The dmXLAN Buddy 2-Port DMX / Ethernet Node¶
The dmXLAN Buddy is a compact 2-port DMX / Ethernet node supporting Art-Net, sACN and ShowNet. It is fully supported by the dmXLAN software platform and can be used to configure DMX ports, perform dynamic merging of different DMX sources, control fixtures for testing and rig startup, and manage RDM compatible devices.
The dmXLAN Buddy provides 2 programmable DMX-512 ports that can be configured as either input or output ports. The unit also includes a 10/100 Mbit RJ45 Ethernet connection and a USB connection for power and simple setup. An external USB power supply, such as a standard phone charger, is recommended.{index=2}
In addition to node functionality, the Buddy can also be used as a focus remote with memories and groups. By connecting with a smartphone or another browser-enabled device to the unit’s IP address, the remote can output DMX data on the same universe assigned to Port 1. The remote function can be enabled using the Buddy Setup software.
What's in the Box?¶
The ELC Lighting dmXLAN Buddy comes with the following package contents:
- 1 x ELC Lighting dmXLAN Buddy
- 1 x Printed quickstart guide
Connections¶
The dmXLAN Buddy provides the following connections:
- 2 x DMX-512 ports, programmable as input or output
- 1 x RJ45 Ethernet connection (10/100 Mbit)
- 1 x USB connection for power and setup
An external USB power supply is required for operation.
Status LED behavior¶
The Buddy contains an internal RGB status LED that indicates the current operating state of the unit.
Default LED behavior¶
| LED indicator | description |
|---|---|
| Red blinking | Powered on, but no network connection |
| Green | Network connection present, but no DMX data for the ports |
| Orange | Only Port 1 has DMX data |
| Purple | Only Port 2 has DMX data |
| Blue | Both Port 1 and Port 2 have DMX data |
The meaning of DMX data depends on the port mode:
- If the port is configured as an input, DMX data indicates valid DMX is present on the port.
- If the port is configured as an output, DMX data indicates DMX is being received from the network.
Custom LED behavior¶
A second LED mode allows the internal RGB LED to follow 3 DMX channels from Port 1. This can be configured using the Buddy Setup software or via dmXLAN v4.
Configuring the dmXLAN Buddy¶
The dmXLAN Buddy can be configured in two ways:
- Via USB using the Buddy Setup software
- Via the network using dmXLAN software
Factory default¶
A small button located between the network and USB connections is used to reset the unit to factory default settings. Press and hold this button for 10 seconds to restore the factory configuration.
Focus remote¶
The dmXLAN Buddy includes a built-in focus remote function with memories and groups. This feature can be accessed from a smartphone or another browser-enabled device by navigating to the IP address of the Buddy. The focus remote data on the same universe assigned to Port 1. Use the Buddy Setup program to enable this function and retrieve the unit’s IP address.
Maintenance & Safety¶
Before operating the product, read the user documentation thoroughly and use only suitable power supplies and network connections.
Usage¶
- Use the USB connection for power and initial setup
- Use an external USB power supply for reliable operation
- Do not perform a factory reset unless you want to restore the default configuration
- Ensure the correct IP address is known before using the focus remote function
The uploaded quickstart does not include a dedicated safety section, so detailed safety requirements are not stated in the source document.