Wireless DMX: Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: 9/28/07 (* indicates update).
This FAQ is for W-DMX Generation 3. Our previous W-DMX FAQ is still available.
- General Questions
- What is W-DMX?
- How is W-DMX different and better than W-LAN based systems?
- Is W-DMX compatible with other systems on the market?
- Is W-DMX built on Bluetooth? *
- Is W-DMX plug and play?
- Is W-DMX DMX512-A and RDM ready?
- Is W-DMX made for use outdoors?
- What is the difference between the Standard and Pro models?
- What is the difference between the indoor and outdoor units?
- Is W-DMX FCC approved? Does it comply with other regulations?
- Are these products UL listed?
- Is there a warranty?
- Are antennas included?*
- Are there indoor and outdoor versions of the antenna?
- Can I get the hardware engraved?
- Technical Questions
- Can W-DMX signal go through solid objects?
- Will other electronics and other W-LAN users interefere with W-DMX signals?
- What is the range of W-DMX?
- How many channels of DMX does W-DMX control?
- How many receivers is it possible to assign/universe to W-DMX in a DMX512-A or RDM installation?
- Can multiple W-DMX transmitters run side by side (to support more than one universe)?
- Do the transmitters and receivers have built-in power supplies?
- What are the specific differences between a booster, a repeater and a transceiver?
- Are power cords included?*
- Why is the plug not included on the power cord?
- When installing the plug, what do the colors of the cordest wires correspond to?
- What is the pin-out for the RJ-45 connectors?
- What is the average and maximum consumption of power?
- Is battery backup available?
- Do all units have battery backup, or just the outdoor versions?
- Operational Questions
- Can the antenna be mounted away from the transmitter or receiver?
- Which antenna should I use?
- Can I log in a receiver when the system is running?
- Can I log out a receiver when the system is running?
- How do you assign receiver(s) to a transmitter?
- How do I add (log in) a receiver?
- How do I remove (log out) out a single receiver?
- How do I log out all receivers?
- What do the status LEDs indicate?
- What does the fade button do (512 Micro only)?
- Will the receivers stay logged on the the transmitter if DMX is lost?
- How long will the units stay logged in to each other when power is cut?
- In an operational system, can I log on an additional receiver without disrupting DMX transmission to other receivers?
General Questions
W-DMX is a new wireless DMX system developed by Wireless Solution AB. It's a new company founded in Sweden that has an R&D department with much experience in wireless transmission. All of their engineers are from a world famous GSM manufacturer, and they have good relationships with both fixture/console manufacturers and lighting designers.
How is this different and better than W-LAN systems?
W-DMX has superior radio technology compared to W-LAN. Because of this W-DMX will be able to transmit a longer distance much more reliably.
W-DMX has talkback functions. Talkback will not work properly in a larger WLAN DMX installation with several W-LAN wireless fixtures.
W-DMX doesn't need any configuration for IP Address and Netmask like WLAN. W-DMX is "plug and play".
W-DMX is cheaper, smaller and possible to build inside of fixtures. W-DMX is prepared and ready for DMX 512A and RDM.
W-DMX is built for wireless transmission of DMX512, DMX512A or RDM, not like W-LAN solutions in which the DMX signal is converted to fit the standard W-LAN equipment.
With W-DMX there are 83 frequency channels. The W-DMX signal jumps about every millisecond between these 83 frequencies, avoiding channels that are heavily interfered. W-LAN is only looking for the "strongest" channel out of the 13 available to it.
W-DMX uses Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) and Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA). The W-LAN standard use fixed channels without hopping and therefore has a much bigger risk of interference.
An independent analysis of W-DMX and W-LAN.
Is W-DMX compatible with other systems on the market?
Today there are no industry standards for wireless transmission of DMX signals. Because of this there is no possibility to mix different brands of wireless DMX solutions in a system. You cannot use a Martin "Wireless DMX-512 - Pro Diversity" with Interactive Technologies "CueLink" even though they use a similar type of "physical radio transmission" standard. Because of this, no "wireless-DMX" brand today is compatible with another.
