Schematic diagram of the stage lighting control system in a concert hall using GigaJet Pro DMX converters

5 Minute Read

In the fast-paced world of theatrical and live event production, a reliable lighting control system is the foundation of a seamless performance. This article dives into a sophisticated setup deployed in a modern concert hall, where the front-of-house (FOH) technical room and stage are bridged by a network of GigaJet Pro DMX/Ethernet converters. Designed for professionals who demand precision and flexibility, this system leverages fiber optic technology and advanced features to manage complex lighting designs with confidence.

Diagram of GigaJet Pro distributing DMX via fiber optics to stage fixtures

GigaJet Pro unit powering a stage lighting rig with DMX cables


System Architecture

🎛️ The backbone of this lighting control network begins in the FOH technical room, located at a distance from the stage. Here, two lighting consoles—a primary unit and a backup—serve as the command hub. These consoles generate multiple DMX universes, the industry-standard protocol for controlling stage lighting and effects. Using Ethernet-based protocols like Art-Net and sACN, both consoles send their data to a GigaJet Pro DMX/Ethernet converter.

The GigaJet Pro, developed by Sundrax, is a compact 1U rack-mounted device that integrates a five-port gigabit Ethernet switch and an SFP media converter for fiber optic output. This unit receives the Ethernet signals from the consoles, converts them into a fiber optic feed, and transmits the data over a single-mode fiber optic cable to the stage. With a range of up to 10 km, this fiber link ensures robust signal integrity across large venues, free from the limitations of traditional copper cabling.

Close-up of GigaJet Pro’s 8 optically isolated DMX ports


Stage-Level GigaJet Pro (Stage Floor Unit)

At the stage, a second GigaJet Pro unit receives the fiber optic signal via its SFP port. Positioned near the stage floor, this device acts as the distribution hub for stage-level equipment. It outputs DMX universes through its eight optically isolated DMX ports, delivering clean and interference-free signals to a range of devices, including:

  • Rotating light fixtures for dynamic beam movement.
  • Smoke-generating machines to enhance atmospheric effects.
  • Pyrotechnic devices for impactful visual moments.
  • Lasers for sharp, precise lighting effects.
  • Other DMX-controlled units, such as LED effects or additional fixtures positioned around the stage.

Beyond signal distribution, this GigaJet Pro supports the RDM (Remote Device Management) protocol (ANSI E1.20). This enables two-way communication with the connected equipment, collecting responses like device status, addressing details, and diagnostic data. These RDM responses are transmitted back to the FOH over the fiber optic channel, giving technicians real-time visibility into the system’s health without leaving the control room.

GigaJet Pro connected to a lighting console via Ethernet


Upper-Stage/Flyhouse GigaJet Pro

To manage the lighting fixtures mounted above the stage, an Ethernet connection extends from the stage-floor GigaJet Pro to a third unit located in the flyhouse or on the lighting trusses. This GigaJet Pro controls the overhead equipment, distributing DMX universes to devices such as:

  • Flood lights for wide, even coverage.
  • Moving heads for automated, versatile lighting.
  • Strobes for high-energy flashing effects.
  • Other special effects units, including LED bars, spotlights, or additional truss-mounted fixtures.

Like its stage-floor counterpart, this unit features optically isolated DMX ports and supports RDM. It gathers telemetry from the ceiling-mounted devices—status updates, error reports, and configuration details—and sends this data back to the FOH via the fiber optic backbone. This ensures a unified monitoring and control experience across the entire lighting rig.

Key GigaJet Pro Features

The GigaJet Pro is purpose-built for the demands of live production environments. Drawing from its technical specifications, here are the standout features that make it a cornerstone of this system:

  • Compact Design: A 1U rack unit packing a 5-port gigabit Ethernet switch, an SFP fiber interface, and up to 8 optically isolated DMX ports, optimizing space without sacrificing capability.
  • Protocol Compatibility: Supports DMX512, RDM (ANSI E1.20), Art-Net I-IV, sACN, KiNET v1/v2, and RTTrPL (Blacktrax), ensuring it integrates seamlessly with diverse control setups.
  • Redundancy: Features dual-power inputs (110–250 VAC and IEEE 802.3af PoE) and dual IP addresses, providing failover options to keep the system running during power or network disruptions.
  • Signal Merging: Offers a smart merging engine with modes like HTP (Highest Takes Precedence), LTP (Latest Takes Precedence), AUTO, PRIORITY, BACKUP, and TRIGGER/X-FADE, allowing precise control over multiple input sources.
  • RDM Support: Functions as a 2-way RDM controller/responder, enabling remote monitoring, addressing, and troubleshooting of devices from the FOH.
  • Galvanic Isolation: Each DMX port is optically isolated, safeguarding against ground loops and electrical noise that could compromise performance.
  • Fast Startup: Boots in less than 3 seconds, minimizing setup delays and enabling rapid recovery after power cycles.
  • Fanless Design: Employs convection cooling for silent operation and reduced maintenance, ideal for noise-sensitive venues.
  • Trigger Inputs: Includes external triggers for actions like scene recall, blackout, or emergency cues, enhancing responsiveness in live scenarios.

These features collectively empower lighting professionals to build reliable, adaptable, and efficient control networks.

