Show Tec Pixel Bubble 75 Set User manual

Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Highlite International B.V. –Vestastraat 2 –6468 EX –Kerkrade –the Netherlands
Product code: 44570
USER MANUAL
ENGLISH
V1

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Preface
Thank you for purchasing this Showtec product.
The purpose of this user manual is to provide instructions for the correct and safe use of this product.
Keep the user manual for future reference as it is an integral part of the product. The user manual shall be
stored at an easily accessible location.
This user manual contains information concerning:
●Safety instructions
●Intended and non-intended use of the device
●Installation and operation of the device
●Maintenance procedures
●Troubleshooting
●Transport, storage and disposal of the device
Non-observance of the instructions in this user manual may result in serious injuries and damage of
property.
©2021 Showtec. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be copied, published or otherwise reproduced without the prior written
consent of Highlite International.
Design and product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
For the latest version of this document or other language versions, please visit our website
www.highlite.com or contact us at [e-mail].
Highlite International and its authorized service providers are not liable for any injury, damage, direct or
indirect loss, consequential or economic loss or any other loss arising from the use of, or inability to use or
reliance on the information contained in this document.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Table of contents
1. Introduction..........................................................................................................................................................4
Before Using the Product ..................................................................................................................................4
Intended Use .......................................................................................................................................................4
Product Lifespan.................................................................................................................................................4
LEDs Lifespan .......................................................................................................................................................4
Text Conventions ................................................................................................................................................5
Symbols and Signal Words................................................................................................................................5
Symbols on the Information Label ..................................................................................................................6
2. Safety ....................................................................................................................................................................7
Warnings and Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................................7
Requirements for the User.................................................................................................................................9
3. Description of the Device .................................................................................................................................10
Back View ..........................................................................................................................................................10
Product Specifications ....................................................................................................................................11
Dimensions.........................................................................................................................................................12
4. Installation ..........................................................................................................................................................13
Safety Instructions for Installation ..................................................................................................................13
Personal Protective Equipment .....................................................................................................................13
Installation Site Requirements ........................................................................................................................13
Rigging ...............................................................................................................................................................14
Connecting to Power Supply.........................................................................................................................15
Power Linking of Multiple Devices.................................................................................................................15
Installation of multiple LED strings ..................................................................................................................16
5. Setup ...................................................................................................................................................................17
Warnings and Precautions .............................................................................................................................17
Stand-alone Setup ...........................................................................................................................................17
DMX Connection..............................................................................................................................................17
DMX-512 Protocol .......................................................................................................................................17
DMX Cables .................................................................................................................................................18
Master/Slave Setup ....................................................................................................................................18
DMX Linking..................................................................................................................................................19
DMX Addressing..........................................................................................................................................19
Ethernet Connection .......................................................................................................................................20
Art-Net and Kling-Net Protocols...............................................................................................................20
Network Cables ..........................................................................................................................................20
Art-Net/Kling-Net Setup .............................................................................................................................21
Art-Net Settings ...........................................................................................................................................22
Kling-Net Settings ........................................................................................................................................22
Universe Numbering ...................................................................................................................................23
Connecting to a Network...............................................................................................................................24
KlingNet settings..........................................................................................................................................24
ArtNet settings .............................................................................................................................................24
Software for controlling .............................................................................................................................25
6. Operation ...........................................................................................................................................................26
Safety Instructions for Operation...................................................................................................................26
Control Mode....................................................................................................................................................26
Control Panel ....................................................................................................................................................27
Start-up...............................................................................................................................................................27
Menu Overview ................................................................................................................................................28
Main Menu Options .........................................................................................................................................29
DMX Address ...............................................................................................................................................29
Network Settings .........................................................................................................................................30
Set Manual/DHCP ..............................................................................................................................30