Is W-DMX built on Bluetooth?
No, it’s built on standard radio components with a GSM influenced radio system protocol. It does not have the range limitations of Bluetooth. Class 2 Bluetooth, commonly used in mobile devices, has a range of 10 meters. Class 3 Bluetooth which is primarily used in industrial applications is limited to 100 meters.
W-DMX doesn't need any configuration for IP Address and Netmask like WLAN. Other than installing a power plug on the power input cord, W-DMX is "plug and play".
Is W-DMX DMX512A and RDM ready?
Yes, when the standard is final we are ready for it! The transmitters are all RDM and ACN ready, and the firmware can also be updated using a separate data channel, which is also used for system set up.
Is W-DMX made for use outdoors?
Yes. Receivers, transceivers, repeaters and boosters are all available in outdoor versions, all with an IP65 rating.
What is the difference between the Standard and Pro models?
The pro models of the W-DMX have a built in UPS that will run them for up to 8 hours if power is interrupted. Pro models will also support ACN and Art-Net.
What are the differences between the indoor and outdoor models?
The outdoor units would use a different antenna. They are also powered by 6-15 volts DC as well as the built in universal power supply. And, of course, the outdoor units are rated IP65 weatherproof.
Is it FCC approved, and does it comply with other countries regulations?
Yes, W-DMX is FCC approved for the US. For additional compliance information, please see this Declaration of Conformity PDF document.
UL Listing is pending. Approval is expected in the third quarter of 2007.
All products from Wireless Solution Sweden AB are covered by 90 days warranty; the warranty can be extended to 15 months if the product is registered within 60 days of purchase.
Yes. 2dBi antennas are included with all transmitters and receivers.
Are there indoor and outdoor versions of the antenna?
Yes, there are indoor and outdoor versions of the antennas. They are identical model for model other than weather resistant connections on the outdoor antennas.
Can I get the Hardware Engraved?
Absolutely! We can engrave text and logos onto W-DMX black boxes. We do this for ourselves in our rentals and production department. Just ask us about it. It will cost an additional fee.
Technical Questions
Can W-DMX go through solid objects?
Yes, the W-DMX signal can penetrate walls, glass, metal and most objects. One thing that will interrupt the signal is people. Antennas should be above audiences to ensure reliable operation.
Will other electronics and other W-LAN users interfere with W-DMX signals?
No, it is not affected by cell phones, WiFi, W-LAN or any other devices.
With standard antennas the maximum distance is 1 km. As an option it's possible to connect other models of antennas to be used in longer distances or with specific need of higher gain.
| Antenna Sender Frequency | Antenna Receiver | Line of Site | Max Distance | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 dBi | 0 dBi | Yes | 3 km | 2.45 Ghz |
| 6 dBi | 6 dBi | Yes | 6 km | 2.45 Ghz |
| 6 dBi | 21 dBi | Yes | 30 km | 2.45 Ghz |
| 6 dBi | 6 dBi | No | 1 km | 2.45 Ghz |
How many channels of DMX does W-DMX control?
Each transmitter can control 512 channels (1 universe) of DMX, unlike some wireless systems which only have "half universe" or 256 channels.
How many receivers is it possible to assign per universe to the W-DMX in a DMX512, DMX512A, or RDM installation?
The only limit is the DMX512 standard itself with a maximum of 512 fixtures per universe. Most important of all, this is not done with broadcast techniques (described above). You will always get "talk back" information from the receivers like radio signal strength and much more on real time basis. If you are using a DMX512A or a RDM network you can still use 512 receivers.
Can multiple W-DMX transmitters run side by side (to support more than one universe)?
Yes, up to 8,192 receivers can be controlled from one system, and the standard configuration is with 512 DMX Channels and can easily be updated with 8,192 DMX channels (16 DMX-512 Universes).
Do the transmitters and receivers have built in power supplies?
