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Techni-Lux DL-LEDIF150TCO User Manual

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Type: User Manual
Category: DJ Equipment
Pages: 15
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Information specifically for:

 

 

 DL-LEDIF150TCO 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

V1.0 

This manual contains important information.

Please read before operating fixture.

 


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 2

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

 

 
 

Save original packing and documentation for warranty, service and return issues

 
 
Limited Warranty: This warranty covers defects or malfunctions in this equipment.  This warranty lasts 
for a period of one year from date of purchase.  It is the owner’s responsibility to provide invoices for 
proof of purchase, purchase date and dealer or distributor.  If purchase date can not be provided, 
warranty period will start at manufacture date.  It is the sole discretion of Techni-Lux to repair or replace 
parts or equipment.   All shipping will be paid by purchaser.  This warranty does not cover lamps, fuses, 
belts, power semiconductors, relays, cleaning, standard maintenance adjustments or normal wear items 
or any problem resulting from the following: improper wiring, incorrect voltage (including low or over 
voltage conditions and lightning), abuse, misuse, improper maintenance or an act of God or damage 
resulting from shipping.  Warranty will be null and void if the product is altered, modified, misused, 
damaged, or subjected to unauthorized repairs.  Lamps are covered by relevant manufacturer warranty. 
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to 
state.  Any liability for consequential and incidental damages is expressly disclaimed.  No other warranty, 
expressed or implied is made.  Techni-Lux liability in all events is limited to, and shall not exceed, the 
purchase price paid. 
 
Returning equipment and Repairs:  All returns must be accompanied by a Return Merchandise 
Authorization (RMA) number and sent pre-paid.  Contact the dealer or Techni-Lux directly to obtain an 
RMA.  The RMA number must be clearly listed on the shipping label.  Due care must be exercised in 
packing all merchandise to be returned.  All repairs must be accompanied by a written explanation of the 
claimed problem or error encountered.  Techni-Lux is solely responsible for determining a product’s 
eligibility for coverage under warranty.  If returning for consideration of credit, all accessories and 
documentation, original protective material and cartons must be included and the equipment, packing 
and carton must be in new resalable condition. Credit for returned merchandise will be issued at the 
lowest current price and is subject to a restocking fee.  No returns accepted on discontinued items.  
Techni-Lux is not responsible for merchandise damaged in transit and reserves the right to refuse any 
return that is damaged by the carrier, not accompanied by a Return Authorization Number (RMA#) or 
sent by freight collect.   
 
Claims:  All claims must be made within seven (7) days of receipt of merchandise.  Any physical damage 
must be reported to carrier upon receipt of merchandise. 
 
 

Please record the following information for future reference: 
Model Number:  

DL-LEDIF150TCO 

  

 

Serial Number: ________________________________________ 

 

Dealer: ______________________________________________ 

 

Date of Purchase: ______________________________________ 

 
 

www.Techni-Lux.com

 

 

 


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 3

 

Table of Contents 

 

Specifications .............................................................................................................................4

 

Unpacking ...................................................................................................................................5

 

Power...........................................................................................................................................5

 

Mounting .....................................................................................................................................5

 

Basic Reference..........................................................................................................................6

 

Setup and Operation Modes (LCD Display)..............................................................................6

 

Control Panel Menu ....................................................................................................................7

 

DMX-512 Control.........................................................................................................................7

 

DMX Data Connection ..............................................................................................................8

 

Data Terminator ........................................................................................................................8

 

Adapter 5-to-3 pin .....................................................................................................................8

 

DMX Start Address ...................................................................................................................9

 

DMX Channel Assignments .......................................................................................................9

 

3 Channel Mode........................................................................................................................9

 

5 Channel Mode......................................................................................................................10

 

6 Channel Mode......................................................................................................................10

 

Channel Values and Functions – 6 Channel Mode.................................................................10

 

CH 1   : Master Dimmer ..........................................................................................................10

 

CH 2   : Strobe ........................................................................................................................10

 

CH 3   : Red ............................................................................................................................11

 

CH 4   : Green.........................................................................................................................11

 

CH 5   : Blue............................................................................................................................11

 

CH 6   : Color Macro/Scroll .....................................................................................................11

 

Remote Control Functions.......................................................................................................12

 

Function of buttons .................................................................................................................12

 

Using the remote to set the DMX address ..............................................................................12

 

Maintenance..............................................................................................................................13

 

Accessory Items (sold separately)..........................................................................................13

