Practical DMX
by Nick Mobsby
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In this highly topical and important title, the author discusses DMX Networks and Installations and the equipment involved. Analog networks are also covered and there is an introduction to Ethernet networks and cabling systems.
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About the Author:
Nick Mobsby graduated in electrical and electronic engineering in 1972 and spent his early working life in the theatre. In the mid-seventies he started Eurolight Ltd, specializing in designing and installing lighting systems for theatres, performance venues and TV studios.
During the 1980s his time was split between designing systems and lighting productions for TV, theatre and product presentations which were staged around the world including the USA, UK, Far East and Europe. In 1985 he was appointed Managing Director of Eurolight. Since 1991 Nick has been Projects Director for LSI Projects, designing and installing a considerable number of TV studio, theatre and entertainment related lighting systems across the world. His first book Lighting Systems for TV Studios was published in 2001 and is now in its second edition. He is currently completing a major reference work on Lighting Systems for Performance Venues due for publication in 2006.
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Contents by chapter:
PREFACE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
1 INTRODUCTION TO LIGHTING NETWORKS
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Introduction to DMX
1.3 Other Networks
1.4 Purpose of Book
2 Types of lighting Network
2.1 Introduction
2.2 The Multiplexed Revolution
2.3 Protocols
2.4 Ethernet
2.5
Advanced Control Network
2.6 Other Lighting Networks
3 Analogue Networks
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Analogue Network
3.3 Installation of Analogue Networks
3.4 Trouble Shooting an Analogue Installation
3.5 Conclusions
4 Digital (DMX) Networks
4.1 Introduction to DMX
4.2 Specific DMX Issues
4.3 Brief Description of Structure of DMX Protocol
4.4 DMX Universes
4.5 DMX Transmitters
4.6 DMX Receivers
4.7 Termination and Terminators
4.8 The DMX 512-A 2004 New Standard
4.8.1 New Concepts Introduced in DMX 512-A
4.9 Conclusions
5 DMX Processing Equipment
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Distribution Amplifiers
5.3 Isolation of Distribution Amplifiers
5.4 Merge Units
5.5 Multiplexer and Demultiplexer Units
5.6 Protocol Converters
5.7 Repeaters
5.8 Automatic Back-Up Devices
5.9 Conclusions
6 DMX Installations
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Patch Bays
6.3 Connection Points and Locations
6.4 DMX Inlets and their Location
6.5 DMX Outlets and Where to Locate Them
6.6 DMX Back-Up Devices
6.7 DMX Universes
6.8 Alternative Distribution Systems
6.9 Radio DMX
6.10 Show Networks – Installed and Temporary
6.11 Rigging The Show
6.12 Conclusions
7 Lighting Networks: Cabling and Connectors
7.1 Introduction
7.2 DMX Cables
7.3 CAT 5 and CAT 6 Cables
7.4 Ethernet Cables
7.5 Marking of Cables
7.6 Conclusions
8 Introduction to Ethernet Lighting Networks
8.1 Introduction to Ethernet Networks
8.2 Benefits and Drawbacks of Ethernet Systems
8.3 Ethernet Cable Systems
8.4 Planning the Ethernet Network
8.5 Basic Network Rules
8.6 Adherence to the Cable Length Restrictions
8.7 Why Ethernet?
8.8 The Advanced Control Network
8.9 Cable and Patch Bay Marking
8.10 CANbus Network Protocol
8.11 The Attributes of CANbus
8.12 CANbus Applications
8.13 Conclusions
9 Test Equipment
9.1 Network Testers
9.2 DMX Testers
9.2.1 Low Cost Testers; 9.2.2 Medium Cost Testers; 9.2.3 Professional Testers
9.3 Other Testers
9.4 Ethernet Testers
9.4.1 Ethernet Testing Standards
9.4.2 Testing Wiring
9.4.2.1 What is a 'Certified' Cable?
9.4.2.2 Wire-map
9.4.2.3; Length
9.4.2.4 Attenuation
9.4.2.5 Crosstalk (NEXT)
9.4.3
More Tests for Gigabit Ethernet
9.4.4 Testers
9.4.4.1 Permanent Link Adapters
Conclusions
10 Summary of Practical DMX
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Analogue Networks
10.3 DMX Standards
10.4 DMX Equipment and Networks
10.5 Network Cables
10.6 Ethernet and Other Networks
10.7 Testing Equipment
10.8 Finale
10.9 Useful Contact Addresses
Glossary
INDEX