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Tuesday, 9 October 2012

General Facts About A DMX Splitter

By Alexandra Anderson


Often used in multiplying signals for several cables to use is the digital component referred to as DMX splitter. This particular type of device comes in many different forms. It can take the form of a rail, rack-mounted unit or that of a converter which links cables right into each other. The device is also used for duplicating and preserving digital signals for the expansion of standard networks.

By using splitters, there will be a more centralized control over a number of fixtures through programmable effects that are used in various systems mainly for theatrical lighting. It can also increase networking possibilities. Splitters will not only be dividing the signals, but will also boost these with the use of additional cable extensions along with daisy chains.

This device can further extend the capacity of networks through receiving the inputs transmitted by daisy chains which are the linked trains consisting of inline devices and some cables. Once the input has already been received, splitters will be serving as the sources of output. Daisy chains may branch themselves out when the need for such arises.

There are several types of splitters available in the market nowadays. Rack and truss types are ones which have been designed as attachments to some external structures. Commonly used for attaching them are velcro, clips and safety wires. The attaching feature will permit a more versatile placement along with flexible and faster assemblies.

There are other type of splitters which protects and also buffers signals through the use of some external and internal power supplies. Other kinds make use of light-emitting diode, also known as LED, indicators in revealing details associated to power and data. Just as with splitter, mergers perform somewhat similar functions. A difference between the two though is that instead of splitting, the mergers merge in the signals into one line.

There might be some networks that use several power sources. Others have a power source too far apart. For these networks, using the opto-isolator type of splitters might be essential as this is known to enhance the transmission of signals. However, a user of this device should be wary as a slight difference in applied voltage can cause a current crossover or a signal error. At times, it can even cause damages to the device.

DMX cables will be essential for the operation of these devices. However, there are several factors that users must consider prior to getting on buying the cables. Cables come in many different types and thus, considering which type best fits the component and its use will be essential for proper operation. Among the most common options are either the standard cables or the XLR cables.

The standard cable is known to facilitate data transition in a smoother way than the microphone XLR cable type. It can also make compensations for mixers that come with low output power. When choosing which to buy between these two, buyers should also consider the durability of the materials they have been made from.

Other characteristics essential to consider when it comes to choosing the best cables for a DMX splitter are inductance and capacitance. These two characteristics are actually possessed by all cables however, for sufficient performance, a characteristic impedance of 100 to 120 will be necessary. 120 is known to be the standard nominal rating for cables.




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