 

Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................................14

 

DMX-512 Background...............................................................................................................14

 

 


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 4

Specifications 

 

Fixture Overview  

  RGB color mixing with intensity and strobe effects 

  1  x 150w Tricolor COB LED with Red, Green, Blue and White 

  Beam Angle – 60° 

 Rugged 

Housing 

  Operating modes: DMX, Static scene, Color Scroll, IR remote, Master/Slave  

  Precise DMX control using 3, 5, or 6 channels 

  3 Pin DMX connectors 

  LCD display menu for settings 

  ½” Clamp mounting hole 

  4 leaf Barndoor for beam shaping 

 

Physical  

Color 

   Dark 

Metallic 

Gray 

Size   

 

 

12.6” x 13” x 5.51” 

Weight 

 

 

19.15 lbs (8.7 kgs) 

Housing Material 

 

Aluminum casting and Stainless steel hardware 

 

Environmental 

Location 

     Indoor 

Outdoor 

IP65 

Max. ambient temperature  

 

 

105°F (40°C) 

Min. distance to flammable surface 

 

3.3ft (1m) 

Min. distance to illuminated surface 

 

1ft (0.3m) 

 

Electrical 

Voltage 

 

 

Auto Ranging 100 - 250vAC, 50-60Hz 

Rated 

Power 

  180W 

Fuses  

 

 

Internal 2 amp mini size: 5x20mm  

 

Control 

Digital Protocol 

 

USITT DMX512 (1990) 

Channels 

 

 

3, 5, or 6 maximum 

Data I/O 

 

 

3 Pin XLR (Cannon) 

Modes   DMX512 

or 

Stand-Alone 

 

Optics 

Light Source  

 

1 x high powered 150 watt COB 3-in-1 RGB LED 
Red, Green, and Blue 

Beam 

Angle 

  60° 

 

Rigging 

Orientation 

  Any 

Mounting Points 

 

Adjustable yoke with 1/2” (13mm) mounting hole 

 

 


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 5

Unpacking 

Immediately upon receipt, carefully unpack and inspect the fixture to verify that all parts are 
present and have been received in good condition.  If any parts appear damaged from shipping 
or the shipping carton shows signs of mishandling, notify the shipper immediately.  Retain 
carton and all packing material for inspection.  In the event that the merchandise is to be 
returned, the original carton and packing must be used.  The customer will be billed for a new 
carton and packing if merchandise is received without the original carton and packing. 
 

Claims 

Physical damage must be reported to the Freight Carrier or Shipping Company upon 
receipt of merchandise.  Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the Freight 
Carrier or Shipping Company.  It is the customer’s obligation in the event that 
merchandise is received damaged, to notify the Freight Carrier or Shipping Company 
immediately.  All other claims not related to damage incurred during shipping must be 
made to the Dealer or Distributor within 7 days of receiving merchandise.  

 

Returns 

Returned merchandise must be in the original packing with a Return Merchandise 
Authorization number (RMA) clearly listed on the shipping label.    Items sent by Freight 
Collect or without a RMA number will be refused.   Call your sales person and request a 
RMA prior to shipping.  Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and 
description of the nature of the return.  Shipping damage resulting from inadequate 
packaging is the customer’s responsibility.  Customer will be charged additional shipping 
charges to return products received in non original packing and or cartons. 

 
 

Power 

 

Do not apply power to the fixture until power source is verified. 

 

For protection against electric shock, fixture must be connected to suitable earth ground. 
Make sure fixture is disconnected from power mains before any service. 

 
The mains voltage and frequency of this fixture is automatically set. It may operate on an input 
AC voltage ranging from 100 to 250volts, 50/60Hz.  The listed power rating is its average 
wattage under normal conditions. All fixtures must be powered directly from a switched circuit.  
This fixture cannot be run on a rheostat or dimmer circuit even if used solely for a 0% to 100% 
switching.  Before applying power to a fixture, check that the fixture’s input voltage matches the 
power source voltage.  Consult a qualified electrician if there are any concerns about proper 
connection to power. 
 

Mounting 

Always consult a qualified professional when rigging.  Consider access for routine maintenance 
when selecting a mounting position. This fixture may be mounted in any position provided there 
is adequate room for movement and ventilation.  Mount the fixture securely using a mounting 
clamp and a safety cable. Always keep cords out of the way, thus preventing any trip hazards. 
Secure all cables properly. Do not mount where the fixture will be exposed to extreme 
temperature changes or restricted ventilation.  Do not obstruct any vents. 