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Set IP Address......................................................................................................................................30
Set Net Mask .......................................................................................................................................30
Control Modes ............................................................................................................................................31
Set String...............................................................................................................................................31
DMX.......................................................................................................................................................32
Art-Net ..................................................................................................................................................32
Kling-Net...............................................................................................................................................33
Master/Slave .......................................................................................................................................33
Auto Mode ..........................................................................................................................................34
Manual Mode .....................................................................................................................................34
Advanced Settings.....................................................................................................................................35
Signal Hold...........................................................................................................................................35
Pixel Reverse........................................................................................................................................35
Screen Timeout ...................................................................................................................................36
Screen Brightness................................................................................................................................36
Software Version.................................................................................................................................36
Invert Display .......................................................................................................................................36
Factory Reset ......................................................................................................................................36
DMX Channels ..................................................................................................................................................37
7 Channels ...................................................................................................................................................37
75 Channels (1 LED string).........................................................................................................................38
150 Channels (2 LED strings) .....................................................................................................................39
7. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................41
8. Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................................42
Preventive Maintenance................................................................................................................................42
Basic Cleaning Instructions .......................................................................................................................42
Corrective Maintenance................................................................................................................................43
Replacing the Fuse.....................................................................................................................................43
9. Deinstallation, Transportation and Storage ....................................................................................................44
Instructions for Deinstallation..........................................................................................................................44
Instructions for Transportation ........................................................................................................................44
Storage...............................................................................................................................................................44
10. Disposal ..............................................................................................................................................................44
11. Approval.............................................................................................................................................................44

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
1. Introduction
Before Using the Product
Important
Read and follow the instructions in this user manual before installing, operating or
servicing this product.
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual.
After unpacking, check the contents of the box. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your
Highlite International dealer.
Your shipment includes:
●Showtec Pixel Bubble 75 Set
●Powercon power cable (1,5 m)
●User manual
Fig. 01
Intended Use
This device is intended for professional use as an indoor LED ball matrix. It is not suitable for households
and for general lighting.
Any other use, not mentioned under intended use, is regarded as non-intended and incorrect use.
Product Lifespan
This device is not designed for permanent operation. Disconnect the device from the electrical power
supply when the device is not in operation. This will reduce the wear and will improve the device’s
lifespan.
LEDs Lifespan
The light output of the LEDs gradually decreases over time (lumen depreciation). High operating
temperatures contribute to this process. You can extend the lifespan of the LEDs by providing adequate
ventilation and operating the LEDs at the lowest possible brightness.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Text Conventions
Throughout the user manual the following text conventions are used:
●Buttons: All buttons are in bold lettering, for example “Press the UP/DOWN buttons”
●References: References to chapters and parts of the device are in bold lettering, for example:
“Refer to 2. Safety”, “turn the adjustment screw (02)”
●0–255: Defines a range of values
●Notes: Note: (in bold lettering) is followed by useful information or tips
Symbols and Signal Words
Safety notes and warnings are indicated throughout the user manual by safety signs.
Always follow the instructions provided in this user manual.
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
Attention
Indicates important information for the correct operation and use of the
product.
Important
Read and observe the instructions in this document.
Electrical hazard
Provides important information about the disposal of this product.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Symbols on the Information Label
This product is provided with an information label. The information label is located on the backside of the
device.
The information label contains the following symbols:
This device shall not be treated as household waste.
This device is designed for indoor use.
Read and observe the instructions in the user manual.
This device falls under IEC protection class I.
Minimum distance from lighted objects.
Minimum distance from other objects.
Caution: Risk of electric shock. Do not open.
Max. 6m Pixel Bubble string per output

