TMB DATAPLEX NODE 1x6 User manual

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 2
DATAPLEX Node 1x6 User Manual
Dataplex-Node-1x6-Manual-v1.1
Effective 28 October 2020
© Copyright 2020, TMB
All rights reserved
TMB authorizes its customers to download and
print this electronically published manual for
professional use only. TMB prohibits reproduction,
modification or distribution of this document for
any other purposes, without express
written consent.
Specifications are subject to change without
notice. The information in this document
supersedes all previously supplied information
before the effective date listed above. TMB has
confidence in the accuracy of the document
information herein but assumes no responsibility
or liability for any loss occurring as a direct or
indirect result of errors or exclusions whether by
accident or any other cause.

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 3
LIMITED WARRANTY—4
PRODUCT OVERVIEW—5
MODEL DIFFERENCES—5
MODEL ILLUSTRATION—6
DIMENSIONS—7
NODE 1x6 XLR—7
NODE 1X6 PTB—8
NODE 1x6 IDC—9
SETUP—10
UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
POWER REQUIREMENTS—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS—10
FUSE REPLACEMENT—11
RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK—NODE 1X6XLR—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK—NODE 1X6PTB—13
RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK—NODE 1X6IDC—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
OPERATION—ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
OVERVIEW—15
BROWSER INTERFACE—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
STATUS—16
NODE SETUP—16
PORT ROUTING—Error! Bookmark not defined.
PROTOCOL SETUP—Error! Bookmark not defined.
CONFIGURATIONS—19
FIRMWARE UPGRADE—20
PROPLEX SOFTWARE—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
FRONT PANEL LED INDICATORS—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
REAR PANEL LED INDICATORS—ERROR!BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION—24
RETURN PROCEDURE—25
CONTACT INFORMATION—26

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 4
LIMITED WARRANTY
Dataplex Data Distribution Devices are warranted by TMB against defective materials or workmanship for
a period of two (2) years from the date of original sale by TMB.
TMB’s warranty shall be restricted to the repair or replacement of any part that proves to be defective and
for which a claim is submitted to TMB before the expiration of the applicable warranty periods.
This Limited Warranty is void if the defects of the Product are the result of:
oOpening the casing, repair, or adjustment by anyone other than TMB or persons specifically authorized by TMB
oAccident, physical abuse, mishandling, or misapplication of the product.
oDamage due to lightning, earthquake, flood, terrorism, war, or act of God.
TMB will not assume responsibility for any labor expended, or materials used, to replace and/or repair the
Product without TMB’s prior written authorization. Any repair of the Product in the field, and any associated
labor charges, must be authorized in advance by TMB. Freight costs on warranty repairs are split 50/50:
Customer pays to ship defective product to TMB; TMB pays to ship repaired product, ground freight,
back to Customer.
This warranty does not cover consequential damages or costs of any kind.
A Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) Number must be obtained from TMB prior to return of any
defective merchandise for warranty or non-warranty repair. For all repairs please contact TMB Tech Support
Repair using the contact information below or email [e-mail].
US
527 Park Ave.
San Fernando, CA 91340
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
www.tmb.com
UK
21 Armstrong Way
Southall, UB2 4SD England
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
www.tmb.com

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 5
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Dataplex Node 1x6 is a powerful bidirectional Art-Net/sACN Ethernet-DMX Node capable of
distributing up to 6 discreet universes of DMX. The RackMount units are available with a range of
connector options including IDC (Insulation-Displacement Contact), PTB (Pluggable Terminal Block)
and Neutrik 5-Pin XLR. Dataplex nodes feature RDM functionality and advanced management via web
bowser or our ProPlex Software. Dataplex products are designed as an affordable, high-performance
signal management solutions and ensure the safety of connected equipment. Features Include:
oHigh-power processor for glitch-free data processing of up to six universes
oControl and management via ProPlex Software or web browser interface
oMerge DMX, Art-Net and Streaming ACN from multiple sources
oBi-directional RDM functionality - input or output on any DMX port
oMultiple connector configurations with IDC, PTB, or XLR
oRugged Neutrik™ connectors
oDurable RackMount enclosure
oFront-facing LED indicators for ease of monitoring
oBlack chassis with rear connectors enables a cleaner front-of-rack
MODEL DIFFERENCES
Dataplex Node 1x6 are available in several model configurations. The connector designation is the leading
difference and will determine the connector style and rear chassis design.
oDPNODE66IDC Dataplex Node 6 Universe, 6 x IDC Ports
oDPNODE663PTB Dataplex Node 6 Universe, 6 x 3 Pole PTB Ports
oDPNODE665XLR Dataplex Node 6 Universe, 6 x 5 Pole XLR Ports