Redundant GigaJet Pro system with primary and backup consoles


Operational Flow

The system operates as a cohesive pipeline, ensuring smooth control and feedback:

  1. The FOH consoles (primary and backup) generate DMX universes using Art-Net or sACN.
  2. The FOH GigaJet Pro converts these Ethernet signals into a fiber optic feed and sends them to the stage.
  3. The stage-floor GigaJet Pro receives the fiber signal, distributes DMX to stage equipment, and collects RDM data, relaying it back to the FOH over fiber.
  4. An Ethernet link from the stage-floor unit connects to the flyhouse GigaJet Pro, which distributes DMX to overhead fixtures.
  5. The flyhouse unit gathers RDM responses from ceiling devices and routes them back to the FOH via the fiber backbone.

This workflow delivers key advantages:

  • Efficient Distribution: A single fiber link 🌐 carries multiple DMX universes, reducing cabling complexity.
  • Long-Distance Reach: Fiber supports spans up to 10 km, perfect for expansive venues.
  • Redundancy: Dual consoles and power options ensure continuity if a component fails.
  • Centralized Control: The GigaJet Pro’s web interface provides diagnostics and management from the FOH, streamlining operations.

Professional Benefits for Stage Deployments

This architecture offers tangible benefits for lighting technicians and designers:

  • Reliability: Optical isolation and redundant power/network options reduce the risk of downtime, critical for live events.
  • Scalability: Additional GigaJet Pro units can expand the system to cover side stages or extra zones, adapting to production growth.
  • Flexibility: Merging modes support intricate designs, from backup integration to smooth cue transitions.
  • Maintainability: RDM telemetry enables remote fixture checks and error resolution, cutting troubleshooting time.
  • Speed: A fast startup keeps load-in and load-out phases efficient, meeting tight production schedules.

FAQ

1. What makes the GigaJet Pro ideal for large-scale stage lighting systems? 

The GigaJet Pro excels with 8 optically isolated DMX ports, fiber optic support for long-distance data transmission, and redundant power and network options, ensuring reliability and scalability for massive live productions.

2. How does the GigaJet Pro ensure uninterrupted performance during a show?

It features a primary and backup console setup, dual power inputs (AC and PoE), and dual IP addresses, providing seamless failover if power or network issues arise.

3. Why is fiber optic support a big deal for stage lighting control?

Fiber optics transmit multiple DMX universes over a single cable up to 10 km, reducing clutter and maintaining signal quality across vast venues without interference.

4. What’s the weirdest thing the GigaJet Pro can do with RDM?

Using Remote Device Management (RDM), it can remotely tweak fixture settings—like dimmer curves or fan speeds—mid-show, all from the front of house, no ladder required!

5. Can the GigaJet Pro keep up with a chaotic multi-console setup?

Yes, it juggles DMX512, Art-Net, sACN, KiNET, and RTTrPL protocols at once, merging them with modes like HTP or TRIGGER/X-FADE for smooth chaos control.

6. How does the fanless design actually help in a live setting?

No fans mean zero noise and fewer moving parts to fail, making it a silent, dependable workhorse during quiet scenes or high-stakes performances.

7. What’s the trick to its lightning-fast startup time?

The GigaJet Pro boots in under 3 seconds thanks to optimized firmware and solid-state design, so you’re never left waiting when the house lights drop.

8. Could the GigaJet Pro survive a power surge backstage?

Its optically isolated ports and dual power inputs shield it from surges and electrical noise, keeping the show running even in messy power conditions.

GigaJet Pro Feature Breakdown

🔌 8 optically isolated DMX ports
Ensures clean signal transmission, free from electrical noise
When to use: Large venues with multiple lighting zones

🌐 Fiber optic support
Allows long-distance data transmission up to 10 km
When to use: Stadiums, arenas, or outdoor events

🔄 Redundancy
Dual power inputs and dual IP addresses for uninterrupted operation
When to use: Mission-critical shows where downtime is not an option

🤝 Protocol compatibility
Supports DMX512, RDM, Art-Net, sACN, KiNET, RTTrPL
When to use: Productions using diverse lighting equipment and control systems

🔀 Signal merging
Advanced merging modes for complex lighting designs
When to use: Shows with multiple lighting designers or backup systems

📡 RDM support
Full two-way RDM communication for remote device management
When to use: Quick troubleshooting and remote configuration

⚡ Galvanic isolation
Protects against ground loops and electrical interference
When to use: Venues with complex electrical setups or potential for interference

🚀 Fast startup
Boots in under 3 seconds for quick setup
When to use: Fast-paced events with tight turnaround times

🤫 Fanless design
Silent operation and reduced maintenance
When to use: Theaters, studios, or any noise-sensitive environment

🎚️ Trigger inputs
External triggers for scene recall, blackout, or emergency cues
When to use: Interactive installations or safety-critical applications

Conclusion

This triple GigaJet Pro setup provides a powerful, streamlined solution for modern stage lighting control. By harnessing a fiber optic backbone, it delivers multiple DMX universes, bi-directional RDM communication, and built-in redundancy—all within a clean, professional deployment. For stage lighting experts, this system offers the precision, adaptability, and insight needed to bring ambitious designs to life, all managed from the FOH with ease 💡

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