ETC DataTrack Technical manual

Part Number: 7066M2100 Rev: D
Released: 2019-07
DataTrack and
DataTrack Backbone System
Planning and Installation Manual

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ETC intends this document, whether printed or electronic, to be provided in its entirety.

Table of Contents i
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About DataTrack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
About DataTrack Backbone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Load Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Chapter 2 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Cutting Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Installation Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Surface Mounting (DataTrack Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Suspension Mounting (DataTrack only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Threaded Rod Mounting (DataTrack Backbone) . . . . . . . . . .15
End of Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Installing End Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Installing Mid Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Installing Current Limiters (DataTrack only) . . . . . . . .23
Installing Current Limiting Feed Connector on a J-Box . . . . .24
Installing Current Limiting Feed Connector Using
Flexible or Rigid Conduit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Wiring End Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Wiring In-line Feeds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Powering On the Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

ii DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Chapter 3 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Loss of Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Data Issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Appendix A Parts and Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Two-circuit Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
DataTrack Mounting Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Current Limiters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
DataTrack Backbone Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Appendix B Reconfiguring DMX Data Lines . . . . . . . . 61

Introduction 1
Introduction
About DataTrack
The DataTrack System from ETC is a professional-grade track system that offers built-in
DMX/RDM wiring and two separate power 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 per foot (30 kilograms per meter) of load capacity 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)
About DataTrack Backbone
DataTrack Backbone provides a robust track solution when larger fixtures are required. With
DataTrack Backbone, an aluminum housing encloses DataTrack system hardware, providing
additional strength and more robust structural attachment. A steel fixture hanger combined
with a pigtail adapter allows you to use larger, theatrical lighting fixtures in addition to
traditional track fixtures with DataTrack.
In addition to the DataTrack features described above, DataTrack Backbone offers:
• Suspended mounting
• Increased maximum suspension point distance to 10 ft (3 m)
• Increased load capacity to 250 lb (127 kg) over 10 ft (3 m); see
Suspended Load Capacity on
page 8 for load capacity details
• White powder-coated, black anodized, and silver anodized finishes

2 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Data
DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone provide 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 track system must be Belden 9729 or
equivalent with shield connected to ground at one end, preferably the signal source.
Load Capacity
DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone distribute one or two 120V circuits (230V for EUTRAC®
systems), up to 16A on a 20A circuit. Each circuit has an independent neutral for individual
control and a common ground.
• Maximum Feed: 2 x 20A branch circuits
• Maximum Load: 2 x 16A (2 x 1920W at 120V)
• Maximum Load for EUTRAC systems: 2 x 16A (2 x 4600W at 230V)
• Supply Wiring: 12 AWG (2.5 mm2) feed wires
The DataTrack Backbone fixture adapter has a load capacity of 300W (120V supply), or 600W
(230V supply) for EUTRAC systems.
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: • Per NEC article 410.151(C), do not install any part of this track system less
than 5 ft (1.5 m) above the floor.
• Never mount the DataTrack system on a wall. Wall-mount installation is not
supported.
• Follow fixture manufacturer guidelines to keep fixtures away from curtains
or similar combustible materials
• Always disconnect electrical power before adding to or changing the
configuration of the track.
• Only install lighting track fixtures and fittings in DataTrack.
• Per NEC article 410.151(A), lighting track fittings shall not be equipped with
general purpose receptacles. Do not attempt to connect power tools,
extension cords, appliances, or similar devices to the track.
CAUTION:
• For indoor use only. Do not use in wet or damp locations.
• Do not install track where concealed or extended through walls or
partitions.
• Unauthorized modification of DataTrack or DataTrack components may
void ETC warranty.
• Material used for ceiling mounting must conform to building regulations.
Note:
Do not slide track adapters when moving fixtures. Fixtures should be fully removed
from the track, relocated, and then properly re-attached.

