Comms Modules
The Comms modules for the Astra IP come in two versions. DMX-only or DMX with Ethernet and LumenRadio CRMX.
DMX Comms Module
The DMX Comms Module adds wired DMX512A to the Astra IP and has both 5-pin and RJ45 in/out ports that can be used for wired DMX connections.
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The wired DMX connection options are as follows:
5-pin XLR(M) In → 5-pin XLR (F) out
RJ45 In → RJ45 out
5-pin XLR(M) In → RJ45 out
RJ45 In → 5-pin XLR(F) out
Note
The DMX ports are passive so the DMX signal will pass to the output even when the fixture is powered off.
If internal DMX Termination is required, navigate to Settings → DMX Settings and toggle DMX Termination to ENABLED.
DMX Comms Plus Module
The Comms Plus module looks very similar to the basic DMX Comms module but adds Ethernet and CRMX to the input options.
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Note: The RJ45 ports will have the label "DMX/LAN" on the Comms Plus version.
The RJ45 ports can act as either DMX ports when in Wired DMX mode, or as a 2-port switch when Ethernet protocols are active in the Comms Select menu. Ethernet supports both Art-Net and sACN protocols.
When the RJ45 ports are active as Ethernet, the 2-port switch allows for easy daisy chaining of the Ethernet signal without having to home run each fixture to a switch.
The LumenRadio chip supports CRMX Classic, CRMX2 and CRMX Bluetooth.
Port Connections
Input Protocol | Port Status |
|---|---|
DMX | 5-pin and RJ45 accept and pass thru DMX512 |
sACN | RJ45 ports act as a 2-port network switch. 5-pin XLR ports are inactive. |
Art-Net | RJ45 ports act as a 2-port network switch. 5-pin XLR ports are inactive. |
CRMX | The wired ports are inactive |
Important
Do not mix wired connections. If in wired DMX mode, do not have the RJ45 jacks plugged into a network switch and vice versa.
Attaching the Comms Module
To attach the DMX Comms module to the Astra IP insert the connector into the Comms Port above the LCD Display.
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Then secure the module by tightening the two 2.5mm allen key screws. The screws must be secure to maintain the Comms Port IP rating.
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Caution
When the wired ports are in use the IP rating of the fixture changes to IP20. To maintain the IP65 rating the cover must be in place on the Comms Module.