LSC NEXUS Series Owner's manual

Ethernet / DMX Interface
& NexLan Software
Nexus 1
Nexus 5 Rack Mount
Nexus 5 Truss Mount
INSTALLATION and OPERATION
Version V 2.0
May 2015
Document number: NEX-T01U-A2
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
ABN 21 090 801 675
65-67 Discovery Road
Dandenong South, Vic.
Australia
Tel: [phone] Fax:[phone]
email: [e-mail]
web: www.lsclighting.com

DISCLAIMER
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. has a corporate policy of continuous improvement, covering
areas such as product design and documentation. To achieve this goal, we undertake to release
software updates for all products on a regular basis. In light of this policy, some detail contained
in this manual may not match the exact operation of your product. Information contained in this
manual is subject to change without notice.
In any event, LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. cannot be held liable for any direct, indirect,
special, incidental, or consequential damages or loss whatsoever (including, without limitation,
damages for loss of profits, business interruption, or other pecuniary loss) arising out the use or
the inability to use this product for its intended purpose as expressed by the manufacturer and
in conjunction with this operating manual.
Servicing of this product is recommended to be carried out by LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty.
Ltd. or its authorized service agents. No liability will be accepted whatsoever for any loss or
damage caused by service, maintenance or repair by unauthorized personnel.
In addition servicing by unauthorized personnel may void your warranty.
LSC Lighting Systems’ products must only be used for the purpose for which they were
intended.

NEXUS
Contents
Operator Manual V2
Contents
1Functions and Features 1
1.1 Overview _________________________ 1
1.2 NEXUS 1 __________________________ 1
1.2.1 Features___________________________1
1.3 NEXUS 5 __________________________ 1
1.3.1 Features___________________________1
1.4 NexLan Software ___________________ 2
2Getting Connected 3
2.1 Basic Setup________________________ 3
2.2 Nexus 1 __________________________ 3
2.2.1 Ethernet Port _______________________3
2.2.2 Ethernet LED _______________________3
2.2.3 DMX port __________________________4
2.2.4 DMX LED __________________________4
2.2.5 Mode Button _______________________4
2.2.6 Power_____________________________4
2.3 Nexus 5 __________________________ 4
2.3.1 Ethernet Ports ______________________4
2.3.2 Ethernet LEDs ______________________4
2.3.3 DMX ports _________________________4
2.3.4 DMX LEDs _________________________5
2.3.5 Mode Button _______________________5
2.3.6 Mode LED__________________________5
2.3.7 Power_____________________________5
3Configuration 6
3.1 Overview _________________________ 6
3.2 DMX Port Options ___________________ 6
3.2.1 DMX port as an Output _______________6
3.2.2 DMX port as an Input_________________6
3.3 Mode Button _______________________ 7
3.3.1 Select_____________________________7
3.3.2 Defaults ___________________________7
3.3.3 Upgrade ___________________________7
4Typical Applications 8
4.1.1 Typical Nexus 1 applications ___________8
4.1.2 Typical Nexus 5 applications __________10
5NexLan Software 13
5.1 OVERVIEW _______________________ 13
5.2 Software Setup____________________ 13
5.2.1 Windows _________________________13
5.2.2 Apple Mac OS X ____________________13
5.3 Network Settings On You Computer ____ 13
5.4 Software Description _______________ 13
5.5 Main Window _____________________ 14
5.6 Property window. __________________ 14
5.7 Control window. ___________________ 15
5.8 Plan view ________________________ 15
5.9 Universe View_____________________ 16
5.10 Fixture View ______________________ 16
5.11 CONTROL Window _________________ 16
5.11.1 Network Items _____________________16
5.11.2 Fixture Control _____________________16
5.11.3 Universe Control ___________________17
5.11.4 Network Item Control _______________17
5.12 TOOLBAR Window _________________ 17
5.13 PROPERTY WINDOW________________ 17
5.14 LOG ____________________________ 18
5.15 PREFERENCES ____________________ 18
5.16 Universes ________________________ 18
5.17 Fixtures _________________________ 18
5.18 Network Item _____________________ 18
5.19 Groups __________________________ 19
5.20 Layout __________________________ 19
5.21 REMOTE CONTROL _________________ 19
5.21.1 Web Interface _____________________19
5.22 Customising the Software ___________ 19
5.22.1 Lists _____________________________19
5.23 FILTERs _________________________ 19
5.23.1 Simple Filtering ____________________20
5.23.2 Advanced Fitering __________________20
5.23.3 Multiple filters. _____________________20
5.23.4 Autocomplete______________________20
5.24 SHORTCUTS ______________________ 20
5.25 Configuring a Nexus ________________ 21
5.25.1 Generic __________________________22
5.25.2 Plan View _________________________22
5.25.3 Patch Information __________________22
5.25.4 DMX Input Options__________________22
5.25.5 DMX Output Options ________________23
5.25.6 Additional DMX Output Options ________27
5.25.7 Identify Nexus _____________________27
5.26 DMX Universe window ______________ 27
5.26.1 Manually Adding Universes ___________28
5.26.2 Universe Properties _________________28
5.26.3 Universe Control ___________________28
5.27 Fixture Window____________________ 29
5.27.1 Fixture Groups _____________________29
5.28 Fixture Properties __________________ 30
5.28.1 Patching a Fixture. __________________30
5.29 Fixture Control ____________________ 30
6Firmware Upgrade 32
7Fixture Library 33
8Specifications 36
8.1 Nexus 1 _________________________ 36
8.2 Nexus 5 _________________________ 36
9Terminology 37
9.1 DMX 512_________________________ 37
9.2 DMX Universes ____________________ 37
9.3 RDM ____________________________ 37
9.4 ArtNet and sACN __________________ 37
9.4.1 Artnet____________________________37
9.4.2 sACN ____________________________38