All units have a built in universal power from 90-250V. Receivers are also available with an external 5-15V power supply. The pro models of the receiver and transmitter have built in UPS that will run them for up to 8 hours if power is interrupted.
What are the specific differences between a booster, a repeater and a transceiver?
A booster amplifies the signal from the transmitter or repeater. There
is an indoor and an outdoor version of the boosters. The indoor booster
is 500mW, the outdoor booster is 1000mW, which is the maximum allowed
by the FCC. The outdoor booster is also IP65 rated.
A repeater receives, processes, and retransmits the signal to extend the W-DMX
coverage.
A transceiver can be used as a transmitter, receiver, or a repeater. For that
reason it is often the component of choice for rental systems.
The linked PDF below illustrates some of the way these components can be used.
Examples of W-DMX Repeater Network Topologies
The power cords are included without an AC plug.
Why is the plug not included on the power cord?
Although W-DMX uses an auto-sensing power supply that wil work worldwide, there is not a worldwide standard for AC power plugs. Here in the USA you would need to install an Edison plug.
When installing the plug, what do the colors of the cordset wires correspond to?
The cordset uses the European wiring color standard. The following table shows proper wiring:
| Service | US | Europe | UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| 115v/240v 60hz | Black | Brown | Brown |
| Common | White | Blue | Blue |
| Ground | Green | Green/Yellow | Green/Yellow |
What is the pin-out for the RJ-45 connectors?
The RJ45 connector pin-out is the same for both receivers and transmitters.
What is the typical power consumption?
300 mA average, 320 mA max.
The pro models of the W-DMX have a built in UPS that will run them for up to 8 hours if power is interrupted.
Do all units have battery back-up, or just the outdoor versions?
Currently no models are available with battery backup. The first units to have this will be the outdoor models. It may be available on other models in the future.
Operational Questions
Can the antenna be mounted away from the transmitter or receiver?
Yes, there are indoor and outdoor cables available in lengths from .5m to 10m (1.6 to 32 feet). Due to signal loss on the antenna cables, a 2 dBi antenna cannot be used with an antenna cable.
For most indoor applications the 2dBi antennas that are provided work fine. Longer distances, outdoors, or unique applications most likely will require different antennas. Please contact us with your intended application questions.
Can I add (log in) a receiver when the system is running?
Yes, you can add a receiver to a system at any time during set-up or normal operation.
Can I remove (log out) a receiver when the system is running?
Yes, you can remove a receiver from a system at any time.
How do you assign receiver(s) to a transmitter?
See how do I log on to a receiver?
How do I add (log in) a receiver?
- Make sure the additional receiver is not plugged in.
- Make sure that the receiver is not logged to any other transmitter.
- Push the function button on the Transmitter momentarily.
- The Link LED will flash rapidly and switch to static lighted state when log in is successful.
- The Data LED will be lit when DMX data is being transmitted.
How do I remove (log out) a single receiver?
- Press and hold the Function button on the receiver for 5 seconds.
- The Link LED will go out. This indicates that the receiver is now unassigned and can be removed from thy system.
How do I remove (log out) all receivers?
- Press and hold the Function button on the receiver for 5 seconds.
- The Link LED will flash for 5-10 seconds and go out. This indicates that all receivers are now unassigned.
What do the status LEDs indicate?
The following tables list what the status LEDs indicate depending on its state.
| Light | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Link LED Status | |
On:  |
Receiver(s) are logged on to this transmitter |
Flashing:  |
Logging out all receivers that are logged in |
Rapid Flashing:  |
Logging in all free receivers that are in range |
| Data LED Status | |
| On: |
DMX data is being transmitted |
| Light | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Link LED Status | |
| Off | Not logged on to a transmitter (free) |
| On: |
Logged in to a transmitter |
| Rapid Flashing: |
Logging in to a transmitter |
| Data LED Status | |
| On: |
DMX data is being received |
What does the fade button do (512 Micro only)?
The fade button on the battery operated 512 Micro turns off the indicator LEDs to conserver battery power.
