia Germany
ETC Asia ETC GmbH
Technical Services Department Technical Services Department
Room 1801, 18/F Ohmstrasse 3
Tower 1, Phase 1 Enterprise Square 83607 Holzkirchen, Germany
9 Sheung Yuet Road [phone]
Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong [email protected]
[phone]
[email protected]

Planning 5
Chapter 1
Planning
Planning the Track Layout
Consider the following elements as you plan your track layout:
•Track orientation: Each piece of DataTrack has a top and a bottom.
•Conduit entry points: Each piece has limited available conduit knockouts.
•Data paths and termination locations: Plan the DMX data paths before installation. DMX data
paths must be contiguous daisy chains with terminations. Stars, loops, or Y’s will result in faulty
performance of DMX fixtures.
•Coupler and Track Connections: Couplers will only fit into DataTrack in one orientation. The
ground/data bus connection of the coupler must mate with the ground/data bus portion of the
track. This is important to keep in mind when purchasing couplers (ground left versus ground
right, ground inside versus ground outside). All product references to ground orientation also
refer to data bus orientation, as illustrated below.
See
Parts and Accessories on page 28 for a list of available DataTrack parts.
Figure 1: Coupler and track connections
Planning the Installation
Consider the following elements as you plan your DataTrack installation:
•
Electrical Requirements
• Ground Path
• Suspended Load Capacity
• DMX Data Path
Electrical Requirements
• Maximum Feed: 2 x 20A branch circuits
• Maximum Load: 2 x 2,400W (2.4kW)
• Supply Wiring: 5 x 12 AWG feed wires
CAUTION:
Electrical installation must be performed by a qualified electrician in
accordance with local electrical codes.
Track for
nesting plate
Data
bus
Ground
path

6DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Ground Path
The ground path must be continuous with no interruptions. A ground path can cross itself any number
of times. Continuity is the sole concern in planning a DataTrack ground path.
The following illustrations show examples of ground paths. These drawings are plan views, showing
the DataTrack system as if you were looking at it from above.
Figure 2: Simple ground path system
Figure 3: Advanced ground path system
Note:
There are a variety of configurations that can be assembled using the available
DataTrack couplers. However, couplers only fit into DataTrack in one orientation. The
data connection of the coupler must mate with the data connection of the track. This
is important to keep in mind when choosing couplers (ground left versus ground
right, ground inside versus ground outside).
Note:
These figures show a continuous ground path within the DataTrack system. If any of
the couplers shown in these examples were replaced with an outside ground model,
the ground path would be broken and the DataTrack would not be properly
grounded (and the couplers would not physically fit within the track).
Ground Path
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
ground coupler
location track
L-coupler
ground inside
Key:
Ground Path
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
T-coupler
ground inside, left
T-coupler
ground inside, left
T-coupler
ground inside, right
T-coupler
ground inside, right

Planning 7
Figure 4: Complex ground path system
Note:
X-couplers must be properly aligned. If the X-couplers are rotated 90°, the ground
connectors will no longer align with the ground connectors of the T-couplers.
Similarly, if the T-couplers have the ground connectors on the left side of the T
instead of the right (as shown), they will not align with the connectors in the
X-couplers.
T-coupler
ground
inside, left
Ground Feed Path
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
X-coupler
T-coupler
ground inside, right
T-coupler
ground
inside, left
T-coupler
ground inside, right
T-coupler
ground inside, right
T-coupler
ground inside, right

8DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Suspended Load Capacity
The maximum weight DataTrack can support per linear foot varies based on the distance between
mounting points. The following examples represent the maximum supported load based on various
distances between mounting points. The distance shown at the top of each illustration is the distance
between mounting points. The bottom of each illustration shows supported loads mounted onto the
track on 12 in (30.48 cm) centers.
Figure 5: Suspended load capacity
DMX Data Path
The following illustrations show examples of DMX data paths. These drawings are plan views, showing
the DataTrack system as if you were looking at it from above.
If you have additional DMX termination questions, please contact your local ETC representative.
For more information on DMX, visit the ETC website:
http://www.etcconnect.com/Support/Articles/DMX-512-Info.aspx
Distance between
mounting points
Maximum load
per foot
36 in (91.44 cm) 6.6 lb (2.99 kg)
18 in (45.72 cm) 11 lb (4.98 kg)
8 in (20.32 cm) 22 lb (9.97 kg)
CAUTION:
Data transmission will become unreliable if DMX is not installed according to
standard protocols.
CAUTION:
ETC recommends laying out the DMX data path for your track configuration BEFORE
ordering all track and couplers to ensure that no loops, stars, or Y’s are created that
would disrupt data transmission.
Note:
The DMX data line is only for low voltage with an approximate value of 50V 2A
maximum.
Note:
If DataTrack L-couplers, X-couplers, or T-couplers are required in your system, you
may need to disconnect one or more data-line connections to avoid data loops.
36”
12”
6.6 lb 6.6 lb 6.6 lb 6.6 lb
12” 12”
18” 18”
11 lb 11 lb 11 lb 11 lb
12”12” 12” 22 lb 22 lb 22 lb 22 lb
12” 12” 12”
8” 8” 8” 8”

