Chauvet Switch DMX 55 DMX User Manual

DMX-55  
DMX Controller  
USER MANUAL  
Chauvet, 3000 N 29th Ct, Hollywood, FL 33020 U.S.A  
(800) 762-1084 (954) 929-1115  
FAX (954) 929-5560  
 
BEFORE YOU BEGIN  
What is included  
DMX-55 Controller  
DC 9~12V 500mA power adapter  
Manual with warranty card  
Unpacking Instructions  
Immediately upon receiving a fixture, carefully unpack the carton, check the contents to ensure that  
all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the shipper immediately and  
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself  
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture  
must be returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box  
and packing.  
Safety Instructions  
Please read these instructions carefully, which includes important  
information about the installation, usage and maintenance?  
Please keep this User Guide for future consultation. If you sell the unit to another user, be sure that  
they also receive this instruction booklet.  
Always make sure that you are connecting to the proper voltage and that the line voltage you are  
connecting to is not higher than that stated on decal or rear panel of the fixture.  
This product is intended for indoor use only!  
To prevent risk of fire or shock, do not expose fixture to rain or moisture. Make sure there are no  
flammable materials close to the unit while operating.  
The unit must be installed in a location with adequate ventilation, at least 50cm from adjacent  
surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are blocked.  
Always disconnect from power source before servicing or replacing lamp or fuse and be sure to  
replace with same lamp source.  
In the event of serious operating problem, stop using the unit immediately. Never try to repair the unit  
by yourself. Repairs carried out by unskilled people can lead to damage or malfunction. Please  
contact the nearest authorized technical assistance center. Always use the same type spare parts.  
Dont connect the device to a dimmer pack.  
Make sure power cord is never crimped or damaged.  
Never disconnect power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.  
Do not operate this device under 113° F ambient temperature conditions.  
Caution!  
There are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the housing or attempt  
any repairs yourself. In the unlikely event your unit may require service, please contact  
CHAUVET.  
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INTRODUCTION  
Features  
Universal DMX-512 Controller  
240 scene memory  
192 DMX channels of control  
Polarity selector  
Fog control button  
Strobe  
3 space 19" rack or table top mount  
Removable rubber edge guard  
Midi compatible  
Controls up to 12 intelligent lights  
30 banks of 8 scenes  
Beat-activation, tap sync, auto run  
6 sets of chases containing 240 scenes  
Assignable and reversible joystick  
Override button  
Reversible sliders  
Grab any fixture on the fly  
General Overview  
The DMX-55 is a universal intelligent lighting controller. It allows the control of 12 fixtures composed  
of 16 channels each and up to 240 programmable scenes. Six chase banks can contain up to 240  
steps composed of the saved scenes and in any order. Programs can be triggered by music, midi,  
automatically or manually.  
On the surface you will find various programming tools such as 8 universal channel sliders, a joystick  
and LED display indicators for easier navigation of controls and menu functions. You can control the  
pan and tilt of different intelligent lighting fixtures using the same joystick at the same time by means  
of a programmable joystick. This joystick allows the user to assign individual pan and tilt channels for  
every fixture. Integrated fog and strobe controller simplifies setup and eliminates multiple control  
sources.  
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Introduction  
Product Overview (front)  
17  
12  
10  
11  
1
2
21  
9
14 15  
3
13  
5
6
18  
23  
7
16  
4
19 20  
22  
24  
25  
26  
8
Item  
Button or Fader  
Function  
1
2
3
4
Scanner select buttons  
Scanner indicator LEDS  
Scene select buttons  
Channel faders  
Fixture selection  
Indicates the fixtures currently selected  
Universal bump buttons representing scene location for storage and selection  
For adjusting DMX values, Ch 1~8 can be adjusted immediately after pressing the  
respective scanner select button, Ch 9~16 after pressing the Page select button  
5
Page A Indicator LED  
Represents Ch 1~8 range selected  
6
7
Page B Indicator LED  
Page select button  
Represents Ch 9~16 range selected  
In manual mode, press to toggle between pages of control or to select both pages  
simultaneously. Both LEDS on will allow control of both lower and upper range channel.  