 

 


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 6

Basic Reference 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

 
LCD Display 
 
 
 
 
                          

                            

                   
Power Input       

Power Output 

Cable                

Cable      

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
                          

                            

                                             
                                                                                                               
Data Input Cable                                 Menu Setting Buttons                      Data Output Cable 
 

 

Setup and Operation Modes (LCD Display) 

 
This fixture includes a 4 leaf adjustable barndoor. Each leaf can independently 
be moved in and out. Barndoors can be used to control the light beam, reduce 
glare and light spill. The barndoor can also be used to block light off of surfaces 
where light may not be desired. 
  

The following refers to the different modes that are available on this fixture via the LCD Control 
Panel display. All functions are selectable from the display menu located at the back of the 
fixture. 
 

Note

: The actual fixture may vary from the illustrations shown in this manual. 

 


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Control Panel Menu 

Use the fixture’s Control Panel to access the Control Menu.  The MODE Key puts the 
fixture in the settings menu itself and also acts as a BACK key between options, 
UP/DOWN moves through the menu options and allows the assignment of a value. The 
ENTER key is used to enter that option and confirms the selection once the UP/DOWN 
is used to adjust the value. When in edit, the display will Flash. Settings are stored and 
recalled on subsequent power cycles. R, G, B refers to Red, Green, and Blue 
respectively. DMX and master/slave modes require data cables to be connected between 
fixtures. Manual and some stand-alone modes do not require data cables for 
independent use of the fixture.  The display will shut off after 30 seconds, press any 
button to relight it.  

 

 
Note:

  The factory default CHANNEL MODE is set to “06” the 6 channel DMX mode. 

 

DMX-512 Control

 

 
Fixtures require a "Start Address" from 1 to 512, setting the first DMX channel containing data 
for the fixture (see DMX Background).  Before addressing fixtures, consult the manual of the 
system’s DMX controller to select a desirable addressing scheme.  Valid Start Addresses range 
from 1 to 512.  Fixtures requiring more than one channel for control will read subsequent 
channels up to the total number of channels required.  Since this fixture requires a maximum of 
6 channels of DMX, if set to a Start Address of 7 it would use data from channels: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 
and 12.   Choose a Start Address so the channels used do not overlap with other fixtures.  In 
some cases, it may be desirable to set two or more same type fixtures to the same Start 
Address.  In this case, the fixtures will be slaved together and respond to the same data.  
Because all fixtures see the same data, fixtures may be set to any address without concern for 
the order they are connected by the DMX cables.   

Menu Options 

Function 

Options 

DMX MODE 

 

 

ADDR 

Select DMX Start Address 

001-512 

CHANNEL 

Select Number of DMX Operating Channels 

CH:

 03 = 3 ch, 05 = 5 ch or 06 = 6 channels 

STATIC 

Allows a static scene to be set 

R00G00B00  F00 

set R 0-255, G 0-255, B 0-255 
F Flash speed from 00 to 99 
 

CHANGE-7 

7 Color change scroll 

SP01-99  F00-99 

Sets color change speed from 01-99 
Set flash speed from 00-99 

 

CHANGE-3 

3 Color change scroll 

SP01-99  F00-99 

Sets color change speed from 01-99 
Set flash speed from 00-99 

 

DREAM 
 

7 Color fading 
 

SP01-99  F00-99 

Sets color change speed from 01-99 
Set flash speed from 00-99 

 

MASTER/ 
SLAVE MODE 

Selects master or slave mode 

MASTER

: master fixture 

SLAVE

: slave fixture 

 


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 8

Note:

 For DMX to operate on this unit must be set to SLAVE mode. 

 

DMX Data Connection 

This fixture uses 3 pin XLR type connectors and shielded twisted pair cable approved for 
EIA-422/EIA485 use.  Fixtures are connected in Daisy Chain topography:  Connection is 
made from the controller to the DMX-IN of the first light, then from the DMX-OUT to the 
DMX-IN of the next light and so on.  Only one data source can be on a chain and no 
branching is allowed.  The physical order in which the fixtures are connected is not 
important, use the most convenient.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

Data Terminator 

A Data Terminator can be connected to the DMX-OUT of the last fixture 
to reduce the effects of signal noise; it is not required for all installations. 
To make a Terminator, connect a 120-ohm ¼ watt resistor across pin 2, 
Data Negative (S-) and pin 3, Data positive (S+). A qualified technician 
can determine if a Data Terminator is needed. 