Planning 9
Figure 6: Simple DMX system
Figure 7: Advanced DMX system
DMX IN
DMX
TERM
start end of line
termination data coupler
location track
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
Key:
DMX IN
DMX “dead zone” or
second DMX input required
DMX TERM
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
T-coupler, ground
inside, right
T-coupler,
ground inside, left
T-coupler, ground
inside, left
T-coupler, ground
inside, right

10 DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Figure 8: Complex DMX system
Note:
Midfeeds would be required for each DMX feed (D1, D2, D3) in the example above.
Some coupler wiring (in couplers indicated with a star in the example above) may
need to be disconnected for the data line to function as shown. See Reconfiguring
DMX Data Lines on page 43 for more information.
T2
D2
D1
D3
T3
T1
T-coupler, ground
inside, right
T-coupler, ground
inside, right
T-coupler, ground
inside, right
T-coupler, ground
inside, right
T-coupler
ground inside, left
L-coupler
ground inside
L-coupler
ground inside
T-coupler
ground inside, left
X-couplerX-coupler
L-coupler,
ground inside
L-coupler,
ground inside
X-coupler
start end of line
termination data coupler
location track
Key: coupler wiring may
require modification
(see note below)

Installation 11
Chapter 2
Installation
Cutting Track
DataTrack comes in standard lengths of 4 ft, 8 ft, and 12 ft (121 cm, 243 cm, and 365 cm). These
pieces can be cut to custom length on site. In order to ensure proper performance, cut pieces should
be used at the end of a run of track with no feeds or couplers attached to the cut end. In cases where
a cut piece of track must be used with a coupler or feed accessory, please note the following:
• ETC recommends using a power miter saw with appropriate metal blade to cut the track.
• Cuts must be square and perpendicular to the track.
• Cuts should be made from the open side towards the top.
• Be careful to prevent the DMX wire from being dislodged from the track and/or deformed while
cutting the track. Test to confirm that the cut edge will properly fit into feed and splice pieces of
the track before proceeding with installation.
• Cuts should not be made on the labeled end of a piece of track.
• The minimum distance that the bus bar can be cut back from the edge of the track profile is
0.08 in (2 mm). The bus bar does not have to be moved out of the track profile.
• Use a file to remove burrs after cutting.
Figure 1: Power miter saw for cutting track
CAUTION:
Before installing or using the DataTrack system, read and understand the
following information:
• Only use electrical fittings identified for use with the DataTrack system.
• DataTrack is to be installed by qualified personnel only.
• It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure the electrical, mechanical
and thermal compatibility of the track system and the fittings.
• Materials used for ceiling mounting should conform to relevant building
regulations.
• It is essential to cover the ends of the track with end covers or protective caps.
• DataTrack does not support the use of power supply cords or convenience
receptacle adapters.
• The DataTrack system is to be supplied by up to two branch circuits. Track
does not support mounting by electrical cables.
Note:
ETC is not responsible for damage caused by the installer or due to modification of
the system by the installer.