8
Program button  
Used to enter programming mode  
9
Music/Bank Copy button  
LCD display window  
Mode Indicator LEDS  
Bank Up button  
Used to activate Music mode and as the copy command during programming  
Status window displays pertinent operational data  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
Provides operating mode status, (manual, music or auto)  
Function button to traverse Scene/Steps in banks or chases  
Function button to traverse Scene/Steps in banks or chases  
Bank Down button  
Tap Display button  
This is a Tap-Sync during playback and during programming changes the DMX value  
displayed in the LCD panel to percentages  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
22  
23  
24  
25  
26  
Blackout button  
Midi/Rec button  
Auto/Del button  
Chase buttons  
Speed fader  
Sets the shutter or dimmer value of all fixtures to 0causing all light output to cease  
Activates MIDI external control and also used to confirm the record/save process  
Used to activate Auto mode and as the delete function key during programming  
Chase memory 1 ~ 6  
This will adjust the hold time of a scene or a step within a chase  
Also considered a cross-fade, sets the interval time between two scenes in a chase  
Built in Chauvet fog controller  
Fade-Time fader  
Fog button  
Strobe button  
Override button  
Joystick  
Built in Chauvet strobe controller  
To control pan and tilt movement  
Mode button  
FINE button  
Switches operating modes  
Sets joystick to control pan and tilt in 16 bit resolution (fixture must have this feature)  
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Connection Diagram (rear)  
34  
27  
28  
29  
35  
30  
31  
32  
33  
Item  
27  
28  
29  
30  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
Button or Fader  
MIDI input port  
Function  
For external triggering of Banks and Chases using a MIDI device  
May be used to correct signal polarity  
DMX control signal  
DMX polarity switch  
DMX output connector  
DC Input jack  
Main power feed  
Strobe connector  
ON/OFF power switch  
Fog connector  
Chauvet Mono Strobe ¼connector for built in strobe controller  
Turns the controller on and off  
Chauvet fog controller IEC connector  
Audio input feed for music triggering  
Used in data dumps between controllers  
Audio input jack  
DMX input connector  
LCD Display Table of Definitions  
Display Reference  
SN1  
Definition  
Scene 1  
BK1  
Bank 1  
CHASE1  
Chase 1 is activated  
STEP 009  
DATA 184  
SP :1M54s  
TP:4.25s  
ASS 04 05  
RES 10 13  
Step # 9 of a chase  
DMX Value (000-255)  
The current speed is 1 minute 54 seconds  
Sampled time between the last two taps  
Assign DMX channels 4 and 5  
Reverse DMX channels 10 and 13  
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Introduction  
Common Terms  
The following are common terms used in intelligent light programming.  
.
.
Blackout is a state by where all lighting fixtures light output are set to 0 or off, usually on a temporary  
basis.  
DMX-512 is an industry standard digital communication protocol used in entertainment lighting  
equipment. For more information read Sections DMX Primerand DMX Control Modein the  
Appendix.  
.
.
Fixture refers to your lighting instrument or other device such as a fogger or dimmer of which you can  
control.  
Programs are a bunch of scenes stacked one after another. It can be programmed as either a single  
scene or multiple scenes in sequence.  
.
.
.
Scenes are static lighting states.  
Sliders also known as faders.  
Chases can also be called programs. A chase consists of a bunch of scenes stacked one after  
another.  
.
.
.
Scanner refers to a lighting instrument with a pan and tilt mirror; however, in the ILS-CON controller it  
can be used to control any DMX-512 compatible device as a generic fixture.  
MIDI is a standard for representing musical information in a digital format. A MIDI input would provide  
external triggering of scenes using midi device such as a midi keyboard.  
Stand Alone refers to a fixtures ability to function independently of an external controller and usually  
in sync to music, due to a built in microphone.  
.
.
.
Fade slider is used to adjust the time between scenes within a chase.  
Speed slider affects the amount of time a scene will hold its state. It is also considered a wait time.  