NEXUS
LSC Clarity
Operator Manual V2
Operator Manual V1.2
Conventions Used in this Manual
Throughout this manual, certain conventions have been used to make the meaning clearer.
A word in [Bold] text with brackets represents a button.
Emphasis is indicated by underlining.
Copyright Notices
Nexus products are developed by LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
www.lsclighting.com
Copyright © 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
All rights reserved.
Contents of this manual, Copyright © 2015

NEXUS
Functions & Features
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
Page 1
1Functions and Features
1.1 OVERVIEW
DMX is the industry standard for the transmission of digital control signals between lighting
equipment. The DMX512 specification defines that it can convey 512 channels on a single
cable. This is defined as 1 DMX Universe.
Many setups and installations require multiple universes so rather than running multiple
cables (one for each universe), protocols have been developed that allow multiple universes
to be transmitted over a standard Ethernet network. Two such protocols are:
ArtNet.
sACN (developed by ESTA)
LSC Nexus devices are bi-directional Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN)/DMX interfaces that allow
you to connect your lighting controller(s) and lighting fixtures using standard network
infrastructure. The “Nexus 1”and “Nexus 5”interfaces are configured (and monitored) by
the NexLan software.
The Nexus units are connected to an ArtNet or sACN network via their Ethernet connections.
The input and output features of each model are listed below. A computer running the
NexLan software is also connected to the network to configure each Nexus. The computer
can also be used to monitor the network operation and to test lighting fixtures by sending
DMX signals to the network for testing purposes.
1.2 NEXUS 1
Nexus 1 is an Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN) / DMX, bidirectional interface with 1 Ethernet port
and 1 DMX port. It is powered via “PoE”(Power over Ethernet).
1.2.1 Features
One 10/100mBit Ethernet MDIX (auto crossover) port with PoE (Power over Ethernet).
One DMX port fitted with a female 5-pin connector. The port can be configured (via the
NexLan software) as an output or input. Use a male to male 5-pin adaptor for operation
as an input.
Remote programming and monitoring via LSC’s NexLan software.
DMX input options include:
oNormal
oBackup.
DMX output options include:
oNormal.
oMerging of any 2 ArtNet or sACN universes in HTP / LTP or custom.
oPriority merging (back up mode).
oMerging with softpatch.
oDMX control of merging.
Remote takeover of fixture parameters allowing Nexus to be used as standalone DMX
toolbox.
Visualizer input supports programs such as WYSIWYG / ESP / Capture / and many
others.
1.3 NEXUS 5
Nexus 5 is an Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN) / DMX bi-directional interface with 2 Ethernet ports
and 5 DMX ports. It is mains powered.
1.3.1 Features
Two MDIX (auto crossover) Ethernet ports with an internal 10/100 Mbit Ethernet switch.
Five DMX ports each fitted with a female 5-pin connector. Each port can be individually
configured (via the NexLan software) as an output or input. Use a male to male 5-pin
adaptor for operation as an input.