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
2. Safety
Important
Read and follow the instructions in this user manual before installing, operating or
servicing this product.
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual.
Warnings and Safety Instructions
DANGER
Danger for children
For adult use only. The device must be installed beyond the reach of children.
●Do not leave various parts of the packaging (plastic bags, polystyrene foam, nails, etc.) within
children’s reach. Packaging material is a potential source of danger for children.
DANGER
Electric shock caused by dangerous voltage inside
There are areas within the device where dangerous touch voltage may be present.
●Do not open the device or remove any covers.
●Do not operate the device if the covers or the housing are open. Before operation, check if the
housing is firmly closed and all screws are tightly fastened.
●Disconnect the device from electrical power supply before service and maintenance, and when the
device is not in use.
DANGER
Electric shock caused by short-circuit
This device falls under IEC protection class I.
●Make sure that the device is electrically connected to ground (earth). Connect the device only to a
socket-outlet with ground (earth) connection.
●Do not cover the ground (earth) connection.
●Do not bypass the thermostatic switch or fuses.
●For replacement use fuses of the same type and rating only.
●Do not let the power cable come into contact with other cables. Handle the power cable and all
connections with the mains with caution.
●Do not modify, bend, mechanically strain, put pressure on, pull or heat up the power cable.
●Make sure that the power cable is not crimped or damaged. Examine the power cable periodically
for any defects.
●Do not immerse the device in water or other liquids. Do not install the device in a location where
flooding may occur.
●Do not use the device during thunderstorms. Disconnect the device from the electrical power supply
immediately.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
WARNING
Risk of epileptic shock
Strobe lighting can trigger seizures in photosensitive epilepsy. Sensitive persons should avoid looking at
strobe lights.
Attention
Power supply
●Before connecting the device to the power supply, make sure that the current, voltage and
frequency match the input voltage, current and frequency specified on the information label on the
device.
●Make sure that the cross-sectional area of the extension cords and power cables is sufficient for the
required power consumption of the device.
Attention
General safety
●Do not connect the device to a dimmer pack.
●Do not switch the device on and off in short intervals. This decreases the device’s life.
●Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
●If the device is dropped or struck, disconnect the device from the electrical power supply
immediately.
●If the device is exposed to extreme temperature variations (e.g. after transportation), do not switch it
on immediately. Let the device reach room temperature before switching it on, otherwise it may be
damaged by the formed condensation.
●If the device fails to work properly, discontinue the use immediately.
Attention
For professional use only
This device shall be used only for the purposes it is designed for.
This device is designed to be used as an indoor LED ball matrix. Any incorrect use may lead to hazardous
situations and result in injuries and material damage.
●This device is not suitable for households and for general lighting.
●This device is not designed for permanent operation.
●This device contains a non-user-replaceable light source.
●This device does not contain user-serviceable parts. Unauthorized modifications to the device will
render the warranty void. Such modifications may result in injuries and material damage.
Attention
Before each use, examine the device visually for any defects.
Make sure that:
●All screws used for installing the device or parts of the device are tightly fastened and are not
corroded.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
●The safety devices are not damaged.
●There are no deformations on housings, fixations and installation points.
●The power cables are not damaged and do not show any material fatigue.
Attention
Do not expose the device to conditions that exceed the rated IP class conditions.
This device is IP20 rated. IP (Ingress Protection) 20 class provides protection against solid objects greater
than 12 mm, such as fingers, and no protection against harmful ingress of water.
Requirements for the User
This product may be used by ordinary persons. Maintenance may be carried by ordinary persons.
Installation and service shall be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons. Contact your Highlite
dealer for more information.
Instructed persons have been instructed and trained by a skilled person, or are supervised by a skilled
person, for specific tasks and work activities associated with the installation, service and maintenance of
this product, so that they can identify risks and take precautions to avoid them.
Skilled persons have training or experience, which enables them to recognize risks and to avoid hazards
associated with the installation, service and maintenance of this product.
Ordinary persons are all persons other than instructed persons and skilled persons. Ordinary persons
include not only users of the product but also any other persons that may have access to the device or
who may be in the vicinity of the device.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
3. Description of the Device
The Showtec Pixel Bubble 75 Set is a matrix of 75x 50 mm (2") white frosted RGB balls with Individual Pixel
Control, suitable for creating a nice indoor visual effect. The set includes a 5-output PSU and 15 daisy-
chainable 1-m (3.28 ft) strings, each equipped with 5 multi-colour LED balls. Additional strings are optional
since each PSU-output can power to up to 6 daisy-chained strings. The Pixel Bubble 75 Set has an
innovative rigging system for easy truss rigging. Also, it has multiple controlling options, like DMX,
Master/Slave, Art-Net, Kling-Net and can be used as a stand-alone fixture with built-in programs.
Back View
Fig. 02
01) Pro power connector 100-240V IN (Blue)
02) Ground/earth connection
03) Fuse T3,5A/250V
04) 5-pin DMX signal connector OUT
05) 3-pin DMX signal connector OUT
06) 2x RJ45 ArtNet connector
07) 3-pin DMX signal connector IN
08) 5-pin DMX signal connector IN
09) LCD display + menu buttons
10) Safety eye
11) 4x Adjustment screw + 2x Mounting bracket
12) 5x 50 mm (2") RGB balls per string
13) Pro power connector 100-240V OUT (Gray)

