#dmx-frequently-asked-questions

Professional ArtNet switch with multiple Ethernet ports showing active data transmission

ArtNet Switch: Build a Reliable Network Backbone for Your Lighting System

In lighting design, beautiful results depend on invisible infrastructure. Behind every stable ArtNet-controlled show or façade lies one critical component: the switch. A dedicated ArtNet switch is more than just a networking tool - it’s the backbone of your lighting data distribution.

While many installations begin with generic IT switches, large-scale or latency-sensitive lighting systems benefit enormously from equipment designed specifically for real-time control protocols like ArtNet and sACN.

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Theater lighting system with combined DMX and DALI protocols in operation

DMX-DALI Gateway: Bridging Two Lighting Control Worlds

Lighting control in architectural and entertainment environments often involves two dominant but very different protocols: DMX512 and DALI. While DMX is preferred for dynamic, fast-changing effects, DALI excels in commercial and architectural settings where smooth dimming, status feedback, and group control are essential.

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Concert arena with complex lighting installation controlled through fiber DMX network

How to Use DMX over Fiber for Reliable, Long-Distance Lighting Control

In modern architectural and stage lighting installations, where long-distance signal transmission and immunity to interference are critical, fiber-optic lines provide a powerful alternative to traditional copper-based DMX wiring. Sundrax offers dedicated solutions that enable stable and scalable DMX over fiber in real-world applications.

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Incorrect DMX cable connection causing signal issues


Seven Mistakes When Connecting DMX Systems 🌟

MX systems are widely used in stage lighting to control lighting devices with precision. However, when setting up these systems, mistakes are often made that can cause malfunctions or even equipment failure. In this article, we’ll explore the seven most common mistakes when connecting DMX systems and share practical tips on how to avoid them.

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Stage lighting setup with DMX controllers and galvanic isolation modules


Galvanic Isolation in DMX Networks — Equipment Protection and Signal Stability | Sundrax 🛡️

In professional DMX installations, dozens or even hundreds of luminaires, controllers, splitters, and amplifiers are connected in a shared network through which the signal is transmitted. But what happens if a high-voltage surge ⚡️, for example, due to a short circuit, connection error, or even during a thunderstorm, enters one of the sections? Without galvanic isolation, such failures can damage or destroy all equipment across the network.

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Comparison chart of DMX, ArtNet, and sACN protocols for lighting

DMX vs ArtNet vs sACN: Which Protocol to Choose for Your Installation?

Lighting today is far more than just lamps—it encompasses complex digital systems. To control lighting fixtures, various communication protocols are employed. Using Sundrax equipment as a reference, we will examine three popular options: DMX512, ArtNet, and sACN. Each protocol has distinct features, advantages, and limitations. Which is best suited for your project? Let’s explore with a Sundrax engineer.

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