Functions & Features
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
Page 2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
Remote programming and monitoring via LSC’s NexLan software.
DMX input options such as:
oNormal
oBackup.
DMX output options such as:
oNormal.
oMerging of any 2 ArtNet or sACN universes in HTP / LTP or custom.
oPriority merging (back up mode).
oMerging with softpatch.
oDMX control of merging.
oEach output can merge 2 DMX universes. It is also possible to “resend” a merged
output as a new ArtNet or sACN universe on the network and use this universe to
merge with a third universe.
Can be configured as a DMX splitter.
Remote takeover of fixture parameters allowing it to be used as standalone DMX
toolbox.
Visualizer input supports programs such as WYSIWYG / ESP / Capture / and many
others.
Available in either rack mount or truss mount housings.
1.4 NEXLAN SOFTWARE
The NexLan software is used to configure and monitor the Nexus range of products.
The software is only necessary when you configure the Nexus products however you may
also use it to monitor the system and to control and test lighting fixtures without the
presence of a lighting console.
The software is a free download and is available on these platforms:
Windows (XP and Vista).
Apple Mac OS X (10.4 and up as universal binary).
The NexLan software is fully described in its own section of this manual.

NEXUS
Getting Connected
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 3
2Getting Connected
2.1 BASIC SETUP
ArtNet or sACN to DMX
This basic setup uses a Nexus 1 as an ArtNet or sACN to DMX converter. The “Network Device”
will typically be a “Network Switch” that supplies PoE (Power over Ethernet) to power the
Nexus 1. Multiple Nexus 1 units can be used to supply DMX at different locations on the
network.
The computer is only required to configure the Nexus to output the required ArtNet or sACN
universe. It can however be used to monitor the system when it is running and also to directly
control fixtures (that you patch in the NexLan software) even when the lighting controller is
not present.
If the lighting controller is a computer based system such as LSC’s “Clarity”, then the
NexLan software can be run on the same computer that is running Clarity.
A computer is not required if your setup is configured to use the default settings of the Nexus
units. See “Defaults” later in this manual for details on these settings and how to set a Nexus
to its defaults.
2.2 NEXUS 1
2.2.1 Ethernet Port
The Ethernet port uses standard UTP network connections to an internal 10/100 Mbit
Ethernet transceiver. The port has MDIX auto sensing which means that cross over cables
are not required.
This connection must also supply PoE (Power over Ethernet) to the Nexus 1.
Both versions of PoE (data-pairs/spare-pairs) are supported. Devices (such as network
switches) that provide PoE are available from most computer suppliers.
2.2.2 Ethernet LED
Indicates data activity on the Ethernet port.
Lighting
Controller
with ArtNet
output
Network
Device
supplying PoE
to NEXUS
Ethernet
NEXUS 1
Ethernet
DMX Devices
DMX
Computer
running
NexLan
software
DMX Port
Ethernet Port
Ethernet LED
Mode Button
DMX LED

