DMX Accessories and 3D Lights

DMX accessories and 3D effect lights for stage and venue lighting

A show rig does not end at the fixture. What makes a venue work is the gear around it: the DMX controller everything is run from, the DMX connectors that chain the line together and the effect lights that set the mood. In this category we bring together the DMX accessories and two products with a character of their own: the 3D effect floor for the dance floor and the ultraviolet black light bars and spots.

If what you need is to understand the DMX512 protocol - addresses, channels and how units are chained together - that is explained in the DMX PRO LED spotlights category. Here we go straight to the equipment itself.

DMX controllers: what to look at before choosing

The controller is the brain of the rig and it is worth choosing by capacity, not by size. Look at three things:

• Number of channels it handles: this defines how many units and how many functions you can control at once. Each fixture takes up several channels, so allow margin for expansion.
• Storable scenes and sequences: this is what lets you prepare looks in advance and fire them with one button during the event, instead of pushing faders live.
• Outputs and connectivity: how many outputs it has and how they feed the line, or whether you prefer to work from a computer with an interface and software.

For a fixed venue with few units, a compact controller with stored scenes is more than enough. For touring events with a lot of fixtures, the channel count and the speed of reassigning them come first.

DMX connectors and cabling

The line is chained together with XLR cable, and the reliability of the rig depends more on the connectors than on anything else. A DMX connector in poor condition or a cable of insufficient cross-section causes intermittent dropouts and strange behaviour halfway through a show. It is the accessory that gets handled most, so it is worth carrying spares.

3D effect floor for the dance floor

The 3D effect floor is an LED panel with a mirror that generates endless reflections and creates a real sense of depth underfoot. It works very well as a disco dance floor and in areas meant for taking photos: it does not light the room, it turns it into a set. Put it where people stop, not in walkways.

Black light and ultraviolet fixtures

Black light makes fluorescent pigments glow against a dark background. It is the tool of themed parties, set design and decoration: paint, fabrics, vinyls or wristbands come alive and the rest of the room disappears. The black light bar is the option for washing a wall or a bar evenly; the ultraviolet spot concentrates the effect on one specific point, such as an entrance or a decorative element.

At FactorLED you will find controllers, connectors and effect lights to complete your rig. Tell us how many units you are going to control and what kind of venue you have and we will guide you on what you need.

Frequently asked questions about DMX accessories and 3D lights

How many channels should my DMX controller have?

Add up the channels each unit in your rig takes and allow margin for future expansion. Coming up short on channels is the most common mistake when choosing a controller.

Hardware controller or software with an interface?

The hardware controller is faster live and does not depend on a computer. Software with an interface lets you program more complex shows and store more scenes. Many rigs use both.

What is a 3D effect floor?

An LED panel with a mirror that multiplies the reflections and creates a sense of depth. It is installed on the dance floor and in photo-friendly areas as a decorative element.

What is black light used for?

To make fluorescent pigments glow: themed parties, set design, decoration and details you want to stand out against a dimly lit background.