Will the receivers stay logged on to the transmitter if DMX is lost?
Yes, even if the DMX signal is interrupted the receiver(s) will remain logged in.
How long will the units stay logged in to each other when power is cut?
The log in information is stored in an EEPROM and will not be erased. No battery backup is needed. In theory the units stay logged in to each other forever.
In an operational system, can I log on an additional receiver without disrupting DMX transmission to other receivers?
This is not possible with the BlackBox unit. This will make the units logged-in revert to idle mode for 10 seconds and then after the new units are logged-in they will all start again together with the new unit. The future 19" version, scheduled for release in the 3rd quarter of 2006, will make it possible to add or remove units in real-time.
Definitions
Short for Advanced Control Network. ACN (or the ANSI BSR E1.17 standard) is a future standard for using Ethernet to send DMX data. ACN will be on top of Ethernet, in principle defining how the DMX signal is to be transmitted thru Ethernet and NOT BY W-LAN. It's possible to use WLAN as Carrier for Ethernet and then ACN on top of Ethernet. There is no problem to still have ACN/ART-NET in a fixture like Martin, HES and others, and still have our W-DMX system for wireless DMX.
Short for Adaptive Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum: Frequency hopping techniques, where in the transmitter intelligently jumps from subchannel to subchannel at a rapid pace, purposely avoiding busy subchannels.
Wireless Solutions is the only wireless DMX manufacturer that uses AFHSS. The U.S. military first started using such techniques because they are difficult to intentionally jam and, unless you know the frequency hopping sequence, practically impossible to listen in on. As it turns out, spread spectrum techniques are useful for civilian applications as well. Spread spectrum techniques have two main advantages. First, they are more resistant to interference than conventional systems. Second, they can be used to provide multiple access functionality.
This is currently a draft standard, designed to improve on some of the limitations of DMX512(1990). The key feature of DMX512-A is that it is backwards compatible. Other improvements include bi-directional communication facilities and error reporting.
Short for Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum . Frequency hopping techniques, where in the transmitter jumps from subchannel to subchannel at a rapid pace, were first used by the US military. The military started using such techniques because they are difficult to intentionally jam and, unless you know the frequency hopping sequence, practically impossible to listen in on. As it turns out, spread spectrum techniques are useful for civilian applications as well. Spread spectrum techniques have two main advantages. First, they are more resistant to interference than conventional systems. Second, they can be used to provide multiple access functionality.
Short for Global System for Mobile Communications, one of the leading digital cellular systems. GSM was first introduced in 1991. GSM service is available in more than 100 countries and has become the de facto standard in Europe and Asia.
Short for Remote Device Management. It is the name for the ANSI E1.20 standard in development at ESTA. RDM is intended to allow bi-directional communication over the DMX512 cable. This will occur on the standard twisted pair connected to pins 2 and 3. This same pair of wires is used to transmit data from the console to the dimmers or moving lamps.
Short for Time Division Multiple Access: A technique called Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) enables a part of the radio spectrum to be used "simultaneously" by having different devices use it at different time instants. This is typically done by allocating specific time slots to the various transmitters. Wireless DMX has adapted the Time Division Multiplexing standards from ATM communication links, designed to transport many simultaneous sessions in links handling massive amounts of data every second. The usage of TDMA fits very well in the DMX situation, where the protocol is required to send several channels in a near-simultaneous way.
Short for Wireless Local Area Network . Also referred to as LAWN. A type of local-area network that uses high-frequency radio waves rather than wires to communicate between equipment.
IP65 is a rating of how weather resistant an item is. IP65 means that the device is totally protected against dust and protected against low pressure jets of water from all directions.
What is the difference between Multicast and Point to Point?
Multi-cast is transmitting to multiple receivers simultaneously. Point to Point is a single path of data transmission.
Bluetooth is a short range wireless data transmission method. It is commonly found in devices like cellular phones to synchronize data between the phone and a computer, or to communicate through a wireless headset that also uses Bluetooth.