Ethernet protocols and DMX converters: How to choose the best solution for professional lighting control

Lighting control protocols define how data is transmitted between controllers and lighting fixtures.

DMX512 is the foundational protocol for lighting control, using serial data transmission. It divides lighting equipment into addresses from 1 to 512, enabling control over brightness, color, and other parameters for each device. DMX512 is transmitted via specialized RS485 cables, forming a chain of connected devices. Despite its widespread use, DMX512 has limitations, including susceptibility to interference and a restricted number of devices per line.

ArtNet and sACN, as evolutions of serial DMX512, utilize Ethernet. sACN surpasses ArtNet in scalability, supporting up to 65,535 DMX universes compared to ArtNet’s 32,768.

KiNET is a proprietary protocol for LED system control, developed by Philips for dynamic lighting scenarios in commercial and industrial buildings.

DALI is a digital one-way protocol for individual device control, used in theaters, art spaces, and homes.

Implementing these protocols and creating high-quality shows and installations requires specialized equipment. Basic lighting control infrastructure has numerous scalability, speed, and integration limitations. Professional equipment overcomes these constraints, simplifying technicians’ work while unlocking entirely new possibilities.

The choice of lighting control protocol depends on factors such as project scale, required data transmission speed, integration with other systems, and budget. While DMX512 remains the foundation of lighting control, it is best suited for small-scale amateur and non-commercial projects. For large, complex systems, network protocols like ArtNet, sACN, or specialized solutions like KiNET and DALI are more suitable.

DMX512 has several limitations to consider when designing and implementing lighting systems:

• A single DMX512 line can connect no more than 32 devices.
• The maximum line length is 200 meters; exceeding this degrades signal quality.
• DMX512 is one-way (controller to fixtures). Lack of feedback limits device interaction and complicates diagnostics. However, the RDM protocol adds bidirectional communication, enabling data transmission from fixtures to the controller.
• DMX512 signals are susceptible to electromagnetic interference, necessitating the use of shielded cables.
• DMX512 data transfer speed is 250 kbit/s. More devices on a line reduce signal quality. Connected devices can create interference, destabilizing the system.

Modern lighting fixtures, such as moving heads, provide extensive capabilities like color mixing, gobo selection, prism effects, and more. Each of these functions requires dedicated DMX channels, meaning even a modest rig of advanced fixtures can consume hundreds of channels. This quickly depletes the 512-channel capacity of a single DMX universe, severely limiting system scalability. In practice, a standard DMX512 network may struggle to support more than five modern fixtures due to channel exhaustion.

The shift to Ethernet-based protocols like ArtNet and sACN emerged to address these scalability constraints. These protocols leverage Ethernet’s robust infrastructure to deliver:

Noise immunity: Reduced signal degradation in electrically noisy environments.

High-speed data transfer: Supports thousands of DMX universes over a single 100 Mbps network link.

Long-distance transmission: Achieves hundreds of meters with standard CAT5e/CAT6 cables or thousands of meters via fiber optics—far exceeding DMX’s 1,200-meter limit.

Cost efficiency: Twisted-pair Ethernet cables are more affordable than shielded DMX cables.

However, since most lighting fixtures still rely on DMX512-A for direct control, protocol converters are critical. These devices bridge the gap by translating Ethernet-based protocols (like ArtNet/sACN) into standard DMX512-A signals, ensuring compatibility with legacy and modern fixtures alike.
 

Control consoles generate digital commands transmitted via Ethernet to converters. Converters then transform this data into DMX signals for fixtures.

The converter allows you to customize the mapping between the virtual universes in the software and the physical ports on the converter. 

User-friendly interface converters Sundrax simplifies the management of devices used for lighting design clubs, concert halls, and stadiums. For professional control of LED strips, there is a family of PixelGate converting to SPI.
 

Sundrax’s high-end converters combine performance, reliability, and ease of use, making them ideal for lighting technicians.

1. Professional connectors, no moving parts, and efficient cooling ensure longevity and stability in harsh conditions.
2. Minimal software components and optimized architecture enable instant response, crucial for dynamic shows.
3. Intuitive interfaces and auto-configuration simplify operation. Use ArtGate Setting or compatible software (e.g., ARISTO) to optimize devices for specific projects.
4. Signal redundancy, protocol support, and data format flexibility ensure adaptable lighting systems.
5. Built-in Watchdog monitoring and auto-reboot prevent failures and ensure continuity.

