8 Way DMX Splitter
Posted by JEC on November 25th, 2008
Haven’t had time to test it fully yet, but these boards arrived early this morning.
UPDATE: These work wonderfully well. I’m using two (one for each universe) in my display this year.
It’s an 8-way somewhat-isolated DMX splitter.
DMX in & through on XLR-5 jacks. DMX in section is fully isolated from the rest of the world.
8 RS-485 drivers in parallel with pinheader (.1″) outputs. These outputs are *not* isolated from each other, but each does contain a discrete driver chip. A proper opto-splitter design would have each output powered by it’s own DC power supply and isolated from its neighbors with an optocoupler. To get an isolated DC power supply, use a small DC-DC converter per channel or a small AC transformer + regulator per channel.
Expensive and complicated, but very safe.
I skipped the added isolation because my rig was all being powered from a single power supply and all gear was connected to a single AC outlet. Your mileage may vary, of course.
I’m using these to route my rooftop data lines, but ran about 20 extra boards in case anyone else was interested. $5 each, and I’ll send you the full schematic and parts list.
8 Way DMX Splitter
January 28th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Hey, these look interesting, can they be used for general dmx splitting purposes as well or just for pixel use? Also, what form of binding posts/etc are you using for the output on these? Lastly what is the estimated cost once populated for each splitter? Id be interested in at least 4 if any are still available, thanks, Mike
January 28th, 2009 at 5:37 pm
The boards will work with anything that speaks DMX, so the sky’s the limit.
Outputs are on .1″ headers. For Christmas, I just soldered my wires directly in to the holes, but it’s easy to add a Molex / C-Grid .1″ crimp connector + locking header if you’re so inclined.
I’ve got lots left. Price for a full kit of parts would be ~ $22 if memory serves. It’s a pretty economical design.
I’ve also got stacks of XLR-5 M and F PC mount jacks if you need any. $4 each.
JEC
February 17th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
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