Shutter is a mechanical device in the lighting fixture that allows you to block the lights path. It is often  
used to lessen the intensity of the light output and to strobe.  
.
.
Patching refers to the process of assigning fixtures a DMX channel or.  
Playbacks can be either scenes or chases that are directly called to execution by user action. A  
playback can also be considered program memory that can be recalled during a show or running  
mode.  
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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS  
Setup  
SETTING UP THE SYSTEM  
1) Place the DMX-55 on a leveled surface. Note! The DMX-55 can also be rack mounted,  
occupying 3U spaces by removing the outer rubber edge guard.  
2) Plug the AC to DC power supply to the system back panel and to the mains outlet.  
3) Plug in your DMX cable(s) to your intelligent lighting as described in the fixtures respective  
manual. For a quick Primer on DMX see the DMX Primersection in the Appendix of this  
manual.  
4) Plug in a compatible Chauvet Fogger to the AC Fog Machine Remote Controller connector.  
5) Plug in any Chauvet MONO strobes in a daisy like fashion using a ¼mono phone cable.  
FIXTURE PATCH  
The DMX-55 is programmed to control 16 channels of DMX per fixture, therefore the fixtures you wish  
to control with the corresponding SCANNERbuttons on the unit, must be spaced 16 channels apart.  
FIXTURE OR DEFAULT DMX STARTING  
SCANNER # ADDRESS  
DIPSWITCH SETTINGS  
SWITCH TO THE ON POSITION”  
1
1
1
2
17  
1,5  
3
33  
1,6  
4
5
49  
65  
1,5,6  
1,7  
6
7
8
9
10  
11  
12  
81  
97  
1,5,7  
1,6,7  
1,5,6,7  
1,8  
1,5,8  
1,6,8  
1,5,6,8  
113  
129  
145  
161  
177  
Please refer to your individual fixtures manual for DMX addressing instructions. The table above  
refers to a standard 9 dipswitch binary configurable device.  
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Operating Instructions  
JOYSTICK SETUP  
Because not all intelligent lighting fixtures are alike or share the same control attributes, the DMX-55  
allows the user to assign the joystick the correct pan and tilt channel for every fixture.  
Action  
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes  
blinks.  
2) Hold the MODE button and press FINE.  
The Reverse LED will light.  
You will need to repeat this process to enter the  
Assign Joystick Function.  
3) Hold the MODE button again and press  
FINE. The Assign LED will light.  
4) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
select either Pan or Tilt.  
5) Use the TAP/Display button to switch  
between the first 8 available channels  
(8CH) and the second 8 (16CH).  
There are 16 available DMX channels but only 8 can  
be selected at a time by using the SCENES buttons.  
The TAP/Display acts like a page button allowing you  
to have access to the lower 8 channels (8CH) and the  
top 8 (16CH).  
6) Press the button corresponding to the  
SCANNER button you wish to assign.  
7) While holding the MODE button press  
the scene number that corresponds to  
the slider which controls the movement.  
Example: If pan is controlled by slider number 4,  
press and hold Mode button while pressing Scenes  
button # 4.  
8) Repeat steps 4 through 7 as necessary.  
9) To exit, hold the MODE button and  
press FINE.  
Make sure Assign and Reverse LEDs are off.  
REVERSE DMX CHANNEL AND JOYSTICK  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Hold the MODE button and press FINE.  
The Reverse LED will light.  
If the Reverse LED light does not light up repeat the  
process until it does.  
3) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
select either Pan or Tilt. The  
corresponding LED will light.  
4) Use the TAP/Display button to switch  
between the first 8 available channels  
(8CH) and the second 8 (16CH).  
5) Press the button corresponding to the  
SCANNER button you wish to assign.  
6) Find the slider or you wish to reverse  
DMX output on.  
7) While holding the MODE button, press  
the scene number that corresponds to  
the slider you wish to reverse.  
You may reverse a maximum of 48 channels for 12  
scanners.  
8) Repeat steps 4 through 7 as necessary.  
9) To exit, hold the MODE button and  
press FINE.  