 

Adapter

 

5-to-3 pin 

Systems using 5 pin DMX interfaces can be accommodated by purchasing 3-to-5 pin 
adapters or building adapter cables.  Numbers designating each pin can be found on 
connectors.  Converting between the two XLR types is done in a pin-to-pin fashion.   
Connect the shields to pin 1, then connect pin 2 to pin 2 and pin 3 to pin 3, regardless of 
either connector’s gender or pin count.  No connection is made to Pins 4 & 5. 
 
 

 

 

DMX-OUT

1

- Ground

- Signal (-)

- Signal (+)

XLR Connector - Socket:

 

DMX-IN



- Ground
- Signal (-)
- Signal (+)

XLR Connector - Plug:

5 Pin XLR (Plug)
Pin 1: GND(Sheild)

Pin 2: Signal(-)

Pin 3: Signal(+)

Pin 4: N/C

Pin 5: N/C

3 XLR 

(S

)

Pin 1: GND(Sheild)

Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)

Pin ocket

5 Pin XLR (Socket)

Pin 1: GND(Sheild)
Pin 2: Signal(-)

Pin 3: Signal(+)

Pin 4: N/C

Pin 5: N/C

3  

XLR 

(Plug)

Pin 1: GND(Sheild)

Pin 2: Signal(-)
Pin 3: Signal(+)

Pin

 


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DMX Start Address 

To place the fixture in DMX mode, press the MENU key, then using the UP/DOWN keys 
get to the Address Menu Option. Press ENTER and using the UP/DOWN buttons, set 
the start address number for this particular unit in the DMX chain. Once selected, press 
ENTER again to save your selection.  More than one fixture may have the same start 
address, but they will behave the same. Giving a unique start address that does not 
overlap with any other units allows you to individually control that fixture’s features fully. 
Never allow channels to overlap.  You will need to select the number of channels you 
wish the fixture to use first.  Your choices are 3, 5, or 6 channel modes.  This will 
determine the spacing of channels you will need to avoid overlapping of channels when 
selecting your start addresses. 

 

Example

 

Select Start Addresses for 4 fixtures each requiring 6 channels of DMX (6 

channel mode).

 

For this example, start with the first unit set to the first possible Start Address = 

1

.  This fixture 

occupies DMX channels 1 thru 6.  The next DMX channel available for a Start Address is found 
by adding the previous fixture’s Start Address to its channel requirement: 1+6=

7

.  To maximize 

channel usage, we will leave no empty channels between fixtures so the second Start Address is 
set to DMX channel 

7

 and that fixture occupies channels 7 thru 12.  The third fixture will be 

addressed 7+6=

13

 and occupy channels 13 thru 18.  The last fixture is addressed 13+6=

19

 and 

will occupy channels 19 thru 24.  Thus, 4 fixtures using 6 channels each have Start Addresses of 

1, 7, 13

 and 

19

 and the next free channel in the system is 19+6=25.  

 
 

DMX Channel Assignments 

This fixture features 3 different DMX Channel modes.  A 3, 5, and 6 channel mode.  
Using the 6 channel mode provides the most features, however it takes up the most 
channels of DMX. The different channel assignments are shown below. 

The factory 

default is the 6 channel mode “06”.

 We will provide a full description of the values and 

functions of the 6 channel mode only. All other modes of less channels, do the same 
functions described within the 6 channel mode. 

Note that the channel order maybe 

different for each of the modes.

     

   

 

 
 

 

3 Channel Mode

  

 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

Channel Function 

1 Red 

(0-255) 

2 Green 

(0-255) 

3 Blue 

(0-255) 

 


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5 Channel Mode

  

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

6 Channel Mode 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Channel Values and Functions – 6 Channel Mode 

 
 

CH 1   : Master Dimmer 

The Master Dimmer controls the 
actual output level while the 
relative level of each color is set 
by the R, G, B or W channels. 
 

 

CH 2   : Strobe 

The Strobe functions in all 
modes.  The strobe effect will 
toggle the Master Level 
between Off and its present 
value. 

