Tables of content
- FOH (Front of House):
- Two lighting consoles connected to
- DMX Node 1 (e.g., Sundrax GigaJet Pro)
- Output via optical SFP and Ethernet using Art-Net/sACN
- Signal Transmission:
- DMX Node 1 → 2 km via optical fiber cable →
- On stage, the signal is received by DMX Node 2 and DMX Node 3 via Ethernet
- Stage:
- DMX Node 2 controls:
- DMX 1 → smoke machine
- DMX 2 → moving heads
- DMX Node 3 controls:
- DMX 1 → wash lights
- DMX 2 → strobes
- DMX Node 2 controls:
The cable is routed around the main audience area to prevent damage and potential disruptions to the show. The stage is controlled from the main lighting console, with a second console set up as a backup, programmed with the same scene. Additionally, a manual stage control system is implemented.
All control signals are integrated into the GigaJet Pro, which employs merging technology with automatic priority management and data backup functions.
DMX and RDM data are transmitted over optical fiber to a second GigaJet Pro, and then to a third GigaJet Pro, enabling the connection of all equipment and the transmission of multiple DMX universes over long distances.
The system is divided into two logical blocks:
- FOH (Front of House): The lighting control position, serving as the primary control hub.
- Stage: The equipment and fixtures located on stage.
Communication between FOH and the stage is achieved through optical fiber over a distance of 2 km using optical SFP modules.
- FOH: Lighting Control Position
- Two lighting consoles
Connected via Ethernet (RJ45) and operating with ArtNet / sACN protocols.
One console is primary, the other serves as backup or for manual control.
Both are linked to DMX Node 1. - DMX Node 1
- Merges DMX data from all universes from both consoles using merging logic.
- Transmits the combined signal to the stage via an optical SFP module.
- Two lighting consoles
- Stage
- DMX Node 2 and DMX Node 3 are interconnected via Ethernet (ArtNet / sACN).
They receive the signal via optical fiber and distribute it to stage devices through DMX outputs, accommodating both RDM-capable and non-RDM fixtures. - Connected Fixtures:
- Wash lights — connected to DMX Node 3 (DMX 1).
- Strobes — connected to DMX Node 3 (DMX 2).
- Smoke machine — connected to DMX Node 2 (DMX 1).
- Moving Heads — connected to DMX Node 2 (DMX 2).
- DMX Node 2 and DMX Node 3 are interconnected via Ethernet (ArtNet / sACN).
System Features
- Control Redundancy
- If the primary console fails, DMX Node 1 automatically switches control to the backup console using BACKUP logic.
- Optical Transmission
- The optical fiber connection ensures a delay-free and interference-free link between FOH and the stage.
- Flexibility and Scalability
- The system supports expanding the number of DMX Nodes and stage fixtures, as well as controlling Moving Heads via RTTrPL or manually.
Advantages of Using Optical Cable
- Extended Transmission Range: Capable of transmitting signals over distances exceeding 2 km without quality loss.
- Immunity to Electromagnetic Interference: Optical cables are unaffected by external electromagnetic fields, ensuring signal stability.
- Enhanced Safety: No electrical potential between FOH and the stage reduces the risk of ground loops.
- Lightweight and Flexible: Optical cables are lighter and more flexible than copper cables, simplifying installation and transportation.
- Route Planning: Identify the optimal cable path that avoids the audience area.
- Equipment Selection:
- Use devices like the GigaJet Pro to convert DMX/RDM signals to optical format and back.
- Optical Cable Installation:
- Lay the cable along the planned route in a protective conduit, adhering to minimum bend radius requirements.
- Equipment Connection:
- Connect DMX controllers on stage to the lighting fixtures.
- System Testing:
- Verify signal integrity and the proper functioning of all system components.
Using optical cable to transmit DMX signals to a remote stage, bypassing the audience, ensures high-quality and reliable lighting. The benefits of stability and safety make this method ideal for large-scale events.
1. How to transmit DMX signal from FOH to a stage located 100–2000 meters away? 😊
For signal transmission over distances up to 2 km between FOH and the stage, an optical fiber SFP module built into the GigaJet Pro is used. One GigaJet Pro is placed at FOH, and another at the stage, ensuring transmission without delays or losses.
2. Is it possible to control the lighting from two consoles — primary and backup? 👍
Yes. The GigaJet Pro supports merging signals using HTP (Highest Takes Precedence) or BACKUP logic, allowing:
- The primary console at FOH for show programs,
- A backup or manual console on stage for redundancy or local control.
3. What data transmission protocols does GigaJet Pro support? 📡
The device supports:
- ArtNet and sACN over Ethernet for console control,
- RTTrPL for integration with artist tracking systems,
- DMX512 via 20 independent galvanically isolated ports.
4. How is the signal distributed on stage? 💡
One or more GigaJet Pro or compatible DMX nodes are installed on stage, connected to lighting fixtures such as wash lights, strobes, smoke machines, and moving heads via DMX ports.
5. What happens if the primary console fails? ⚠️
If the primary console fails, the GigaJet Pro automatically switches to the backup console using BACKUP logic, ensuring uninterrupted show control.
6. How to synchronize lighting scenes with artist movements on stage? 🎭
Using the RTTrPL (Real-Time Tracking over Ethernet) system:
- The artist wears a beacon or tracker.
- The GigaJet Pro receives tracking data and adjusts lighting (e.g., FollowSpot) in real time.
7. What advantages does GigaJet Pro have over other DMX nodes? 🌟
- 20 galvanically isolated DMX ports.
- Support for SFP optics up to 2 km.
- Backup and merging capabilities.
- Low latency (sub-millisecond) and high reliability.
- Signal prioritization from different sources.
- Industrial-grade design for outdoor reliability.
8. Is it necessary to install repeaters when using optical fiber? 🚫
No. The GigaJet Pro transmits the signal directly via optical fiber without the need for repeaters.
9. How to connect equipment on stage to the nodes? 🔌
Each fixture is connected via DMX outputs from the nodes:
- DMX 1, 2, etc., based on addressing logic (universes),
- Multiple fixtures can share a channel if needed (via splitters, considering load limits).
10. Does GigaJet Pro support hot swapping and monitoring? 🔄
Yes. The device supports:
- Hot swapping of Ethernet and DMX connections,
- Online monitoring of port status, signals, and input data via a web interface or centralized system.
11. Is there protection against overloads and short circuits? 🛡️
Yes. All 20 DMX ports on the GigaJet Pro are galvanically isolated and have current protection, ensuring safe equipment connection.