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MODEL ILLUSTRATION

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 7
DIMENSIONS
NODE 1X6XLR

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 8
DIMENSIONS
NODE 1X6PTB

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 9
DIMENSIONS
NODE 1X6IDC

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 10
SETUP
UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS
Upon receipt of the unit, carefully unpack the carton and check the contents to ensure that all parts are present
and in good condition. Notify the shipper immediately and retain packing material for inspection if any parts
appear to be damaged from shipping or if the carton itself shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all
packing materials. In the event that a unit must be returned to the factory, it is important that it be returned in the
original factory box and packing.
POWER REQUIREMENTS
Before powering the unit, make sure the line voltage is within the range of accepted voltages. This unit
accommodates 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz. All units must be powered directly from a switched circuit and cannot be
operated with a rheostat (variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used solely
for a 0-100% switch.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
o Keep this User Guide for future reference. If unit is sold to another user, make sure they also receive this
instruction booklet.
o Ensure the unit is connected to proper voltage, and that line voltage is not higher than that stated
on the device.
o Make sure there are no flammable materials close to the unit while operating.
o Always disconnect from the power source before servicing or fuse replacement. Always use the fuse
specified in this manual.
o Maximum ambient temperature (Ta) is 40°C (104°F). Do not operate unit at temperatures above this rating.
o In the event of a serious operating problem, stop using the unit immediately. Repairs must be carried out by
trained, authorized personnel. Contact the nearest authorized technical assistance center. Only OEM spare
parts should be used.
o Do not connect the device to a dimmer pack.
o Make sure power cord is never crimped or damaged.
o Never disconnect power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.
Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the housing or attempt any repairs
yourself. In the unlikely event your unit may require service, please contact your distributor.
Please read these instructions carefully. This user guide contains important
information about the installation, usage, and maintenance of this product.

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Disconnect the power cord before replacing a fuse and always replace with the
appropriate fuse.
FUSE REPLACEMENT
Dataplex Node 1x6 uses a 1.0A 250V barrel fuse, 5x20mm (0.2x0.8 in.).
To replace fuse:
1—With a screwdriver, open the fuse drawer to access the fuse.
2—Remove old fuse and fasten new fuse securely in its place.
3—You may use the secondary pocket to store an additional new fuse for later use.
4—Reinsert fuse drawer with new fuse and push to snap closed.

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RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK
NODE 1X6XLR
1—Connect an Ethernet cable from your Art-Net or sACN network to the Ethernet port on the back of the Node 1x6.
2—Connect DMX cables to the DMX ports A-F and link to fixtures, Opto-Splitters or other equipment as necessary.
Each port can be configured either as DMX output or input via the Web Interface or ProPlex Software.
Note: When enabling RDM through the Node 1x6 ports, ensure all linked devices support RDM. Some DMX receiving
chips are not able to process an RDM signal, causing the device to behave erratically. If a problem occurs contact
your device manufacturer.

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RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK
NODE 1X6PTB
PTB (Pluggable Terminal Block) connectors require bare wire installation into removable, screw-type terminal
connectors with tension sleeves. Depending on the application, cables can be unterminated on both ends, or have
a connector on one end to interface with other equipment (e.g. 5-Pin XLR). Each output connection point follows
the same diagram for common, data positive and data negative conductors.
1—Strip the bare-end wire insulation back 7mm or roughly ¼ inch from cable end.
2—Insert bare wires into connector per the diagram below. Turn each connector set screw with a small flathead
screwdriver until tension spring is fully tightened onto the wire.
3—Connect the terminated PTB cables to the DMX ports A-F and link to fixtures, Opto-Splitters or other
equipment as necessary. Each port can be configured either as DMX output or input via the Web Interface or
ProPlex Software.
4—To receive an incoming Art-Net or sACN stream, connect an Ethernet cable from your network into the
Ethernet port on the back of the Node 1x6.