Details matter in creating stunning shows. Our equipment’s exceptional quality lets you focus on creativity, not technical issues. Every component, including printed circuit boards, manufactured by our experts is of the highest standards for smooth operation.

DMX converters facilitate bidirectional communication between Ethernet-based networks (e.g., Art-Net, sACN) and DMX512-A universes. This architecture empowers designers to build scalable, hybrid lighting systems, where DMX can serve as either the control source (e.g., from a lighting desk) or the output (to fixtures). By leveraging Ethernet’s long-range capabilities, DMX signals travel over IP networks and are converted back to DMX at the endpoint, ensuring precise fixture control even in distributed setups.

Sundrax converters excel at integrating disparate system elements—whether legacy DMX devices, modern Ethernet controllers, or networked nodes—into a cohesive ecosystem. For example:

    A lighting console transmitting sACN over Ethernet can interface with DMX fixtures via a Sundrax converter at the stage end.

    Conversely, a DMX signal from a hardware controller can be routed into an IP network for centralized management.

This eliminates the need for bulky DMX cable runs, replacing them with a single CAT6/optical backbone that handles thousands of channels. The result? Faster deployment, reduced infrastructure costs, and effortless scalability for venues ranging from theaters to stadiums.

The GigaJet20 Pro, GigaJet Pro, ArtGate Pro, and ArtGate DIN converters have trigger inputs.

In an emergency, such as a fire, the fire alarm system transmits a signal to the trigger input of one of these devices. In response to this signal, the lighting system automatically enters a pre-programmed emergency mode. This may include turning on emergency lighting, creating directional light beams for evacuation, and other scenes. A particular scene will be an obvious signal that cannot be missed because of the music.

In a panic situation where correct manual control is not possible, the automatic and instantaneous triggers of a high-end converter will help to promptly take action, promoting safety.

Thanks to the trigger, lighting can also be set up for routine processes - so that it starts without interaction with the remote control. If maintenance is required, a special lighting mode will be triggered for safe work.
 

In professional stage lighting, it's often necessary to use multiple lighting consoles to control a single lighting rig. For example, in a theater, the main lighting desk may be operated by the lighting designer, while an assistant director controls an additional console. Each desk manages its own group of fixtures, but all fixtures need to function in perfect sync.

Sundrax converters support DMX signal merging, allowing two DMX consoles to connect to a single device and merge their output based on predefined rules. For example, the ArtGate Pro supports merging modes such as HTP, LTP, AUTO, and PRIORITY. Both consoles send data to the same DMX universe, and the fixtures receive commands sequentially, effectively switching between sources.

The intelligent merging feature in Sundrax devices enables seamless integration of DMX signals, ensuring flexible and dynamic lighting control. These converters analyze incoming DMX signals from multiple consoles and determine which commands should take precedence at any given moment. For instance, if two consoles send conflicting brightness commands to the same fixture simultaneously, the device will prioritize either the higher-value command or the most recent one, depending on the selected merging mode.

By using a converter with intelligent merging capabilities, multiple operators can control different groups of fixtures simultaneously. Moreover, if one console fails, the other seamlessly takes over, ensuring uninterrupted control of the lighting system.

Sundrax converters' advantages are expressed not only in technology but also in housings - they are lightweight and compact. The absence of openings extends device lifespan by preventing dust, moisture, and smoke from entering.

PRO Series - Rack Mounting - a compact solution for large-scale lighting control. Rack-mount units occupying only 1U in the rack offer a complete set of functions for lighting control in large projects. Maximum set of options and high performance in a housing just 11 centimeters deep. Rack Mounting converters' operating temperatures range from 0 to +60°C.

The GigaJet20 Pro model, occupying 2U, offers even more capabilities for large-scale projects while weighing less than 1.5 kilograms.

Solid - the device's waterproof housing is made from 3mm duralumin profile using casting method, giving it dust and splash protection with IP44 rating. Surface anodizing provides increased corrosion resistance and unchanged appearance. ArtGate Solid can be used at the most important events without worrying about device safety. It's designed for mounting on trusses, horizontal or vertical surfaces. Solid operates indoors at temperatures from 0 to +60°C. The compact and light housing weighing only 1.2 kg simplifies installation and transportation.