Getting Connected
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
Page 4
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
2.2.3 DMX port
The XLR5 female DMX port is bidirectional (via programmable setup) with an internal
terminator resistor and is RDM (Remote Device Management) ready.
Pin
Description
1
Ground/Screen
2
Data -
3
Data +
4
-
5
-
2.2.4 DMX LED
The DMX LED indicates data direction and activity on the DMX port as indicated below:
LED Condition
DMX Data
Off
No input or output DMX data
Green
The port is configured as an OUTPUT and is sending DMX data.
Orange
The port is configured as an INPUT and is receiving DMX data.
2.2.5 Mode Button
See section 3.3 for details.
2.2.6 Power
Power is supplied via PoE. See the Ethernet Port above.
2.3 NEXUS 5
Rack Mount Nexus 5
Truss Mount Nexus 5
2.3.1 Ethernet Ports
The two Ethernet ports use standard UTP network connections to an internal 10/100 Mbit
Ethernet switch. The ports have MDIX auto sensing which means that cross over cables are
not required.
2.3.2 Ethernet LEDs
Each LED indicates data activity on its Ethernet port.
2.3.3 DMX ports
The five XLR5 female DMX ports are fully isolated bidirectional (via programmable setup)
and each have an internal terminator resistor. They are RDM (Remote Device Management)
ready.
Pin
Description
1
Ground/Screen
5 DMX Ports
2 Ethernet Ports
2 Ethernet Port LEDs
5 DMX Port LEDs
Power LED
MODE Button & LED

NEXUS
Getting Connected
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 5
2
Data -
3
Data +
4
-
5
-
2.3.4 DMX LEDs
The DMX LEDs (1 to 5) indicate data direction and activity on their respective DMX ports (1
to 5) as indicated below:
LED Condition
DMX Data
Off
No input or output DMX data
Green
The port is configured as an OUTPUT and is sending DMX data.
Orange
The port is configured as an INPUT and is receiving DMX data.
2.3.5 Mode Button
See section 3.3 for details.
2.3.6 Mode LED
The Mode LED indicates that the Nexus is performing internal operations.
2.3.7 Power
Power input is 85-264 VAC 47-440 Hz 10VA max. A mains input IEC connector is provided
at the rear of the unit. The input is protected by a T0.5A Slow Blow fuse.

Configuration
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
Page 6
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
3Configuration
3.1 OVERVIEW
The NexLan software allows you to configure the Nexus devices to your requirements. The
software is fully described in the “NexLan Software” section.
3.2 DMX PORT OPTIONS
You can configure each DMX port on a Nexus as Disabled, Output or Input.
3.2.1 DMX port as an Output
When a DMX port is configured as an output, you can select the working mode of that port
and which ArtNet or sACN universe(s) it will output. The modes are:
Disabled - The DMX port is disabled.
Out Zero –The DMX port sends a valid DMX signal with all values at 0 (useful as
test signal).
Single - The DMX port will send the selected (primary) ArtNet or sACN universe. If
the selected universe on the network fails, the DMX port will hold the last DMX signal
(programmable hold time).
Priority - Define a “Primary”, a “Secondary” and optionally a “Tertiary” ArtNet or
sACN universe for the DMX output port. As long as the primary universe is active,
then it will be on the output. If the primary fails, then the output will switch to the
secondary universe. If the primary returns it will switch back. If both the primary
and secondary universes are lost then the output will switch to the tertiary universe.
This setting provides an automatic backup in the event of the Primary and or
Secondary universes fails. If a higher priority universe returns it will switch back to
it.
HTP - The DMX port output is a HTP (Highest Takes Precedence) merge of 3 selected
universes (Primary, Secondary and Tertiary).
Softpatch -
The DMX port output for each channel can be from any input or merged or set to a
fixed value and/or cross patched to another channel.
Resend - Each DMX port can only merge 3 ArtNet or sACN universes. If the “Resend”
option is selected, this merged DMX output is sent back into the network as a new universe.
This new (merged) universe can now be used to merge with another universe on another
DMX port thus creating more merges”.
Rate - The specified data rate for DMX is 44fps (frames per second) however equipment
from some manufacturers will not operate reliably at this rate. If this is the case you can
select a lower output rate for the DMX port which might provide more reliable operation.
Hold - If the DMX signal is lost, the DMX output port will hold the last values. The hold time
for each port can be set.
3.2.2 DMX port as an Input
When a DMX port is set up as an input, you can select the working mode of that port and
which ArtNet or sACN universe to use. The modes are:
Disabled - The DMX input is disabled.