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Operating Instructions  
DELETING A SCANNERS DMX CHANNEL SETTINGS  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Hold the MODE button and press FINE.  
The Reverse LED will light.  
Assign mode will also work in this case.  
3) Tap the Scanner button delete settings.  
4) Press the MODE and AUTO/Del  
buttons at the same time. All LEDs will  
flash three times to confirm operation.  
CLEAR ALL SCANNERS DMX CHANNELS  
Action   
1) Turn the power off.  
Notes   
2) Press and hold the MODE and  
AUTO/Del buttons at the same time.  
Assign mode will also work in this case.  
3) Turn the power back on. All LEDs will  
flash briefly to confirm operation.  
DISPLAY PAN/TILT DMX CHANNELS  
Action   
Notes   
1) Press the FINE and MODE buttons at  
the same time putting the controller into  
Assign mode.  
Press the FINE and MODE buttons once  
more to change to Reverse mode.  
2) Press the Scanner button that you wish  
to display Pan and Tilt DMX values for.  
FADE TIME SETTINGS  
Action   
Notes   
1) With power on the unit off, press the  
MODE and TAP/Display buttons at the  
same time.  
2) Apply power to the unit while holding  
the buttons pressed above.  
3) Once unit is on, tap the TAP/Display  
button to change between Fade Time  
and Assign Fade Time.  
ALL  
FD  
CH  
TIME  
Press the MODE and TAP/Display  
buttons at the same time to store your  
setting into memory.  
or  
ONLY  
FD  
X/Y  
TIME  
4) You can also exit without saving by  
pressing the Blackout button.  
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Operating Instructions  
SCENE PROGRAMMING  
ENTERING PROGRAMMING MODE  
1) Press the Program button until the LED blinks.  
CREATE A SCENE  
A scene is a static lighting state. The DMX-55 can save 240 scenes.  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
Deselect Blackout if LED is lit.  
blinks.  
2) Position SPEED and FADE TIME  
sliders all the way down.  
3) Select the SCANNERS you wish to  
You can select more than one fixture.  
include in your scene.  
4) Compose a look by moving the sliders  
and joystick.  
You can access channels 9~16 by pressing the Page  
Select button. This is necessary for fixtures that use  
more than 8 channels of control.  
5) Choose BANK.  
There are 8 scenes available in every bank.  
6) Tap MIDI/Rec button.  
7) Select a SCENES button to store.  
-> All LEDs will flash three times to confirm. The  
LED display will no indicate the Scene number and  
Bank number used.  
8) Repeat steps 3 through 7 as necessary.  
9) To exit program mode, hold the MODE  
button and press FINE.  
Shortcut: {Programming Fixtures} Press [Save] Select [Button 1~24] to store to memory  
SCENE EDIT  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
Deselect Blackout if LED is lit.  
blinks.  
2) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
change banks.  
3) Tap the scene to edit within the bank.  
Remember this scene number!  
4) Follow steps 2 through 4 from Create a  
Scene”  
5) Tap MIDI/Rec button.  
6) Tap the same scene number originally  
selected on step 3.  
Scene edit works by overriding a scene.  
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Operating Instructions  
COPY SCANNER SETTINGS  
This operation allows the user to copy the programming state of one scanner to another. This is  
especially useful when both scanners are of the same type.  
Action   
1) Hold and maintain the Scanner button  
Notes   
to copy.  
2) Tap another Scanner button to copy  
settings into.  
COPY SCENE  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
change banks.  
3) Tap the scene to copy within the bank.  
4) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
change to another bank if desired.  
5) Tap MIDI/Rec button.  
6) Tap the SCENES button you wish to  
copy the scene to.  
DELETE SCENE  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
change banks.  
3) Tap the scene to delete.  
4) Press and hold the Auto/Del button and All DMX channels for the deleted scene will be set to  
tap the scene button you wish to delete.  
0.  
DELETE ALL SCENES  
Action   
1) Power off the controller.  
Notes   
2) Press and hold the Program and BANK  
buttons while turning the power back  
on.  
