LSC Lighting NEXUS - Manual (Page 7)

NEXUS Functions & Features
Operator Manual V1.01
© 2011 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. Page 1
1 Functions and Features
1.1 OVERVIEW
DMX is the industry standard for the transmission of digital control signals between lighting
equipment. The DMX512 specification defines that it can convey 512 channels on a single
cable. This is defined as 1 DMX Universe.
Many setups and installations require multiple universes so rather than running multiple
cables (one for each universe), protocols have been developed that allow multiple universes
to be transmitted over a standard Ethernet network. Two such protocols are:
 ArtNet.
 sACN (developed by ESTA)
LSC Nexus devices are bi-directional Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN)/DMX interfaces that allow
you to connect your lighting controller(s) and lighting fixtures using standard network
infrastructure. The “Nexus 1” and “Nexus 5” interfaces are configured (and monitored) by
the NexLan software.
The Nexus units are connected to an ArtNet or sACN network via their Ethernet connections.
The input and output features of each model are listed below. A computer running the
NexLan software is also connected to the network to configure each Nexus. The computer
can also be used to monitor the network operation and to test lighting fixtures by sending
DMX signals to the network for testing purposes.
1.2 NEXUS 1
Nexus 1 is an Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN) / DMX, bidirectional interface with 1 Ethernet port
and 1 DMX port. It is powered via “PoE” (Power over Ethernet).
1.2.1 Features
 One 10/100mBit Ethernet MDIX (auto crossover) port with PoE (Power over Ethernet).
 One DMX port fitted with a female 5-pin connector. The port can be configured (via the
NexLan software) as an output or input. Use a male to male 5-pin adaptor for operation
as an input.
 Remote programming and monitoring via LSC’s NexLan software.
 DMX input options include:
o Normal
o Backup.
 DMX output options include:
o Normal.
o Merging of any 2 ArtNet or sACN universes in HTP / LTP or custom.
o Priority merging (back up mode).
o Merging with softpatch.
o DMX control of merging.
 Remote takeover of fixture parameters allowing Nexus to be used as standalone DMX
toolbox.
 Visualizer input supports programs such as WYSIWYG / ESP / Capture / and many
others.
1.3 NEXUS 5
Nexus 5 is an Ethernet (ArtNet or sACN) / DMX bi-directional interface with 2 Ethernet ports
and 5 DMX ports. It is mains powered.
1.3.1 Features
 Two MDIX (auto crossover) Ethernet ports with an internal 10/100 Mbit Ethernet switch.
 Five DMX ports each fitted with a female 5-pin connector. Each port can be individually
configured (via the NexLan software) as an output or input. Use a male to male 5-pin
adaptor for operation as an input.