 
 

Channel Function 

1 Red 

(0-255) 

2 Green 

(0-255) 

3 Blue 

(0-255) 

Master Dimmer (0-255) 

000-000  On – No Function 
001-005  Off – No output 
006-010  On 
011-255  Strobe (slow to fast) 

Channel Function 

Master Dimmer (0-255) 

Strobe slow to fast (0-255) 

3 Red 

(0-255) 

4 Green 

(0-255) 

5 Blue 

(0-255) 

000-004  No Function 
005-125  7 Color change 
126-255  7 Color dream fade 

CH 1 – Master Dimmer 

DMX Value 

Function 

0–255 

Intensity from off to full brightness 

CH 2 – Strobe 

DMX Value  Function 

0-255 

Strobe Effect - Slow to Fast 

 


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11

CH 3   : Red 

Sets relative intensity of Red.  
Actual value is subject to Master 
Dimmer channels.  

 

 

CH 4   : Green 

Sets relative intensity of Green. 
Actual value is subject to Master 
Dimmer channels. 
 
 

 

CH 5   : Blue 

Sets relative intensity of Blue.  
Actual value is subject to Master 
Dimmer channels.   

 

 

 
 

CH 6   : Color Macro/Scroll 

The Color Macro/Scroll scrolls between 7 colors either by snapping from one color to the 
next or by fading. This will override the relative values set by the individual RGB channels 
3, 4, & 5. 

 

CH 6 – Color Macro/Scroll 

DMX Value 

Function 

0-4 

No Macro or Scroll 

005-125 

7 color change snap 

126-255 

7 color change fading 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

CH 3 – Red 

DMX Value 

Function 

0-255 

Intensity - Off to Full On 

CH 4 – Green 

DMX Value 

Function 

0-255 

Intensity - Off to Full On 

CH 5 – Blue 

DMX Value 

Function 

0-255 

Intensity - Off to Full On 

 


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12

Remote Control Functions 

This fixture includes an IR remote control that can be used to make settings and operate the 
unit manually. It can be used without the need for a DMX controller and in standalone 
applications. The remote uses IR technology to communicate with the fixture, so it is important 
that the remote be aimed at the light directly. If more than one unit is nearby, it may require you 
to get closer to the unit when trying to independently set one unit only.  Several may respond to 
the same IR signal. 

 

 

Function of buttons 

 

Function of buttons 

Button Function 

BLACKOUT 

LED off 

SPR 

Built-in programs, adjust via “-/+” to select the 3 scenes. 

FL 

Flash on/off, adjust speed via “-/+”  

SP 

Speed control, via “-/+” to adjust the color change speed and dream 
fade speed 

DMX mode 

SA 

Not in use 

SL 

Master/slave mode 

Setting DMX address using the numeric 0, 1, 2, 3 ,4 ,5, 6, 7, 8, 9 

R(red)

G(green) 

B(blue)

 

Static color, via “-/+” to adjust the brightness of R/G/B 

 

 

Using the remote to set the DMX address 

The following are the steps to follow to set the DMX address using the Remote control. In 
this example, the fixture is set to DMX start address of 246.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Note:

 When entering lower DMX addresses, use zeros in the front, ie; 001 or 034. 

 

Steps for setting DMX with the remote 

Step Function 

Press S (unit indicates by RED On) 

Then press 2, (unit indicates by Green On) 

Then press 4, (unit indicates by Blue On) 

Then press 6, (unit indicates by RGB White 
On) 

 


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13

Maintenance 

Make sure fixture is cool and disconnected from power mains before any service. 

 

 

Weekly operating hours and environmental conditions will establish how often the fixtures need 
cleaning.  Fixtures should be cleaned and inspected at least once a month to maintain optimum 
performance.  Accumulation of dust and fog residue increases heat build up, can lead to 
malfunctions, overheating and reduction in maximum light output, reduced fixture life and over 
all performance.  Before conducting any maintenance, disconnect fixture from power mains.   
  
1) Disconnect fixture from power mains. 
2) Use a vacuum with a soft brush to remove dust collected on external vents and internal 
components.  If using an air compressor, use low pressures and extreme care to prevent 
damaging any internal parts or effects. 
4) Clean all optical elements when the fixture is cold.  Use a soft lint free cotton cloth or tissue 
and cleaner safe for plastics.  
5) Inspect clamps and safety cables to ensure fixture is secure and safe. 
 