DATAPLEX DEVICES—Node 1x6 User Manual v1.1—25112020 14
RDM /DMX SERIAL LINK
NODE 1X6IDC
IDC (Insulation-Displacement Contact) connectors are designed to decrease installation time as they do not
require cable insulation stripping. Instead the connection is formed by forcing a sharp blade through the cable,
which pierces through the insulation and into the conductor core. Depending on the application, cables can be
unterminated on both ends, or have a connector on one end to interface with other equipment (e.g. 5-Pin XLR).
Each output connection point follows the same diagram for common, data positive and data negative conductors.
1—Insert a small screwdriver into each of the 3 orange tabs on the IDC connector. Using gentle upwards pressure,
push open the tabs to reveal the cable insertion point.
2—Fully insert unstripped wires into connector per the diagram below and push down the orange tabs. Once fully
depressed, the blade should bite down on the cable and pierce through the insulation.
3—Ports A-F can be linked to fixtures, Opto-Splitters or other equipment as necessary. Each port can be
configured either as DMX output or input via the Web Interface or ProPlex Software.
4—To receive an incoming Art-Net or sACN stream, connect an Ethernet cable from your network into the
Ethernet port on the back of the Node 1x6.

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OPERATION
OVERVIEW
Dataplex Node 1x6 can be configured via the Browser Interface or ProPlex Software. Both methods offer the same
access to user-defined settings, so you may choose which management tool best suits the installation.
The Browser Interface is the simplest form of control, allowing you to connect directly to a Dataplex Node 1x6 and
configure it over multiple navigation menus. Users deploying multiple Dataplex Nodes or ProPlex IQ units may
benefit from ProPlex Software which allows total visibility and management of all connected nodes in one easy-
to-use program. The ProPlex Software can be downloaded for free on our website www.tmb.com.
BROWSER INTERFACE
Connect the node to your ethernet network along with your Mac or PC. Open a preferred browser and type the
current IP address into the internet address bar. Press enter to open the Browser Interface.
When first accessing the Browser Interface, you will see the Navigation Menu On the left side of the screen. These
menu options will help you manage the various settings within the unit. The right side of the screen displays
information from the currently chosen menu and will change depending on the menu selection.

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STATUS
The default page of the Browser Interface is the STATUS page. This shows an overview of all the current settings
including node name, network settings such as IP and MAC addresses, port routing information for each of the 6
DMX ports, protocol settings and current firmware version. The STATUS screen is intended to show all the
pertinent operation information of the node at-a-glance and is un-editable.
NODE SETUP
The main setup page to configure the Node IP information as well as the Node Name. All settings changed in this
page are only applied after selecting the SET button at the bottom right of the screen.
NODE NAME—Change the name of the node to a desired name. The value in this field is directly editable and
can be used to differentiate Nodes by area or placement (e.g., Truss 1, FOH 2 or Server Room East).
IP ADDRESS—Change the IP Address to a desired address. The value in this field is directly editable. Note: IQs
that require a firmware update must be in the same subnet as ProPlex Software.
MASK—Commonly referred to as Subnet Mask. The value in this field is directly editable. Note: When EASY IP is
ON, Mask changes are unavailable.
EASY IP—When EASY IP is set to ON, the Node 1x6 will automatically find Art-Net and sACN traffic by searching
all masks, instead of just the current IP range. EASY IP is enabled with a dropdown menu.
LED BRIGHTNESS—Control the brightness of status LEDs at three levels: Off, Dimmed and Full. LED
BRIGHTNESS settings are enabled with a dropdown menu.