4 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone 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 DataTrack or DataTrack Backbone track layout:
•Track orientation: Each piece of track 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 track 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 31 for a list of available DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone parts.
Figure 1: Coupler and track connections
Planning the Installation
Consider the following elements as you plan your DataTrack or DataTrack Backbone installation:
•
Electrical Requirements
• Ground Path
• Suspended Load Capacity
• DMX Data Path
Electrical Requirements
• Maximum Feed: 2 x 20A branch circuits
• Maximum Load: 2 x 1920W (1.92kW)
• Supply Wiring: 12 AWG (2.5 mm2) feed wires
CAUTION:
Electrical installation must be performed by a qualified electrician in
accordance with local electrical codes and permitting procedures.
Track for
nesting plate
Data
bus
Ground
path

6 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone 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 or DataTrack Backbone ground path.
The following illustrations show examples of ground paths. These drawings are plan views, showing
the track 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
couplers. However, couplers only fit into track 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).
CAUTION:
These figures show a continuous ground path within the track 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 track would not be
properly grounded (and the couplers would not 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

8 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Suspended Load Capacity
The maximum weight that the track 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.
DataTrack
Figure 5: DataTrack suspended load capacity
DataTrack Backbone
When using track-mounted fixtures on DataTrack Backbone, the load capacity is the same as
DataTrack:
• Maximum load 22 lb (10 kg) with fixtures mounted on 12 in (30.5 cm) centers
• Maximum distance of 10 ft (3 m) between structural mounting points for DataTrack Backbone
Figure 6: DataTrack Backbone suspended load capacity for track fixtures
Distance between
structural mounting points
Distance between
fixtures
Maximum load
per foot
36 in (91.4 cm) 12 in (30.5 cm) 6.6 lb (3 kg)
18 in (45.7 cm) 12 in (30.5 cm) 11 lb (5 kg)
8 in (20.3 cm) 12 in (30.5 cm) 22 lb (10 kg)
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”
10 ft (3 m) max
12 in (30.5 cm) min
22 lb (10 kg) max

Planning 9
When using non-track fixtures mounted with DataTrack Backbone fixture hangers (see Fixture Hanger
on
page 58 ) on DataTrack Backbone, the rated load is dependent on the span. Use the table below to
determine rated load and deflection for a given span. For point loads (where the load is applied at a
single point in the center of a span), multiply the load by two when determining the total load.
Figure 7: DataTrack Backbone suspended load capacity for non-track fixtures
Span Maximum allowable load* Fixture weight Maximum deflection
at center
2 ft (.6 m) 300 lb (136 kg) 100 lb (45 kg)† < 0.05 in (0.1 cm)
3 ft (.9 m) 300 lb (136 kg) 100 lb (45 kg)† < 0.05 in (0.1 cm)
4 ft (1.2 m) 300 lb (136 kg) 100 lb (45 kg)† 0.075 in (0.2 cm)
5 ft (1.5 m) 280 lb (127 kg) 100 lb (45 kg)† 0.125 in (0.3 cm)
6 ft (1.8 m) 260 lb (118 kg) 100 lb (45 kg)† 0.15 in (0.4 cm)
7 ft (2.1 m) 240 lb (109 kg) 75 lb (34 kg) 0.175 in (0.4 cm)
8 ft (2.4 m) 220 lb (100 kg) 50 lb (23 kg) 0.2 in (0.5 cm)
9 ft (2.7 m) 200 lb (91 kg) 40 lb (18 kg) 0.225 in (0.6 cm)
10 ft (3.1 m) 190 lb (86 kg) 35 lb (16 kg) 0.25 in (0.6 cm)
> 10 ft (3.1 m)
Not recommended
Calculations are based on a distance between fixture centers of18 in (46 cm).
* Maximum allowable single-point load is half the maximum allowable load over a given span.
† Weight limited by clamp capacity
Span
Fixture centers
Fixture weight

10 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
DMX Data Path
The following illustrations show examples of DMX data paths. These drawings are plan views, showing
the track 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
Figure 8: Simple DMX system
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 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.
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:

Planning 11
Figure 9: Advanced DMX system
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