NEXUS
Configuration
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 7
Normal - When the DMX port receives valid DMX data it will send the DMX data into
the network using the ArtNet or sACN universe that you specify.
Backup –Specify an ArtNet or sACN universe on which to input the DMX signal. If
the specified universe is already present on the network, the Nexus will not send its
data onto the network. If the specified universe is not present or fails for several
seconds (and the input has valid DMX signal) the DMX port will send its DMX data
onto the network on the specified universe. If the universe returns or another sender
starts sending the same universe, the input will return to backup monitoring mode.
3.3 MODE BUTTON
There is a single button on all Nexus models. This button has 3 functions:
3.3.1 Select
In setups where there are multiple Nexus units on the network you can use the button on
the Nexus to identify that Nexus in the NexLan software.
A momentary press of the button will cause that Nexus to become the “selected” device in
the NexLan software. This is most easily observed in the “Plan”window by a green box
appearing around the Nexus icon when its button is pressed.
See also the “Identify” function in the NexLan software which will flash the power indicator
of a Nexus to identify it.
3.3.2 Defaults
Press and hold the button on the Nexus for 10 seconds. This will reset the Nexus to the
default settings:
Nexus 1:
DMX Port
Input/Output
Mode
Universe
1
Output
Single
0.0
Nexus 5:
DMX Port
Input/Output
Mode
Universe
1
Output
Single
0.0
2
Output
Single
0.1
3
Output
Single
0.2
4
Output
Single
0.3
5
Output
Single
0.4
3.3.3 Upgrade
Press and hold the button on the Nexus at power on.
oTo switch on the power to a Nexus 1, plug in the Ethernet PoE source.
oTo switch on the power to a Nexus 5, plug in the power lead.
This will force the device into firmware upgrade mode.
See the “Firmware Upgrade” section for more details.

Applications
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
Page 8
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
4Typical Applications
The Nexus products are highly configurable and can be used in a multitude of applications.
Every port can be configured as either an input or an output and DMX universes can be
merged in a variety of ways. When a DMX port is configured as an output you can assign
either one or two ArtNet or sACN universes to it and merge them as you require.
The following examples show some typical applications for Nexus 1 units and Nexus 5 units.
You can also use combinations of Nexus 1 and Nexus 5 units to create you required
configuration.
4.1.1 Typical Nexus 1 applications
Nexus 1 as an ArtNet or sACN to DMX converter. The Nexus 1 outputs DMX from the
ArtNet or sACN universe that you select using the NexLan software. The computer is
only required for configuration of Nexus but can also be used to monitor the network if
required.
ArtNet or sACN distributed via Ethernet to multiple locations where Nexus 1 units
provide DMX to operate lighting equipment.
Lighting
Controller
with ArtNet
output
Network
device
supplying
PoE to Nexus
Ethernet
Nexus 1
Ethernet
DMX Devices
DMX
Computer
running
NexLan
software
Lighting
Controller
with ArtNet
or sACN
output
Network
device
supplying
PoE to Nexus
Ethernet
Nexus 1
in
Dimmer
Room
Ethernet
DMX Dimmer
DMX
DMX Dimmer
Nexus 1
on
Stage
DMX Fixture
Ethernet
DMX
DMX Fixture
NexLan
Computer

NEXUS
Applications
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 9
Back-up switching of Lighting Controllers. Main and backup lighting controllers have
ArtNet or sACN outputs on different universes. Nexus 1 receives both ArtNet or sACN
universes and the DMX output port is configured for Priority Mode which will auto
changeover to secondary on loss of the primary universe.
DMX to ArtNet or sACN converter. Nexus converts the DMX to the ArtNet or sACN
universe that you specify. ArtNet or sACN is distributed throughout the facility using low
cost Ethernet infrastructure. Multiple Nexus 1 units provide DMX to operate lighting
equipment.
Lighting
Controller
ArtNet or sACN
Universe 0.0
Network
device
supplying
PoE to Nexus
Ethernet
Nexus 1
Pri. U 0.0
Sec. U 0.1
Ethernet
DMX Devices
DMX
DMX Devices
Backup
Controller
ArtNet or sACN
Universe 0.1
Ethernet
NexLan
Computer
Lighting
Controller
DMX O/P
Network
device
supplying
PoE to Nexus
DMX
Nexus 1
Ethernet
DMX Devices
Ethernet
Nexus 1
Nexus 1
Nexus 1
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX
NexLan
Computer