DIN - converters for DIN rail mounting allow efficient space use. DMX 512 converters in DIN housings are equipped with convenient terminal blocks. Laser engraving on the housing is permanent - making device use convenient throughout its service life.

Arma - these unique devices can operate at temperatures from -40 to +70°C. Going beyond the European standard limited to -25°C, we offer DMX converters that work excellently worldwide, installed outdoors on flat surfaces using a clamp.

Compact - converter in a junction box housing. DMX will be where it's needed, regardless of room configuration.

Board - a small board installed in hatches and niches for indoor operation. Real solutions for lighting control in miniature. Complete functionality without housing - OEM solutions for custom hardware development

Sundrax converters include ArtGate, PowerGate, GigaJet, and DALIGate families, compatible with DMX512, RDM, ArtNet, sACN, KiNET, RTTrPL, and Ethernet.

ArtGate

ArtGate is an intelligent Ethernet-to-DMX converter with built-in signal merging and redundancy features.

ArtGate supports daisy-chaining for power, DMX, and Ethernet, enabling the creation of flexible and reliable lighting control systems. This architecture allows for easy system expansion by adding new devices without requiring extra equipment.

All XLR ports are bidirectional, meaning they can function as either inputs or outputs, providing numerous configuration possibilities.

ArtGate Models:

Pro – A full-featured converter available with 4 or 8 DMX ports, with optional etherCON configurations. It includes 2 Ethernet ports for easy expansion, redundancy, and daisy-chaining. Additionally, 2 trigger inputs enhance control flexibility. Power is supplied via a reliable PowerCON connector. The robust metal casing ensures durability, with a total weight of 1.2 kg.

Solid – Available with 2 or 4 DMX ports and 2 or 4 XLR ports (M or F). It features 2 Ethernet ports and a vandal-resistant housing. The device weighs 1.2 kg.

DIN – Offers 4 or 8 DMX ports in the form of terminal blocks. It includes 2 trigger inputs and Ethernet ports. The compact and multifunctional DIN-rail-mountable converter supports merging and weighs 0.85 kg, occupying 12 modules in an electrical cabinet.

Arma – Available with 2 or 4 DMX ports, connected via terminal blocks. It includes 2 Ethernet ports and 2 professional-grade Ethernet connectors.

Compact – A miniature converter housed in a specialized casing, featuring 2 DMX ports and PoE-powered Ethernet. It has 1 Ethernet port and is exceptionally lightweight (100 g). Designed for touring artists and lighting technicians, it is ideal for unconventional projects requiring a portable yet reliable DMX solution.

Board – A high-performance Art-Net/sACN-to-DMX converter in a PCB format, weighing just 50 g. It includes 1 DMX port, 1 Ethernet port, and an optional etherCON connector.

PowerGate

The PowerGate lighting control technology integrates PWRDMX, DMX512, RDM, ArtNet, sACN, KiNet, and RTTrPL protocols, transmitting signals over power lines up to 400 meters, with Ethernet network redundancy. PowerGate is indispensable when additional cabling is difficult to install. One device operates in transmission mode, connecting to a DMX signal source, while another operates in receiving mode, connecting to lighting fixtures.

PowerGate Models:

Solid – Available with 1 or 4 DMX ports and 3-pin or 5-pin XLR connectors. Features 1 Ethernet port for additional device connections and 1 Ethernet jack (RJ-45 or etherCON).

Arma – A Powerline-to-DMX converter with 1 or 4 ports, presented as terminal blocks. It includes 1 Ethernet port and 1 Ethernet connector.

GigaJet

GigaJet is Sundrax's only hybrid converter and a unique solution in professional lighting control. It supports a wide range of protocols and enables the creation of complex lighting installations by transmitting DMX signals over long distances via fiber-optic cables while networking multiple DMX devices.

Equipped with a 5-port Ethernet switch, PoE support, dual power supply, and data redundancy, GigaJet ensures maximum reliability. It also features SFP outputs for fiber-optic connections.

