The dmXLAN Node 3 3-Port DMX / Ethernet Node¶

The ELC dmXLAN Node 3 is a 3-port DMX / Ethernet node with 3 bi-directional DMX ports that convert to and from sACN, Art-Net and ShowNet. An internal Ethernet switch provides a second network port for a local lighting desk, PC, additional Ethernet switches or other nodes. The Node 3 can be configured using the free dmXLAN software or locally via the integrated backlit display and rotary encoder.
The dmXLAN Node 3 supports remote programming and monitoring, remote fixture parameter override, DMX input in Normal or Backup mode, and DMX output modes including Normal, HTP, Priority merging and Softpatch. The node also supports visualisation software such as WYSIWYG, ESP and Capture.
The dmXLAN Node 3 is available in multiple variations:
- DLN3T - truss mount
- DLN3T_FI - truss mount, fully isolated
- DLN3TPOE - truss mount, Power over Ethernet
- DLN3TPOE_FI - truss mount, Power over Ethernet, fully isolated
- DLN3S - surface mount
- DLN3S_FI - surface mount, fully isolated
- DLN3W - recessed wall mount
- DLN3W_FI - recessed wall mount, fully isolated
- DLN3DIN - DIN version
- DLN3DIN_FI - DIN version, fully isolated
Variations¶
Truss mount¶
The Truss Mount version has a built-in power supply and is equipped with 3 bi-directional DMX ports and 2 Ethernet ports with Neutrik Ethercon connectors on the back of the unit. The housing includes an M10 nut on the bottom and a safety eye. All truss versions can be mounted in a 19" rack using the ELC Rack Mount Kit. A Power over Ethernet version is also available, as well as fully isolated variants.
Surface mount¶
The Surface Mount version is designed for wall mounting and has 3 bi-directional DMX ports on the front of the device. The DMX ports can be ordered in male or female versions, in any combination, and a fully isolated version is also available. It has one Ethercon network connection on the front and an internal RJ45 Ethernet connection on the back, which is the main Ethernet input and requires PoE for power. Access to the internal Ethernet connection requires opening the housing by removing the four screws along the sides of the front panel.
Recessed wall mount¶
The Wall Mount version features the same hardware and specifications as the Surface Mount version, but uses a housing intended for recessed wall mounting.
DIN¶
The DIN version is a DIN-rail mounted Power over Ethernet node that connects 3 bi-directional DMX ports to an Ethernet network. Its internal switch provides a second Ethernet port for a local lighting desk, PC running dmXLAN software, or additional switches and nodes. A fully isolated DIN version is also available. The DIN model uses screw terminals for the 3 DMX ports and RJ45 connectors for both network ports.
Connections¶
Network¶
The network connection uses a standard UTP Ethernet connection. Depending on the version, the Node 3 uses either Neutrik Ethercon or RJ45 connectors. All versions provide 2 network ports connected by an internal Ethernet switch.
DMX ports¶
All DMX ports are bi-directional and can be configured as input or output. They are RDM prepared and can optionally be supplied in a fully isolated version. The ports also include internal 120 Ohm terminator resistors and line biasing for RDM.
DMX port pinout¶
| Pin | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ground / screen |
| 2 | Data - |
| 3 | Data + |
| 4 | - |
| 5 | - |
Attention: This product may only be used for controlling dimmers and moving lights. Using the product outside of these specifications removes all responsibility from the supplier.
The User Interface¶
Menu¶
Setup Menu Structure
Main display¶
From the main display, rotating the Encoder changes the screen view to show device information such as device ID, IP address, status and software version. Pressing the Encoder opens the setup menu. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
Editing behavior¶
Within the DMX port menu, the interface uses separate select and edit modes:
- In Select mode, rotating the Encoder selects a different item and pressing the Encoder switches to Edit mode.
- In Edit mode, rotating the Encoder changes the value of the selected item and pressing the Encoder returns to Select mode.
Configuring network settings¶
To modify the network settings, open the Setup Menu and select Network Options. Use the Encoder in Select and Edit modes to change the IP address and netmask values.
For normal Art-Net operation, the manual specifies a netmask of 255.0.0.0 and an IP address between 2.0.0.1 and 2.254.254.254. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Setting the device ID¶
If the Node 3 is controlled by dmXLAN software, a device ID can be assigned for easier preprogramming and identification on the network. Use the Encoder in Select and Edit modes to set the 3-digit ID.
An ID of 000 means the ID is not used.
Setting up DMX ports¶
Each of the 3 DMX ports can be configured individually through the local setup menu or through dmXLAN software. All ports are bi-directional and can operate as either DMX input or DMX output.
Individual port setup¶
By selecting DMX port 1, DMX port 2 or DMX port 3 in the Setup Menu, each DMX port can be configured separately. The local interface uses Select mode and Edit mode to choose parameters and change their values.
DMX port as output¶
When a port is configured as a DMX output, it can operate in the following modes:
| mode | description |
|---|---|
| Disabled | The DMX output is disabled. |
| Out Zero | The output sends a DMX test signal with all channels at 0%. |
| Single | The output sends the DMX values of the selected primary Art-Net, sACN or ShowNet universe. The output is enabled the first time the selected universe is detected on the network or on internal DMX inputs. If the universe fails, the output goes into DMX hold. |
| HTP | Like Single, but merges up to 3 universes, primary, secondary and tertiary, using highest takes precedence. |
| Priority | Outputs the primary universe when available. If the primary universe is not present, the secondary universe is output. |
| FlexPatch | Outputs a complex merge of up to 3 universes with per-channel patching or merge rules configured in dmXLAN software. |
DMX port as input¶
When a port is configured as a DMX input, it can operate in the following modes:
| mode | description |
|---|---|
| Disabled | The DMX input does nothing. |
| Normal | Any valid DMX is sent onto the network and made available for internal use using the selected universe. |
| Backup | The DMX input does not send data if the selected universe is already present on the network. If that universe is absent for several seconds and valid DMX is present on the input, the node sends the DMX data. If another sender starts transmitting the same universe again, the port returns to backup mode. |
The Node 3 supports the following network protocols for DMX transport:
| universe protocols |
|---|
| Art-Net |
| sACN |
| ShowNet |
Maintenance & Safety¶
Before operating the product, read the user manual thoroughly and pay special attention to all safety requirements. