Usb to Dmx

[nigelwright7557]

this just looks like a wire to me, maybe sumthing hiding in one of the plugs, i dont know, but check it out http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB2DMX-JMS-US...1%7C240%3A1309

It requires a USB microcontroller and a DMX signal output converter.

[Jiggles]

That lead works right out the box.

[nigelwright7557]

yes.

There is a 8 pin DIP package hard wired in the XLR body.
The only problem with the compact design is there is no protection against power surges in the data or power lines.

daryll

WHy would there be a power surge ?
USB is regulated 5 volts.

[Daryll]

WHy would there be a power surge ?
USB is regulated 5 volts.

Correct , but what voltage do the lights work at.
A fault in the light electronics could sent a mains voltage spike down the DMX cable.

There is a very slim chance of this , but most USB/DMX converters have the protection built in.
In Enttec pro achieves this via opto isolators.

Daryll

[Daryll]

so basicly one of these could blow up my investment ?

Very slim chance damian , but the risk is there.
Bit like a fuse , you can have a piece of equipment for years and never blow a fuse , but its peace of mind.

Daryll

[nigelwright7557]

Correct , but what voltage do the lights work at.
A fault in the light electronics could sent a mains voltage spike down the DMX cable.

There is a very slim chance of this , but most USB/DMX converters have the protection built in.
In Enttec pro achieves this via opto isolators.

Daryll

Well that would horrify me as your not only risking the USB to DMX converter but your PC too !

I once connected a PC to an RS232 monitor and blew up the RS232 chip in the PC !

[Daryll]

Spot on nigel.
as has been said on these forums many times "you get what you pay for".
Dongles/converters with protection may be a bit more expensive at the start , but.............you know the rest.

Cheers

Daryll