COPY BANK  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
select the bank to copy.  
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Operating Instructions  
3) Tap the MIDI/Rec button.  
4) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
select the bank to copy to.  
5) Tap the Music/Bankcopy button to  
All LEDs wil flash three times to confirm process.  
execute the copy.  
6) To exit programming mode press the  
Program button until the LED turns off.  
Chase Programming  
A chase is created by using previously created scenes. Scenes become steps in a chase and can be  
arranged in any order you choose. It is highly recommended that prior to programming chases for the  
first time; you delete all chases from memory. See Delete All Chasesfor instructions.  
CREATE A CHASE  
A Chase can contain 240 scenes as steps. The term steps and scenes are used interchangeably.  
Action   
7) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
8) Tap the Chase button you wish to  
program.  
9) Change BANK if necessary to locate a  
scene.  
10) Select the scene to insert.  
11) Tap the MIDI/Rec button to store.  
12) Repeat steps 3 ~ 5 to add additional  
steps in the chase.  
INSERTING A BANK OF SCENES INTO A CHASE  
Action   
1) Pres the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Tap the Chase button you wish to  
program.  
3) Use BANK and BANK buttons to  
select the bank of scenes to copy.  
4) Tap the Music/Bankcopy button to  
execute the copy.  
5) Tap the MIDI/Rec copy button to  
confirm, all LEDs will flash three times.  
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Operating Instructions  
ADD A STEP  
Action   
Notes   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
blinks.  
2) Press the corresponding button to the  
chase you wish to add a step to.  
3) Press the TAP/Display button so that  
the LCD display shows the current step.  
4) Use the BANK and BANK buttons  
to scroll to the step you wish to add a  
step after.  
5) Press the MIDI/REC button. The LCD  
will display one step number higher than  
previous.  
6) Tap the TAP/Display button again. The  
LCD will now display the current chase,  
scene and bank. Create a desired  
scene and record it as a new step or  
select a previously programmed scene  
to add to the chase.  
7) Press the MIDI/REC button again. All  
LEDs will flash three times to confirm  
the save.  
DELETE A STEP  
Action   
1) Press the Program button until the LED  
Notes   
blinks.  
2) Select the chase that contains the step  
you want to delete.  
3) Press the TAP/Display button to  
display the current step number.  
4) Use the BANK and BANK buttons  
to scroll to the step you wish to delete.  
5) Tap the AUTO/Del button to delete the  
step. All LEDs will flash three times to  
confirm the deletion process.  
DELETE A CHASE  
Action   
1) Press and hold the Chase button you  
Notes   
want to delete.  
2) Then, press and hold the AUTO/Del  
button until all LEDs flash three times.  
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Operating Instructions  
DELETE ALL CHASES  
Action   
Notes   
1) With the power off, press and hold the  
AUTO/Del and BANK buttons.  
2) Turn controller back on and all chases  
will be cleared.  
Playback (Scenes)  
MANUAL RUN SCENE  
When power is first turned ON, the controller will be in manual scene mode.  
Action   
1) Make sure neither Music nor Auto  
Notes   
If by chance you are in programming mode you can  
also press and hold the PROGRAM button until the  
Program LED goes off.  
LEDs are on.  
2) Select the program BANK that stores  
the scene you want to run manually by  
using the BANK UP/DOWN.  
3) Press the SCENE button to run.  
RUNNING IN SOUND-MODE  
Action   
1) Press the Music/Bankcopy button until  
Notes   
In the Sound mode, programs will be triggered by the  
sound using its built-in microphone. All scenes in a  
Bank will chase.  
the Music LED turns on.  
2) Change BANK programs by using  
BANK UP/DOWN buttons if necessary.  
3) Press the Music/Bankcopy to exit.  
RUNNING IN AUTO-MODE  
This mode allows you to run a bank of programmed scenes in sequence.  
Action   
1) Press the AUTO/Del button until the  
Notes   
In the Auto mode, programs will be triggered by  
controllers fade and speed time as set on the faders.  
All scenes in a Bank will chase.  
Auto LED turns on.  
