In the new era, the stage lighting projects of landscape illuminators are mostly based on the color change. In order to achieve the effect of changing light and color, conventionally, a DMX512 control system is used for adjustment. The era is changing, more and more designers choose DMX512 dimming system, but there are still a few people who do n’t know about DMX512 dimming system. What issues should be paid attention to when purchasing DMX512 dimming lamps? Where should I pay attention to during installation and commissioning? Today I will bring you a comprehensive understanding of DMX512 dimming.
What is DMX512 control?
DMX512 in English is Digital Multiplex With 512 pieces of information (that is, multiple digital transmissions).
The DMX512 protocol was first developed by the USITT (American Theatre Technology Association) to use a standard digital interface to control the dimmer from the console. In contrast to DALI, which is used to express static effects, DMX512 is mainly used to express the dynamic effects of the illuminated object, that is, the light controlled by DMX is always changing, mainly based on color changes, which is suitable for rendering the atmosphere. Landscape lights and stage lights.
DMX512 control points with each loop
Each output circuit supports up to 512 channels
The controller we generally use is a single port with 512 points. Depending on the number of controller ports, the number of controllers must be calculated according to the actual installation.
DMX512 precautions:
In practice, sharing several experiences can reduce some control problems:
① The transmission distance of Category 5 network cables does not exceed 100 meters;
② If the distance between the controllers exceeds 100 meters, use optical fiber;
③ The EIA485 protocol stipulates that the number of nodes carried by each repeater does not exceed 32;
④ The wiring of each control loop follows the layout of the bus structure;
⑤ The signal and power lines should be laid separately.
Common problems and solutions in engineering commissioning:
I. What should I do if the whole control circuit lights flicker uncontrollably?
1. Confirm that the controller signal output is normal
When the entire control loop of the lamp is not controlled, if possible, first test whether the loop is controlled by a temporary controller;
a. Controlled-there is a problem with the original controller signal output (or a wiring file problem, or a port hardware problem, or a port wiring problem);
b. Uncontrolled-continue investigation;
c. Turn off the lights after the first lamp, and test the first lamp separately to determine whether it is a controller problem or the signal interference effect caused by the subsequent lamps;
Often the first light is OK at this time.
2. Troubleshoot nodes or fixtures
When the controller's signal output is normal, slowly increase the fixtures to find the nodes or fixtures that cause abnormal loop signals; usually the "dichotomy" method is used faster.
Second, the individual lamps of a certain control circuit flicker uncontrollably
1. Check if the controller wiring is in place
The number of lamps in the controller's wiring file must be the same as the number of lamps installed on site.
2. Test with full wiring file
First use the test program to perform the control test, that is, the single-port wiring file is full from 1-512 channels.
a. Random flashing lamps are controlled. At this time, rewrite the circuit lamps, and the problem can be solved;
b. Individual luminaires are still uncontrolled. Check whether the signal output terminal of the uncontrolled luminaire is correct or the luminaire itself has quality problems.
3. Under what circumstances do I need to add a signal amplifier?
One function of the signal amplifier is to amplify the signal and restore the weakened signal to the strength of the starting point; the other function is to isolate the signal to prevent damage to the controller caused by the failure of the lamp.
Under standard conditions, according to the EIA485 protocol, a signal amplifier needs to be added for every 32 nodes. In order to avoid the signal of the lamp becoming weak in rainy weather or other situations, the phenomenon of the lamp flashing randomly.
Fourth, how many nodes can be added to the amplifier output port?
In the current standard stipulated in the EIA485 protocol, a general recommendation is to add an amplifier to 32 nodes. However, in actual operation, it can also exceed 60 nodes, but there will be security risks of unstable signals.
5. If the signal line is not shielded, can the signal still be transmitted? If so, how far is it?
Many domestic projects use network cables for signal lines, which are basically unshielded, and the transmission distance will definitely be discounted, but it depends on what project is used to make the award. The longest distance can generally reach about 100m.
What should I do if the time between the DMX circuits is not synchronized?
There are several different ports on the same splitter, and some of the individual port output signals will have a significant delay. What you need to do at this time is to reset the controller parameters. The most likely reason for this situation is that the parameters of the controller itself cause the output frequency of each port to be different, which causes the signal output of each port to be out of synchronization.
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