12 DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Installation Methods
DataTrack can be surface-mounted directly to a ceiling or suspended by threaded rod, aircraft cable, or
drop ceiling T-track. A variety of mounting accessories are available. See
DataTrack Mounting
Accessories
on page 37 for more details.
It is important that the DataTrack system is properly installed to relieve stress on connection joints.
Stress on the connection joints due to weight overload and/or unlevel track installation may cause
improper connection of the joints. This will cause poor performance of the system.
Properly installed surface-mounted track will relieve stress on the connection joints. When planning
your installation, consider track stability as well as suspended load capacity when determining the
number of attachment points to the structure.
Suspended track mounting using threaded rod or wire rope causes the most stress on the connection
joints. When using the suspended mounting method, be sure the connection joints are secure. It is
strongly encouraged that installers use more than the minimum required number of suspension points
when mounting DataTrack by a cable or threaded rod.
Be sure to follow the installation instructions supplied with each component when installing the track
system.
Surface Mounting
• Pre-punched holes are positioned every 8 in (20.32 cm) in the track for surface mounting or
attaching the track to Unistrut or other mounting hardware.
• Self-tapping screws can be used in places where there are no pre-punched holes to improve the
stability of track connection points.
• Pre-drilling holes for bolts or other attachment hardware is also permissible.
• Determining the appropriate mounting hardware is the responsibility of the installing contractor.
Figure 2: Pre-punched hole
Note:
Track suspended by threaded rod or wire rope will move when mounting and
adjusting fixtures. If this is undesirable, consider surface mounting instead.
Note:
Mounting points may interfere with fixture track adapters depending on the
hardware used for installation. Consider the desired fixture locations when
determining mounting point locations.
CAUTION:
DataTrack must only be supported by the top of the track. Do not wall-
mount track or attach through the side walls of the track.
It is the responsibility of the installer to provide suitable hardware for
attaching DataTrack to the building structure and to ensure that the structure
is sufficient for the load of the DataTrack system and attached fixtures.

Installation 13
Suspension Mounting
• Standard kits are available for suspension mounting with 1/16 in (1.6 mm) aircraft cables. See
page 38 .
• When mounting with threaded rod, the recommended threaded rod size is 3/8 in (9.52 mm).
• Additional track accessories are required for suspension mounting. See
DataTrack Mounting
Accessories
on page 37 for more details.
• Be sure to consider track stability in suspension mounting applications. Vibrations caused by
HVAC operation and other building systems could impact the function of the DataTrack system.
Note:
All hardware for attaching wire rope or threaded rod to appropriate building
structure is the responsibility of the installing contractor.

14 DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
Installing End Feeds
1: Prepare the end feeds.
For top feed:
a: Remove the cover screw.
b: Remove the cover.
c: Remove the plug.
For end feed:
a: Remove the cover screw.
b: Remove the cover.
c: Remove the plug.
d: Install the wire guide to the end feed connector.
Figure 4: Prepare the end feed
a
b
c
Figure 3: Prepare the
top feed
a
b
c
d

Installation 15
2: Connect the end feed.
a: Slide the end feed onto the track until it is flush with the track edge.
b: Secure the end feed to the track with the provided screw.
c: Rotate the wire retainer down.
d: Connect the feed wires to the terminals as illustrated, and secure the screws.
Figure 5: Connect the end feed
L1
L1
L2
L2
N2
N2
N1
N1
a
b
d
c
Electrical connection for two 20A circuits at 120V AC:
Maximum load: 2,400W
Fuses: 2 x 20A
Supply wire: 5 x 12 AWG recommended
Data line maximum voltage: 20V
Data line maximum current: 250mA
120 V 120 V
L2 20A 2
1
N1
N2
20A
L1
N1
N2
DATA
DATA

16 DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
3: Connect DMX wiring.
a: Install the wire retainer.
b: Connect data line wires to screws as illustrated to track.
c: Install the cover.
d: Install the cover screw.
When using DataTrack with DMX, it may be necessary to use separate feed connectors for power
and data.
Figure 6: Connect DMX wiring
a
Black
+ Red
Data line
b
c
d

Installation 17
Installing Mid Feeds
1: Install the mid feed in any position on a surface-mounted track. Remove burrs.
Figure 7: Install the mid feed
2: Mount the mid feed canopy.
Figure 8: Mount the mid feed canopy
3: Feed the power line wires through the track. Concurrently mount the track by referring to the
instructions provided with the track.
Figure 9: Feed power lines and mount track
Drill hole on top of track
where you want to put the
adapter to pass through wires
0.59 in
(15 mm) 0.31 in
(7.9 mm)
0.55 in
(14 mm)
Slide the canopy so that the bracket cutout covers
around the 0.59 in (15 mm) drilled hole.
d
a
b
c

18 DataTrack System Planning and Installation Manual
4: Before mounting, press in the catch using a screwdriver and remove the cover.
Figure 10: Press in the catch and remove cover
5: Insert the mid feed into the track at the prepared position.
Figure 11: Mounting example
6: Using the enclosed hexagonal head wrench, turn all contact screws in the direction indicated by
the arrow.
Figure 12: Mechanical attachment to track
Catch