DMX Controllers

What is a DMX Controller?

When you step into the world of DMX lighting, you are going to have to understand more complex DJ light equipment.

Allow us to walk you through Digital Multiplex Lighting and how it can improve your listeners’ experience.

Understanding DMX

Digital Multiplex, more commonly known as DMX, is a protocol that DJs can use to control lighting and effects equipment. 

The signal moves in one direction, from the controller all the way to the last light bulb. Basically, DMX is just a protocol, or a set of instructions for lights.

What does a DMX controller do?

Using a DMX software, your DMC controller is the brain of the operation. It transmits the DMX messages, which in turn triggers the lights and any other effect machines you have. 

If your DMX controller is the hardware-only type that does not connect to a computer, your preset DMX address list cannot be customised.

These controllers feature rectangle switchboards that are connected to a series of lights or effect machines. The switchboards can select individual lights or light clusters to be switched on or off, which allows effects like strobe lighting to be available to performers.

DMX controllers have four control modes with varying functions: tone selection, colour selection, program selection, dimming and fading.

Once you have set up the light displays that you will be using, you can customise your display by selecting a colour output, fading and dimming outputs, and any programmed effects. 

Depending on how advanced your controller is, you can make bespoke effects, but in more basic models you will be able to use pre-programmed effects.

Benefits of a DMX Controller

DMX controllers are efficient, easy to use, easy to integrate and scale, and are great for custom lighting options.

Efficient DMX Controllers

DMX controllers work on a low voltage, which makes for a great energy-efficient lighting system. 

East to use DMX Controllerss

No matter the size of your lighting system, you can control it from your laptop or controller. Add effects to your LED lights within the reach of your hand.

Integration and Scalability of DMX Controllers

You can easily add a DMX controller to your existing LED lighting system, allowing for greater scalability and ease in programming scenes and improving your energy efficiency.

Custom Lighting Options

Create custom light shows with a DMX controller, in terms of intensity, colour, and light effect.

DMX Controller FAQs

How do I choose a DMX controller?

You should choose a DMX controller based on what you plan to use it for.

Some controllers have primarily fader switches, whereas some have mostly affect capabilities. If you know you are going to use one of these features more than the other, go for a controller which heavily includes this feature. Alternatively, calculate how many channels you will need from the lighting equipment you plan to use, and purchase a DMX controller that matches this number.

What are DMX channels?

DMX consists of 512 individual channels which are known as a Universe. Each channel is assigned to control different personalities of the light, such as colour, brightness, or effect, and have data values of 0-255.

How many fixtures are in a DMX chain?

There is a 32 fixture rule in DMX chains.

DMX only allows you to connect up to 32 fixtures in a single daisy chain for signal strength. Most people recommend only setting up 16 – 20 fixtures or devices in a Daisy Chain.