12 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Figure 10: 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 61 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 13
Chapter 2
Installation
Cutting Track
DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone come in standard lengths of 4 ft, 8 ft, and 12 ft (121 cm, 243 cm,
and 365 cm). You can cut both to custom length on site. In order to ensure proper performance, use
cut pieces at the end of a run with no feeds or couplers attached to the cut end. In cases where you
must use a cut piece of DataTrack or DataTrack Backbone with a coupler or feed accessory, please note
the following:
• Cut DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone separately.
• Remove the end cap from DataTrack before cutting, and then reinstall the end cap after cutting.
• ETC recommends using a power miter saw with
appropriate metal blade to cut the track.
• Make cuts square and perpendicular to the DataTrack or
DataTrack Backbone.
• Make cuts to DataTrack 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.
• Do not cut on the labeled end of a piece of DataTrack.
• 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, and clean any metal shavings before installing.
WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! Cover the ends of DataTrack and DataTrack
Backbone with end covers or protective caps.
CAUTION:
Before installing or using the DataTrack or DataTrack Backbone system, read
and understand the following information:
• Only use electrical fittings identified for use with the system.
• DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone are 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.
• DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone do not support the use of power supply
cords or convenience receptacle adapters.
• The DataTrack or DataTrack Backbone 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.
Figure 1: Power miter saw
for cutting track

14 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Installation Methods
DataTrack can be:
• suspended by threaded rod, aircraft cable, or drop ceiling T-track
• surface-mounted directly to a ceiling
DataTrack Backbone can be:
• suspended using threaded rod and standard Unistrut®hardware
A variety of mounting accessories are available. See
DataTrack Mounting Accessories on page 42 for
more details.
It is important that the track 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.
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 or when mounting DataTrack Backbone by
threaded rod.
Properly installed surface-mounted track (DataTrack only) 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.
Be sure to follow the installation instructions supplied with each component when installing the track
system.
Surface Mounting (DataTrack Only)
• Determining the appropriate mounting hardware is the responsibility of the installing contractor.
• Pre-punched holes are positioned every 8 in (20.32 cm) in the track for
surface mounting or attaching the track to Unistrut hardware 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.
See
Drilling DataTrack (If Required) on page 15 .
Note:
DataTrack 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 track to the building structure and to ensure that the structure is
sufficient for the load of the track system and attached fixtures.
Figure 2:
Pre-punched
hole

Installation 15
Drilling DataTrack (If Required)
If you need to add holes because you have cut track or you need additional holes at the end of track,
you can pre-drill holes in DataTrack. Remove burrs after drilling, and clean any metal shavings before
installing.
• Maximum drill diameter is 0.25 in (6.3 mm).
• Minimum distance of drill location from end of track is 3 in (76 mm).
• Maximum distance between drill locations is 8.315 in (211 mm).
Suspension Mounting (DataTrack only)
• Standard kits are available for suspension-mounting DataTrack with 1/16 in (1.6 mm) aircraft
cables. See
page 43 .
• When mounting DataTrack with threaded rod, either 5/8 in threaded rod or 3/8 in IPS is
recommended.
• Additional track accessories are required for suspension-mounting DataTrack. See
DataTrack
Mounting Accessories
on page 42 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 track system.
Threaded Rod Mounting (DataTrack Backbone)
DataTrack Backbone provides a standard Unistrut profile on its top surface. Use standard Unistrut
hardware and threaded rod to mount DataTrack Backbone.
End of Track
The end of the DataTrack must be enclosed with a DataTrack end cap.
If you are using DataTrack Backbone, you must still enclose the end with the DataTrack end cap, but
you can also optionally install a DataTrack Backbone end cap for cosmetic purposes. Because the ends
of the DataTrack and DataTrack Backbone should be flush, the DataTrack end cap extends beyond the
end of the DataTrack Backbone. The DataTrack Backbone end cap encloses the DataTrack end cap.
Figure 3: End caps
Note:
All hardware for attaching wire rope or threaded rod to appropriate building
structure is the responsibility of the installing contractor.
DataTrack
end cap is
always required
DataTrack
Backbone end
cap is optional
DataTrack end cap extends
beyond end of DataTrack
Backbone; optional DataTrack
Backbone end cap covers it

16 DataTrack/DataTrack Backbone System Planning and Installation Manual
Installing End Feeds
If you are using DataTrack Backbone, see the installation
instructions provided with the DataTrack Backbone end
feed housing to install the housing on the end feed. See
End Feed Housing on page 48 .
1: Prepare the end feeds (both the power end feed and
the DMX end feed).
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 5: Prepare the end feed
Note:
When installing end feeds, be aware that
DMX and power cannot be wired into the
same end feed. Install separate end feeds
for DMX and power.
a
b
c
Figure 4: Prepare the
top feed
a
b
c
d