Applications
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
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© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
4.1.2 Typical Nexus 5 applications
ArtNet or sACN to DMX converter. 5 DMX outputs each individually configurable to
provide a DMX output of its specified ArtNet or sACN universe.
DMX Splitter. One DMX port is configured as an Input and assigned to an ArtNet or
sACN universe. The remaining 4 DMX ports are configured as outputs of the same ArtNet
or sACN universe. The LAN output also provides an ArtNet or sACN output of the DMX
input.
Lighting
Controller
with LAN
output on
multiple
ArtNet or
sACN
Universes
Ethernet
Nexus 5
DMX Devices on Universe 0.0
DMX
NexLan
Computer
DMX Devices on Universe 0.1
DMX Devices on Universe 1.1
DMX Devices on Universe 1.2
DMX Devices on Universe 0.0
Lighting
Controller
with DMX
Output
Nexus 5
4 DMX Outputs
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Input
To any ArtNet
or sACN
Devices
Ethernet
NexLan
Computer

NEXUS
Applications
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 11
DMX Backup. 2 DMX inputs are configured as inputs and assigned to different ArtNet or
sACN universes. The 3 remaining DMX ports are configured as outputs with the lighting
controller’s universe set as the primary and the backup controller’s universe as the
secondary. They are set to “Priority” mode which will automatically changeover to
secondary on loss of the primary universe.
ArtNet or sACN Backup. Main and backup lighting controllers have ArtNet or sACN
outputs on different universes. DMX output ports are configured for Priority Mode which
will auto changeover to secondary on loss of the primary universe.
Lighting
Controller
with DMX
Output
Nexus 5
3 DMX Outputs
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Primary Input
To any ArtNet
or sACN
Devices
Ethernet
Back-Up
Controller
with DMX
Output
DMX Secondary Input
NexLan
Computer
Ethernet
Nexus 5
Pri. U 0.0
Sec. U 0.1
DMX Devices
DMX
NexLan
Computer
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
DMX Devices
Lighting
Controller
ArtNet or sACN
Universe 0.0
Backup
Controller
ArtNet or sACN
Universe 0.1

Applications
NEXUS
Operator Manual V2
Page 12
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd.
Automatic control switching. This setup allows a conventional lighting controller to
control all fixtures. However, if a specialized “moving light” controller is available it can
be used to operate the moving fixtures. If the conventional controller is removed, the
moving light controller will control all fixtures. The Nexus is programmed to
automatically switch these control options.
The two DMX output ports on the Nexus 5 are configured as follows…
DMX Output Ports
Primary source
Secondary source
DMX 1. Conventional Fixtures
Conventional Controller
Moving Light Controller
DMX 2. Moving Fixtures
Moving Light Controller
Conventional Controller
When a primary source is present it takes control. If it is not present the secondary source
takes control. Therefore the control system automatically operates as follows…
oIf only the Conventional Lighting Controller is present, it controls all fixtures.
oIf only the Moving Light Controller is present it, controls all fixtures.
oIf both controllers are present, the Conventional Lighting Controller controls the
conventional fixtures and the Moving Light Controller controls the Moving
fixtures.
Conventional
DMX Lighting
Controller
Nexus 5
DMX Output 1
Conventional Fixtures
Moving Fixtures
DMX Input
Ethernet
Moving Light
Controller with
ArtNet or sACN
output
NexLan
Computer
DMX Output 2