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Product Specifications
Model:
Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Electrical:
Input voltage:
100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption:
121 W
Fuse
T3,5A/250V
Physical:
Dimensions:
1005 x 71 x 75 mm (LxWxH) excluding brackets
Weight:
3,12 kg excl. balls, 6,3 kg incl. 5 rows of balls
Optics:
Light source:
5x 50 mm (2") RGB balls per string
Multi-colour LED Ball Matrix
Individual Pixel Control
15x 1 m (3.28 ft) daisy chainable strings
PSU with 5 string outputs, each up to 6 m (19.7 ft)
Expandable with up to 15 additional strings
Dimmer:
0–100 %
Strobe:
0–20 Hz
Operation and control:
Control:
Stand-alone (auto, manual)
Master/Slave (auto, manual)
DMX-512, Art-Net: 7, 450 channels
Kling-Net: Pixel mapping
DMX channels:
7, max 450 channels (1string 75 channels, 2 strings 150 channels, 3 strings
225 channels, 4 strings 300, 5 strings 375 channels, 6 strings 450 channels)
Control panel:
LED display
Connections:
Power connections:
Pro power connectors IN/OUT
Data connections:
3-pin + 5-pin DMX connectors IN/OUT
Signal pinouts:
Pin 1 (earth), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)
Pin 1 (ground), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+), pin 4 (N/C), pin 5 (N/C)
Construction:
Housing:
Metal
Color:
Black
IP rating:
IP20
Cooling:
Convection
Thermal:
Maximum ambient temperature ta:
40 °C
Minimum Operating Temperature
0 °C
Maximum housing temperature tc:
65 °C
Minimum distance:
Minimum distance from flammable surfaces:
0,5 m
Minimum distance to lighted object:
0,8 m

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Dimensions
Fig. 03

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
4. Installation
Safety Instructions for Installation
WARNING
Incorrect installation can cause serious injuries and damage of property.
If trussing systems are used, installation must be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons.
Follow all applicable European, national and local safety regulations concerning rigging and trussing.
Personal Protective Equipment
During installation and rigging wear personal protective equipment in compliance with the national and
site-specific regulations.
Installation Site Requirements
The device must be installed only indoors.
●The device can be mounted to a truss or other rigging structure in any orientation.
●The minimum distance to other objects must be bigger than 0,5 m.
●The minimum distance between the light output and the illuminated surface must be bigger than
0,8 m.
●The maximum ambient temperature ta = 40 °C must never be exceeded.
●The relative humidity must not exceed 50 % with an ambient temperature of 40 °C.

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Rigging
The device can be mounted to a truss or other rigging structure in any orientation. Make sure that all
loads are within the pre-determined limits of the supporting structure.
The device is delivered with 2 mounting brackets.
CAUTION
Restrict the access under the work area during rigging and/or derigging.
To mount the device, follow the steps below:
Install the clamps, as shown in Fig. 06. Make sure that you use clamps suitable for attaching the
device to a truss.
Fig. 04
Attach the device to the supporting structure. Make sure that the device cannot move freely.
Secure the device with a secondary suspension, for example a safety cable. Make sure that the
secondary suspension can hold 10 times the weight of the device. If possible, the secondary
suspension should be attached to a supporting structure independent of the primary suspension. Put
the safety cable through the safety eye (10), as shown in Fig. 04

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Connecting to Power Supply
DANGER
Electric shock caused by short-circuit
The device accepts AC mains power at 100–240 V and 50/60 Hz. Do not supply power at any other
voltage or frequency to the device.
This device falls under IEC protection class I. Make sure that the device is always electrically connected
to the ground (earth).
Before connecting the device to the socket-outlet:
Make sure that the power supply matches the input voltage specified on the information label on
the device.
Make sure that the socket-outlet has ground (earth) connection.
Connect the device to the socket-outlet with the power plug. Do not connect the device to a dimmer
circuit, as this may damage the device.
Power Linking of Multiple Devices
This device supports power linking. Power can be relayed to another device via the power OUT
connector. Note that the input and the output connectors have different designs: one type cannot be
connected to the other.
Power linking of multiple devices must be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons.
WARNING
Incorrect power linking may lead to overload of the electrical circuit and result in serious
injuries and damage of property.
To prevent overload of the electrical circuit, when power linking multiple devices:
●Use cables with sufficient current-carrying capacity. The power cable supplied with the device is not
suitable for power linking of multiple devices.
●Make sure that the total current draw of the device and all connected devices does not exceed the
rated capacity of the power cables and the circuit breaker.
●Do not link more devices on one power link than the maximum recommended number.
Maximum recommended number of devices:
●at 100–120 V: 8 devices Pixel Bubble 75
●at 200–240 V: 16 devices Pixel Bubble 75

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
Installation of multiple LED strings
This device supports linking of multiple strings of balls. Signals can be relayed to another device via the
connector. Note that the input and the output connectors have different designs: one type cannot be
connected to the other.
01) It is possible to connect multiple LED strings (44571)to the Pixel Bubble 75.
02) You can connect up to 6 strings per output (30 strings in total).
03) The number of strings is determined by the Length settings in menu 6.6.3.1. Set String on page 31.
04) While connecting final LED strings, make sure that each final LED string on each output should be
equipped with a terminator. Always choose the appropriate LED strings.
You can connect from 1 up to 6 LED strings per output (30 strings in total).
Make sure that each final LED string on each output is equipped with a
terminator.
Fig. 05