 

Accessory Items 

(sold separately)

 

 

Order Code 

Description 

CLAMP-MEGA/BSS 

Mega Heavy Duty Aluminum Clamp w/Stainless – Black 

CLAMP-CBHALF 

Half Cheeseborough Coupler 300kg Max Load  

 

 

SAFETYCABLE18B 

Safety Cable Black 18” 

SAFETYCABLE18S 

Safety Cable Silver 18” 

 

 

 

 

ZEPO0005 

Extension IP Link Jumper Power Cable - 6' with male to 
female connectors – Black 

ZEPO0006 

Extension IP Link Jumper Data Cable - 6' with male to 
female connectors – Black 

 

 

CA-XLR3/5 

Pre-made 5’  3-pin XLR Cable 

CA-XLR3/10 

Pre-made 10’ 3-pin XLR Cable 

CA-XLR3/25 

Pre-made 25’ 3-pin XLR Cable 

CA-XLR3/50 

Pre-made 50’ 3-pin XLR Cable 

CA-XLR3/100 

Pre-made 100’ 3-pin XLR Cable 

 

 

CO-XLR3M   

XLR Connector 3-pin Male 

CO-XLR3F 

XLR Connector 3-pin Female 

 

 

CO-XLRTERM3 

XLR 3 Pin Data Terminator 

 

 

CO-XLR3MTO5F 

XLR 3 Pin Male to 5 Pin Female Adapter 

CO-XLR5MTO3F 

XLR 5 Pin Male to 3 Pin Female Adapter 

 

 


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14

Troubleshooting 

Symptom 

Possible Cause / Solution 

Check for power on mains 

No Power 

Check main fuse and fuse holder 
Check data cables: connection and proper wiring 
Check Display settings 

Erratic / No response to DMX 

Check Start Address 
Check Start Address 
Check for overlapping addresses 
Check Menu settings 

Incorrectly responds to DMX 
(Diagnostic technique for DMX issues: Set 
suspect fixture’s Start Address the same as a 
correctly functioning fixture. If both units then 
function correctly, issue is programming) 

Check Data cables (faults and proper wiring) 

 
 

DMX-512 Background 

DMX-512 is a digital data transmission standard developed by the United States Institute for Theater Technology 
(USITT).  It is designed to enable control of lighting equipment.  DMX deals solely with the formatting of data for 
transmission and does not dictate how the data is created or used. 
 
Under DMX, signals are transmitted in much the same way a computer modem transmits data.  The Data, divided 
into channels, is "Framed" using a start bit, high (1), eight data bits and finally, two stop bits, both high (1). DMX 
uses no parity to check the integrity of the signal.  Instead, DMX relies on the ultra low probability of an error 
occurring in the same place when the data is resent.  The rate at which data is sent is fixed at 250k bps, almost four 
and a half times faster that a 56k modem.   This speed allows all data on a DMX chain to be updated more than 44 
times every second. 
 
The transmitted data follows a specific format. DMX allows for 512 channels each with eight data bits, giving each 
channel the possibility of 256 values.  When a data "Packet" is sent, all channels are transmitted one after another.  
Even if the data on a specific channel has not been changed, it must be sent.  In a packet, a "start code" of all zeros 
is sent before the data to identify the signal as a Standard DMX transmission.  This start code is transparent to the 
user and is handled by the controller. 
 
The physical signals are transmitted using a twisted pair of wires and a common shield, a configuration called 
Balanced.  The controller and all receiving equipment are connected using a “Daisy Chain" connection.  The signal 
is jumped from the controller to a piece of DMX equipment.  From there, the signal is jumped to the next piece of 
equipment and so on until the last piece of equipment is connected.  No branches are allowed and the signal does 
not come back to the controller.  The final piece of equipment will have only one cable connection.  As a result, all 
equipment connected to the chain will see exactly the same signal whether it is first or last.  When connecting 
equipment, no particular attention needs to be paid to the order in which the equipment is connected.  Depending on 
the conditions and equipment, a line terminator may be required.  If there is any question, in most circumstances the 
addition of a terminator will not degrade the signal.  To make a terminator, attach a 120-ohm resistor between the 
Signal Data Negative and Signal Data Positive pins of a connector in the last piece of equipment in the chain. 
 
The DMX Standard uses 5 pin XLR connectors.  However, it is common to see 
fixtures with 3 pin XLR connectors as these types of balanced or “Lo-Z” cables 
are common in the audio industry.  In either case, pin numbers are the same and 
carry the same signals.  
 

 
 
www.techni-lux.com 

Pin 

Connection 

Common (Shield) 

Data Negative (S- or Cold) 

Data Positive (S+ or Hot) 

n/c (not used) 

n/c (not used)