Unlike other devices requiring additional components like media converters, GigaJet combines a switch, media converter, and full DMX converter into one unit.

Ethernet ports are compatible with standard RJ-45 connectors and rugged etherCON connectors for increased durability.

GigaJet Models:

GigaJet20 Pro – A 19-inch, 2U rack-mounted converter with 20 ports, supporting up to 10 physical DMX devices per port. Includes 3 Ethernet ports (1 with PoE support), 1 SFP optical port, and trigger inputs via terminal blocks.

GigaJet Pro – A rack-mountable converter featuring 8 DMX ports (2 XLR 5-pin inputs and 8 XLR 5-pin outputs), 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports with PoE support, 1 SFP optical port, and a terminal block for external trigger connections.

DALIGate

DALIGate is a universal DALI protocol converter, compatible with DMX512, RDM, ArtNet, sACN, KiNet, and RTTrPL.

The device automatically detects connected DALI fixtures and enables control via a DMX console or software, supporting channel-based, device-based, or group-based operation. DALIGate expands the capabilities of lighting designers in creating adaptive lighting systems for theaters, exhibition halls, and shopping centers.

Housed in a DIN-rail mountable ergonomic design, DALIGate installs in two steps, occupying 8 modules. The converter operates on AC mains power and features a high-speed Ethernet port for easy configuration.

Compact and Lightweight Design: We provide the most compact devices in the professional stage equipment market, ensuring effortless installation and transport.
Flexible Configuration Options: Choose from models with varying DMX port counts, including 3-pin, 5-pin, and RJ-45 connectors.
Bidirectional DMX Ports: All ports serve as configurable inputs or outputs, enhancing setup versatility.
Dual Power Options: Supports both Power over Ethernet (PoE) and traditional power supplies.
Galvanic Isolation: Full port isolation safeguards connected devices and cables from power surges or grid instability.
Extensive Protocol Compatibility: Works seamlessly with ArtNet, sACN, and other industry-standard lighting protocols.
Robust Durability: Operates reliably across a wide voltage range (up to 305 V).
Silent Passive Cooling: Fanless design with natural heat dissipation for noise-free performance.
Versatile Mounting Solutions: Wall, ceiling, DIN-rail, rack, or outdoor IP65-rated enclosure options.
Energy-Efficient Operation: Draws under 5 W at maximum load.
Intuitive Web Interface: Easily configure settings via a browser-based control panel.
Signal Integrity Protection: Each port includes a 120 Ω terminator (toggleable via the web interface) to eliminate signal reflection.
Redundant Network Connectivity: Dual Ethernet ports and a backup IP ensure uninterrupted access.
Three-Year Warranty: Backed by a comprehensive warranty for peace of mind.
 

1. What is PoE, and why is it beneficial?
   PoE (Power over Ethernet) delivers both data and power through a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and reducing cabling clutter.
2. Are the DMX ports bidirectional?
   Yes—all DMX ports are software-configurable as inputs or outputs to suit your workflow.
3. Is the equipment suitable for outdoor use?
   The ArtGate Arma model, with its IP65-rated enclosure, is engineered for outdoor environments.
4. How do I configure protocols and ports?
   Adjust settings like protocol selection and port behavior through the intuitive web interface.
5. What if the primary IP address is lost?
   A dedicated backup IP ensures continuous access to the device for troubleshooting and recovery.
6. What is RDM, and how is it implemented?
   RDM (Remote Device Management) extends DMX with bidirectional communication, enabling remote configuration, status monitoring, and diagnostics. Sundrax’s integrated RDM filter resolves compatibility conflicts and interference.
7. How are firmware updates performed?
   Download the latest firmware from our website and install it directly via the web interface.
8. Do the devices include a warranty?
   All Sundrax converters are covered by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
9. How many converter families does Sundrax offer?
   Four specialized families: ArtGate (protocol conversion), PowerGate (high-power applications), GigaJet (high-speed networks), and DALIGate (DALI integration). Each is optimized for distinct use cases.

For assistance selecting the ideal converter for your professional lighting project, contact us at 

+44 (0)20 3868 9976 or sales@sundrax.com

No matter the scale or complexity, we’ll deliver tailored solutions for seamless lighting control. Our global presence guarantees expert support wherever your project takes you.