DMX lighting control systems are different due to the color changing lighting and motion. DMX requires different equipment to control the lighting as well as terminology which may be unfamiliar than traditional lighting or even lighting control systems.
New things can be challenging, we get it and are here to help. Let’s review the five common misconceptions to installing a DMX lighting control system.
Misconception #1 – DMX is Difficult to Design
Designing a DMX lighting control system is easy but there are 3 simple rules to remember when developing your design.
Misconception #2 – Special Wire-Type is Needed
There is a misconception that a special wire is needed to install a DMX system which contractors don’t have handy or must order. Also accompanying this inconvenience is the stranded “fuzzy wires” that must stripped.
Category cables (or CAT-5 cables) are now recognized as part of the standard for DMX lighting (ANSI E1.27-2). CAT-5 cables are very common and used for networking for lighting control systems and more. You may be aware that CAT-5 cables have small solid core wires, and using these wires with compression screw terminals can lead to cracking and snapping, resulting in lots of debugging.
Pathway removes this concern by employing IDC (Insulation Displacement Contact) connectors on their products. These connectors not only eliminate the requirement to strip the wires, which saves time and effort, but most importantly they provide a very reliable connection which helps ensure trouble-free operation of your system.
Pathway IDC Connectors Benefits
All Pathway devices have removable IDC connectors.
Watch this video to learn how easy it is to do DMX terminations.
Misconception #3 – Why do I have to install two separate, disparate systems – dynamic lighting control and energy management lighting controls?
The simple answer is DMX lighting control was created for the entertainment industry and energy management lighting controls were developed for commercial offices, educational spaces, industrial spaces and more. Because they were developed for different purposes, without overlap, different protocols were developed.
Things have changed and today RGB LEDS and DMX lighting are finding their way on commercials projects, such as facades and lobbies. Almost every project today has some type of DMX lighting.
There is a shift coming ... stay tuned.
Misconception #4 – DMX Terminology?!?
Dynamic lighting is colorful and sometimes has movement to create visual interest. The DMX512 lighting protocol was created specifically for performance lighting, such as in theaters or music venues, and requires specific terminology. But it is easy to learn.
Here are a few key terms to know:
Misconception #5 – There is no help for wiring installation questions!
We can help! Pathway has lighting agencies across the US to help you with any wiring or installation questions.
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