2) Change BANK programs by using  
BANK UP/DOWN buttons if necessary.  
3) You can adjust the time between steps  
by moving the SPEED fader and the  
duration of the step by moving the  
FADE TIME fader.  
CAUTION! The fade setting should never be slower  
than the speed setting or the scene will never  
complete execution.  
4) Use the TAP/Display button to set the  
speed instead. The time between two  
sequential taps sets the speed.  
These settings will stay until the speed slider is  
moved.  
5) Press the AUTO/Del button to exit  
mode.  
BLACKOUT  
The Blackout button brings all lighting output to 0 or off.  
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Operating Instructions  
Playback (Chases)  
MANUAL RUN CHASES  
This function allows the user to manually step through each individual step in a chase.  
Action   
1) When the power is first turned on the  
Notes   
controller enters manual mode  
automatically.  
2) Start a chase by pressing any one of  
the Chase buttons.  
3) Press the Chase button again to  
deselect.  
AUTO RUN CHASES  
Action   
1) Press the AUTO/Del button to activate  
Notes   
CAUTION! The fade setting should never be slower  
than the speed setting or the scene will never  
complete execution.  
Auto mode. The Auto LED should light.  
2) Start a chase by pressing any one of  
the Chase buttons.  
3) Pressing the Chase button again will  
deselect it.  
4) Adjust the SPEED and FADE faders to  
your liking.  
MUSIC RUN CHASES  
Action   
1) Press the MUSIC/Bankcopy button to  
Notes   
activate music mode.  
2) Start a chase by pressing any one of  
the Chase buttons. The chase will  
instantly respond to the music.  
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Operating Instructions  
Midi Operation  
The controller will only respond to MIDI commands on the MIDI channel which it is set to full stop. All  
MIDI control is performed using Note on commands. All other MIDI instructions are ignored. To stop a  
chase, send the blackout on note.  
Action   
1) Press and hold the MIDI/REC button for  
Notes   
about 3 seconds.  
2) Select the MIDI control channel (1~16)  
This is the Channel that the controller will receive  
via the BANK UP/DOWN buttons to set. MIDI note commands.  
3) Press and hold the MIDI/REC button for  
3 seconds to save settings.  
4) To release MIDI control, press any other  
button except the BANK buttons during  
step 2.  
MIDI NOTE  
00 to 07  
08 to 15  
16 to 23  
24 to 31  
32 to 39  
40 to 47  
48 to 55  
56 to 63  
64 to 71  
72 to 79  
80 to 87  
88 to 95  
96 to 103  
104 to 111  
112 to 119  
120  
FUNCTION (TURN ON/OFF)  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 1  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 2  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 3  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 4  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 5  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 6  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 7  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 8  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 9  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 10  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 11  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 12  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 13  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 14  
Scenes 1~8 in BANK 15  
Chase 1  
121  
Chase 2  
122  
Chase 3  
123  
Chase 4  
124  
Chase 5  
125  
Chase 6  
126  
BLACKOUT  
Data Transfer  
It is possible to transfer the programs stored in one DMX-55 controller to another. Connect from the  
DMX output of the programmed controller to the DMX input of the other.  
Action   
1) Source unit: Turn unit Off, press and  
Notes   
The display should show TRANSMIT, this indicates it  
is ready to transmit data.  
hold SCANNER buttons 2, 3 and  
SCENE button 1 then turn unit back On.  
2) Destination unit: Turn unit Off, press  
and hold SCANNER buttons 8, 9 and  
SCENE button 2 then turn unit back On.  
The display should show RECEIVE, this indicates it is  
ready to receive data transmission.  
3) Both units are now ready to transmit  
and receive. Press SCENE buttons 7 &  
8 simultaneously on Source unit to  
begin transmission.  
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APPENDIX  
DMX Primer  
There are 512 channels in a DMX-512 connection. Channels may be assigned in any manner. A  
fixture capable of receiving DMX 512 will require one or a number of sequential channels. The user  
must assign a starting address on the fixture that indicates the first channel reserved in the controller.  