NEXUS
NexLan Software
Operator Manual V2
© 2015 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Page 13
5NexLan Software
5.1 OVERVIEW
NexLan” software is used to both configure and control the LSC Nexus 1 and LSC Nexus 5
units and to monitor the lighting network. It can also be used to test and control lighting
fixtures. After the initial setup the software is not required for the operation of the lighting
network but can be used to monitor the network. The software is a free download from
www.lsclighting.com.
This manual covers version 2 of the Nexlan software.
5.2 SOFTWARE SETUP
5.2.1 Windows
Download the NexLan software for windows from the website (www.lsclighting.com) and
unzip the file. Run the setup.exe program and follow the instructions.
5.2.2 Apple Mac OS X
Download the NexLan software for Mac from the website (www.lsclighting.com) and unzip
the file. Copy the NexLan folder to the Applications directory.
5.3 NETWORK SETTINGS ON YOU COMPUTER
The IP address of the computer running the NexLan software needs to be set to the ArtNet
range:
IP address 2.0.x.x (where x is a value between 1 and 254)
Subnet mask 255.0.0.0
If multiple computers are connected to the network each computer must have a different IP
address.
5.4 SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION
The screen shots used in this manual are from the Windows version of the software.
The screen has a menu bar and 4 windows:
1. Main window with tabs for “Plan View”, “Fixtures”, “Universes”, “Network Items” plus
you can add your own custom tabs.
2. Toolbar window.
3. Properties window.
4. Control window.
If you select (click on) any items in the Plan, Fixture, Universe or Network Items tabs in the
Main window then you can then use the Property and Control windows to configure or
Main
window
Toolbar
window
Properties
window
Control
window
Tabs
Filter
line
Menu
Bar

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control the selected item. Nexus units will automatically appear when connected to the
network. See section 5.25 for details on how to configure Nexus units.
Windows can be added by the Menu bar “View” option. Windows can be placed anywhere on
the screen.
5.5 MAIN WINDOW
The main window contains several Tabs. A Tab can be either a list or a view.
Lists have columns for each device that show information such as:
ID - The ID is set in the device and is automatically loaded. A separate ID is required
for each device.
Name –Each node can be given a meaningful name by selecting it then using the
Property window as described below.
IP Address –The network address of the device.
Views show a geographical layout of the devices. You can arrange the devices in the view so
that they represent their physical location in your setup.
Plan View Tab. This tab automatically shows a view of icons for all network items (such
as Nexus units) and universes found on the network. Fixtures can also be added to this
view. Click on an icon to select it. When it is selected it properties are shown and can be
edited in the “Properties” window and the device can be controlled by the “Control”
window. See section xxx for more information on Plan View.
Fixture Tab. Shows a list of lighting fixtures that you have manually added to the
software. Fixtures are added by selecting Edit/Add Fixture. When a fixture has been
added you can select it (or multiple fixtures) by clicking on them. This is the same as
clicking on a fixture’s icon in the Plan tab. When a fixture has been added and patched it
can be controlled from the control window. This function is useful for testing fixtures.
Universes Tab. Shows a list of all universes on network. Universes can be added by
selecting Edit/Add Universe. Click on a universe to select it. This is the same as clicking
on its icon in the Plan tab. If you right click on a Universe you can view that universe n a
new tab. See xxx for details.
Network Items Tab. Nodes and switches on the network are automatically shown in a
list. You will see your Nexus devices as well as any device that is outputting ArtNet or
sACN such as your lighting console. Network nodes can also be added manually
(Edit/Add Network Item) allowing them to be configured in advance.
Tabs can be added by clicking the +in the last Tab on the right. A wizard will guide you
through the available options. If you Right Mouse click in the Tab name you can:
•Change the name of the Tab
•Close the active Tab
•Move the Tab to the Left or Right
•Create a copy
•Move the Tab to another Window
•Change the Default Filter (If available)
Tabs also can be dragged to change their position in the window. If the Cmd-key (OSX) or
the Ctrl-key (Windows) is pressed while dragging a tab, a copy of that tab will be created. If
the tab is a list, double clicking the tab will select all items of the tab.
5.6 PROPERTY WINDOW.
The property window is dynamic. The properties of the item selected in the Main Window
(network item, universe or fixture) are displayed here and can be changed to suit your
requirements as described below.