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PORT ROUTING
Configure each of the six output ports independently. All settings changed in this page are only applied after
selecting the SET button at the bottom right of the screen.
PORT DIRECTION—Change the direction of the port between IN (input) and OUT (output). Port indicator LEDs
will change color depending on the direction (explained below). PORT DIRECTION is changed with a
dropdown menu.
PORT UNIVERSE—Change the universe number for the port. The value in this field is directly editable and is
displayed according to the Universe Number format. If the number entered is in a different format than the
selected format, the entered number will be converted to the selected Universe Number format (e.g., Node is in
Alpha-Numeric mode, and “17” typed, the field will show “P”).
PORT RDM—Turn RDM ON or OFF by port, enabled by a checkbox on the screen. Port Indicator LEDs will
change color depending on RDM status.
PORT PRIORITY—Assigns priority to ports set as an input. If two or more ports have the same priority, HTP
merging will occur. Zero “0” is the lowest priority and “200” is the highest.
UNIVERSE VIEW FORMAT—Changes the way ProPlex Software displays universe information. Choose from
the following options in the dropdown menu: DECIMAL, HEX, BASE 16 or ALPHANUMERIC.

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PROTOCOL SETUP
Set up lighting protocol information intended for the Node 1x6. All settings changed in this page are only applied
after selecting the SET button at the bottom right of the screen.
PROTOCOL SELECT—Choose between Art-Net, sACN or Art-Net+sACN. Protocols are changed with a
dropdown menu, which applies to all ports of the node.
EASY PRIORITY—Activating Easy Priority is useful for sharing a rig between multiple consoles. When two or
more of the same Art-Net/ sACN universes from different sources try to send DMX to a Node 1x6 output port, the
source with the higher channel 512 value for that universe will assume control over it. Using simple submasters
with channel 512 recorded to full, one console can take over control of a universe from another without any form
of complex HTP/LTP merging in the system. EASY PRIORITY is enabled with a dropdown menu.
ACTION ON SOURCE LOSS—Determines what will happen if the Node 1x6 loses its source of Art-Net or
sACN. Action is selected with a dropdown menu, and any timing is specified with the entry field.
HOLD OUTPUT: holds the last DMX values the Node 1x6 received
BLACKOUT AFTER: takes all DMX channels to 0% after a set amount of time
DISABLE OUTPUT AFTER: disables the DMX output altogether after a set amount of time
DMX OUT REFRESH RATE—Changes the DMX out refresh rate between 20Hz, 30Hz, 40Hz, and Adaptive.
Adaptive mode (High Speed Video Adaptive Mode), is best used when a media server or lighting console is
sending DMX over Ethernet at a higher rate than typical, for the purposes of having DMX Fixtures (LEDs) behave
like low-resolution video. Note: Some devices may not work with this setting.

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CONFIGURATIONS
USER CONFIGURATION—The Dataplex Node 1x6 has two internal memory locations for user configurations. If
changes are mistakenly applied to any settings, it is easy to revert to a saved configuration by pressing the “Load”
button. To save a configuration, make your desired settings and select the “Record” button. Once the
configuration is saved, you will be able to name the configuration file in the text box and select “Set Name”.
DEFAULTS—Clear all settings in the Node 1x6.
PORT DEFAULTS: Reset all DMX port related settings
PROTOCOL DEFAULTS: Reset all protocol related settings (sACN/Art-Net settings)
RESET ALL SETTINGS: Factory default reset and restart the system
DOWNLOAD CONFIG FILE—Allows you to download the current node configuration to your computer for
backup purposes.
UPLOAD CONFIG FILE—Browse your computer for the previously saved file location. Once uploaded, the
settings will automatically apply to the unit, at which point you will have the option of recording into the internal
user configuration memory.
FIRMWARE UPGRADE

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Occasionally we will publish Firmware updates for Dataplex Node 1x6. Upgrading the Dataplex Node 1x6 firmware
is a simple process of browsing for the firmware file destination and selecting the “Upgrade” button. The firmware
upgrade screen will indication a complete and successful firmware update. You can visit our website to check the
current operating firmware and change log notes for all our products at https://tmb.com/firmware/.