There are many different types of DMX controllable fixtures and they all may vary in the total number  
of channels required. Choosing a start address should be planned in advance. Channels should  
never overlap. If they do, this will result in erratic operation of the fixtures whose starting address is  
set incorrectly. You can however, control multiple fixtures of the same type using the same starting  
address as long as the intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the  
fixtures will be slaved together and all respond exactly the same.  
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a serial Daisy Chain. A Daisy Chain connection is  
where the DATA OUT of one fixture connects to the DATA IN of the next fixture. The order in which  
the fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how a controller communicates to  
each fixture. Use an order that provides for the easiest and most direct cabling. Connect fixtures  
using shielded two conductor twisted pair cable with three pin XLR male to female connectors. The  
shield connection is pin 1, while pin 2 is Data Negative (S-) and pin 3 is Data positive (S+). CHAUVET  
carries 3-pin XLR DMX compliant cables, DMX-10 (33), DMX-4.5 (15) and DMX-1.5 (5)  
FIXTURE LINKING  
Figure 1 - DMX connector configuration  
Resistance 120  
ohm 1/4w between  
pin 2 (DMX -) and  
1
3
2
pin 3 (DMX +) of  
the last fixture.  
COMMON  
DMX +  
1
1
3
INPUT  
OUTPUT  
3
Termination reduces signal errors and to  
avoid signal transmission problems and  
interference, it is always advisable to connect  
a DMX signal terminator.  
2
2
DMX -  
Note!  
If you use a controller with a 5 pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5  
pin to 3 pin adapter. Chauvet Model No: DMX5M.  
The chart below details a proper cable conversion:  
3 PIN TO 5 PIN CONVERSION CHART  
CONDUCTOR  
3 Pin Female (output)  
5 Pin Male (Input)  
Pin 1  
GROUND/SHIELD  
DATA ( - )SIGNAL  
DATA ( + ) SIGNAL  
DO NOT USE  
Pin 1  
Pin 2  
Pin 3  
Pin 2  
Pin 3  
Do not use  
Do not use  
DO NOT USE  
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Appendix  
Maintenance  
To maintain optimum performance and minimize wear fixtures should be cleaned frequently. Usage  
and environment are contributing factors in determining frequency. As a general rule, fixtures should  
be cleaned at least twice a month. Dust build up reduces light output performance and can cause  
overheating. This can lead to reduced lamp life and increased mechanical wear. Be sure to power off  
fixture before conducting maintenance.  
Unplug fixture from power. Use a vacuum or air compressor and a soft brush to remove dust  
collected on external vents and internal components. Clean all glass when the fixture is cold with a  
mild solution of glass cleaner or Isopropyl Alcohol and a soft lint free cotton cloth or lens tissue. Apply  
solution to the cloth or tissue and drag dirt and grime to the outside of the lens. Gently polish optical  
surfaces until they are free of haze and lint. Do not to touch the lamp glass when cleaning fixture. Oil  
and dirt can cause damage and premature aging of the lamp. In the event that the lamp is touched or  
becomes dirty, clean the lamps with an alcohol wipe.  
The cleaning of internal and external optical lenses and/or mirrors must be carried out periodically to  
optimize light output. Cleaning frequency depends on the environment in which the fixture operates:  
damp, smoky or particularly dirty surrounding can cause greater accumulation of dirt on the units  
optics. Clean with soft cloth using normal glass cleaning fluid. - Always dry the parts carefully. - Clean  
the external optics at least every 20 days. Clean the internal optics at least every 30/60 days.  
Returns Procedure  
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.  
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Merchandise Authorization Number (RA #). Products  
returned without an RA # will be refused. Call CHAUVET and request RA # prior to shipping the  
fixture. Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause  
for the return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate  
packaging is the customers responsibility. CHAUVET reserves the right to use its own discretion to  
repair or replace product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe  
method to use.  
Claims  
Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be  
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise. It is the customer's responsibility to notify and  
submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is damaged due to shipping. Any other claim  
for items such as missing component/part, damage not related to shipping, and concealed damage,  
must be made within seven (7) days of receiving merchandise.  