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
5. Setup
Warnings and Precautions
Attention
Connect all data cables before supplying power.
Disconnect power supply before connecting or disconnecting data cables.
Stand-alone Setup
When the Pixel Bubble 75 is not connected to a controller or to other devices, it functions as a stand-
alone device. It can be operated in auto mode or manually.
For more information about the control modes, refer to 6.6.3.6. Auto Program on page 34 or 6.6.3.7.
Manual Color Mode on page 34.
DMX Connection
DMX-512 Protocol
You need a DMX serial data link to run light shows of one or more devices using a DMX-512 controller or
to run synchronized shows of two or more devices set in a master/slave operating mode.
The Pixel Bubble 75 has 3-pin and 5-pin DMX signal IN and OUT connectors.
The pin assignment is as follows:
●3-pin: pin 1 (ground), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)
●5-pin: pin 1 (ground), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+), pin 4 (N/C), pin 5 (N/C)
Devices on a serial data link must be daisy-chained in a single line. The number of devices that you can
control on one data link is limited by the combined number of the DMX channels of the connected
devices and the 512 channels available in one DMX universe.
To comply with the TIA-485 standard, no more than 32 devices should be connected on one data link.
In order to connect more than 32 devices on one data link, you must use a DMX optically isolated
splitter/booster, otherwise this may result in deterioration of the DMX signal.
Note:
●Maximum recommended DMX data link distance: 300 m
●Maximum recommended number of devices on a DMX data link: 32 devices

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
DMX Cables
Shielded twisted-pair cables with 3-pin/5-pin XLR connectors must be used for reliable DMX connection.
You can purchase DMX cables directly from your Highlite International dealer or make your own cables.
If you use XLR audio cables for DMX data transmission, this may lead to signal degradation and unreliable
operation of the DMX network.
When you make your own DMX cables, make sure that you connect the pins and wires correctly as
shown in Fig. 06.
Fig. 06
Master/Slave Setup
The Pixel Bubble 75 supports master/slave control mode. To connect multiple devices in master/slave
setup, follow the steps below:
01) Connect the first device’s DMX OUT connector to the second device’s DMX IN connector.
02) Repeat step 1 to connect all devices as shown in Fig. 07.
03) Connect a DMX terminator (120 Ω resistor) to the DMX OUT connector of the last device in the setup.
04) Set the first device on the data link as a master device. See 6.6.3.5 Master/Slave on page 33, 6.6.3.6.
Auto Program on page 34 or 6.6.3.7. Manual Color Mode on page 34 for more information.
05) Set the remaining devices to slave mode. See 6.6.3.5 Master/Slave on page 33, 6.6.3.6. Auto Program
on page 34 or 6.6.3.7. Manual Color Mode on page 34 for more information.
Fig. 07

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Pixel Bubble 75 Set
Product code: 44570
DMX Linking
To connect multiple devices on one DMX data link, follow the steps below:
01) Use a 3-pin/5-pin DMX cable to connect the DMX OUT connector of the lighting controller to the
DMX IN connector of the first device.
02) Connect the first device’s DMX OUT connector to the second device’s DMX IN connector with a
3-pin DMX cable.
03) Repeat step 2 to connect all devices in a daisy-chain as shown in Fig. 08.
04) Connect a DMX terminator (120 Ω resistor) to the DMX OUT connector of the last device on the data
link.
Fig. 08
DMX Addressing
In a setup with multiple devices, make sure that you set the DMX starting address of each device
correctly. The Pixel Bubble 75 has 2 personalities: 7 channels and max. 450 channels (1string 75 channels,
2 strings 150 channels, 3 strings 225 channels, 4 strings 300, 5 strings 375 channels, 6 strings 450 channels)
If you want to connect multiple devices on one data link and use them in 7-channel mode, for example,
follow the steps below:
01) Set the starting address of the 1st device on the data link to 1 (001).
02) Set the starting address of the 2nd device on the data link to 8 (008), as 1 + 7 = 8.
03) Set the starting address of the 3rd device on the data link to 12 (012) as 8 + 7 = 12.
04) Continue assigning the starting addresses of the remaining devices by adding each time 7 to the
previous number.
Make sure that you do not have any overlapping channels in order to control each Pixel Bubble 75
correctly. If two or more devices are addressed similarly, they will work similarly.