In a distributed network, you need to be able to connect multiple controllers together on the same universe. However, the display layout doesn’t always enable a simple daisy chain connection. This is where DMX splitters come in handy. They split a universe into 4 physical segments. Each segment still gets all 512 channels.
Up to now I have only used simple non isolate splitters.
In fact that are so easy to make I did even bother a Printed Circuit Board.
Old ‘Vero’ board DMX Spliter’
using a 26L31 chip mad things really easy for wiring.
I tend to use SMD for most of my designs these days.
New SMD Quad DMX Splitter
I finished a lay out using SMD and am pretty happy with the results expect to the following points:
- I still have a gazillion 75176 interface chips from when I over ordered last year.
- I need to purchase more SMD Electro Capacitors
- The most likely parts to blow are the input 75176, the 6N139, and the the 26L31.
So I decided to redo the design using all leaded components. this is the resultant layout.
New Leaded Quad DMX Splitter
This new design utilises some parts I bought in bulk.
I am still utilising a 3 pin header for the input DMX connector. I find this gives maximum flexibility in terms of final case mounting
6 March
A nice DHL man visited our house bearing gifts, the Quad DMX Splitter PCB has arrived.
Quad DMX Splitter PCB
And the final product.
Assembled Quad DMX Splitter