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Appendix  
General Troubleshooting  
Applies to  
Foggers  
& Snow  
Dimmers  
& Chaser  
Symptom  
Solution(s)  
Lights  
Controllers  
Auto shut off  
Check fan thermal switch reset  
Beam is very dim or not Clean optical system or replace lamp  
bright  
Check 220/110v switch for proper setting  
Breaker/Fuse keeps  
blowing  
Check total load placed on device  
Chase is too slow  
Check users manual for speed adjustment  
Device has no power  
Check for power on Mains.  
Check devices fuse. (internal and/or external)  
Fixture is not  
responding  
Check DMX Dip switch settings for correct addressing  
Check DMX cables  
Check polarity switch settings  
Fixture is on but there  
is no movement to the  
audio  
Make sure you have the correct audio mode on the control  
switches. If audio provided via ¼jack, make sure a live  
audio signal exists  
Adjust sound sensitivity knob  
Lamps cuts off  
sporadically  
Possible bad lamp or fixture is overheating.  
Lamp may be at end of its life.  
Light will not come on  
after power failure  
Some discharge lamps require a cooling off period before  
the electronics in the fixture can kick start it again, wait 5 to  
10 minutes before powering up  
Loss of signal  
Use only DMX cables  
Install terminator  
Note: Keep DMX cables separated from power cables or  
black lights.  
Moves slow  
No flash  
Check 220/110v switch for proper setting  
Re-install bulb, may have shifted in shipping  
No laser output  
Bounce mirror motor may have shifted during shipping,  
readjust  
No light output  
Check slip ring & brushes for contact  
Install bulb  
Call service technician  
Relay will not work  
Check reset switch  
Check cable connections  
Remote does not work  
Stand alone mode  
Make sure connector is firmly connected to device  
All Chauvet lighting fixtures featuring stand-alone functions  
do not require additional settings, simply power the fixture  
and it will automatically enter into this mode  
DMX-55 User Manual  
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Appendix  
Technical Specifications  
WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS  
Length......................................................................................................................514 mm (20.25 in)  
Width..............................................................................................................................89 mm (3.5 in)  
Height ........................................................................................................................171 mm (6.75 in)  
Weight............................................................................................................................ 2.7 Kg (6 lbs)  
POWER  
Operating Range..............................................................................................DC 9V-12V 500mA min  
Adapter ...................................................................................................................................Provided  
THERMAL  
Maximum ambient temperature.......................................................................................45°C (113° F)  
CONTROL & PROGRAMMING  
Data input ............................................................................................. locking 3-pin XLR male socket  
Data output ...................................................................................2 x locking 3-pin XLR female socket  
Data pin configuration ............................................................................pin 1 shield, pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)  
Protocols.....................................................................................................................DMX-512 USITT  
ORDERING INFORMATION  
DMX-55 DMX Controller...........................................................................................................DMX-55  
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY  
We declare that our products (lighting equipments) comply with the following specification and bears  
CE mark in accordance with the provision of the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive  
89/336/EEC.  
.................................................................EN55014-1: 1993, EN61000-3-2: 1995, EN61000-3-3:1995  
......................................................................................................... EN55014-2: 1997 CATEGORY II  
..............................................................EN61000-4-2: 1995, EN61000-4-3: 1995, EN61000-4-4:1995  
...........................................................EN61000-4-5: 1995, EN61000-4-6: 1995, EN61000-4-11: 1994  
Harmonized Standard ...............................................................................................EN60598-1: 1993  
Safety of household and similar electrical appliances Part 1: General requirements  
Following the provisions of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and 93/68/EEC.  
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY  
We declare that our products (remote controller) comply with the following specification and bears CE  
mark in accordance with the provision of the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive  
89/336/EEC.  
.................................................................................................................................... EN55015: 1993  
.................................................................................................................................EN50082-1: 1997  
..............................................................................................................................EN61000-3-2: 1995  
..............................................................................................................................EN61000-3-3: 1995  
DMX-55 User Manual  
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