Sunday, October 14, 2012

Some Facts About A DMX Splitter

By Alexandra Anderson


A very popular component used for the purpose of multiplying signals for many cables to utilize is a DMX splitter. This type of device can come either as a converter, a rail or a rack-mounted unit that can link cables into each other. This is also made use of for the preservation and duplication of digital signals to ultimately expand standard networks, paving the way for greater capacities.

The use of splitters will bring about control that is more centralized over several fixtures. This can be done with the use of programmable effects in theatrical lighting systems. It may also bring about an increase in networking possibilities. In addition, splitters will not only facilitate the division of signals, but they will also be boosting these through daisy chains and cable extensions.

This special device further extends network capacities simply by receiving some inputs from the daisy chains. Daisy chains are the linked trains of inline devices and cables. Once input has been received, the splitters will turn into the new output sources. Branching out of daisy chains can be resorted to when the need calls for it.

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.

For networks that are using multiple sources of power, signal transmission may be enhanced with the use of opto-isolator splitters. However, users need to exercise care when using these types as differences in ground voltages may bring about current crossovers and signal errors. Sometimes, this can even result to getting the equipment damaged.

For the operation of splitters, DMX cables will be essential. However, users will need to consider several factors prior to deciding on which to buy. Since cables come in varied types, owners or users will need to make considerations on which type will be most suitable for their splitter. Commonly opted by consumers though are the XLR cables and the standard types.

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 choosing some cables for the DMX splitter include inductance and also capacitance. Every cable possesses these characteristics though. Those that come with characteristic impedance of 100 up to 120 are known to perform sufficiently.




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