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5.7 CONTROL WINDOW.
The control window is also dynamic and changes depending on the selected item. It provides
controls for the item selected in the Main Window (network item, universe or fixture). Its
functions are explained below.
5.8 PLAN VIEW
The Plan View shows information from the objects in a graphical way. Objects which can be
shown in a view are:
Fixtures
Universes
Network Items
Icons can be positioned in the window by dragging them. This allows you to layout your
devices geographically to represent your physical configuration and setup. When your mouse
cursor is in the Plan View window you can use the mouse wheel to zoom the display or double
click on an object to zoom into that object. When an object is Double click again to zoom out.
The Plan View also features the Filter box for quick access to the objects and a predefined
filter. See section xxx for more information on Filters.
The top left corner of Plan View has buttons for controlling the display.
The display can be Zoomed in and out by pressing the - or + button or by scrolling with the
mouse or by pressing the Zoom button.
If there are objects selected, pressing the Zoom button will pan the canvas and adjust the
zoom in a way that all the selected objects are visible. If there are no items selected,
pressing the Zoom button will pan the canvas and zoom in a way that all objects are visible.
Clicking the Pan button changes the mouse into Pan Mode. By clicking and holding down the
Right Mouse button, the canvas can be moved. To change back to Select Mode, click the
Pan button again. The canvas also can be moved by clicking and holding down the Right
Mouse button or by dragging while holding down the space bar.
The Option button contains several options:
•Grid On Shows/Hides the grid (g)
•Snap To Grid On Enables/Disables snapping to the grid (s)
•Drag Lock On Enables/Disables objects to be dragged (l)
•Show Mouse Position Shows/Hides the mouse position beneath the buttons (m)
•Show Connections Shows/Hides the connections from Nodes to Universes (c)
•Show Details Shows/Hides the details in the objects (d)
•Set Grid Size Changes the grid size
•Arrange Selected Objects Starts the Object Arrange Wizard (a)
•Set Origin Change the position of the (0,0) coordinate
•Rotate Plan View Rotate the Plan View 90 Degrees Clockwise
The character between the () is a shortcut for this function when working in the Plan View.
Zoom
Pan
Option
Draw Objects

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The Draw Objects button contains the following functions:
•Add Draw Object Starts the Draw Object Wizard (o)
•Disable Select Draw Object Disables the possibility to select Draw Objects
•Show Draw Objects Shows/Hides the Draw Objects
5.9 UNIVERSE VIEW
In the “Universe” tab, if you right click on a Universe you can view that universe in a new
“Universe View” tab. The Universe View shows the last received values from all parameters
of the universe and the controlled value. If the parameter is not controlled, a blue bar
indicates the value and the value in the bottom shows the exact value. If the parameter is
controlled by NEXLAN, a red bar indicates the controlled value. The value at the bottom is
the last received value and the value just above that is the controlled value.
A thin red line groups the parameters which belong to a patched fixture. If a parameter has
a thick red outline, there are more than one fixtures patched to this parameter.
By clicking the Mode button you can change the way you want to view this universe:
•Channel View individual channels
•Fixture View channels grouped per fixture
•History View the history of the channels
The View button contains options to view the values as Hexadecimal, Decimal or
Percentage.
The Source button allows you to change the universe you are viewing.
The Show Activity button switches the view to the activity view. Here you can easily see
whether or not there is activity on the universe. You can reset it by pressing the Reset
button and switch back to the normal view by pressing Hide Activity.
5.10 FIXTURE VIEW
Fixture View is comparable to the Output screen of most Lighting Desks. Here all
parameters of all fixtures can be monitored. It contains a filter and predefined filter for
quick access. Values can be viewed as Hexadecimal, Decimal, Percentage or as Ranges
defined in the Fixture Library.
5.11 CONTROL WINDOW
The control window adapts to the selected object(s). The Control window can be hidden by
clicking the close button in the upper right corner and shown by the “View” menu in the
menu bar.
5.11.1 Network Items
When Network Items are selected (in the main window) the Control window automatically
provides “Identify” and “Test Connection” buttons for the selected item.
5.11.2 Fixture Control
If a Fixture is selected, the Control window automatically provides controls for the Fixture.
There are tabs for “Basic”, “Colour”, “Beam”, “Extra” and “Test”.
The “Basic”tab has some generic control buttons:
Release Release all parameters of the selected fixtures
On Set all parameter to their default value (usually Open White 50/50)
Grab All sliders jump to the current received value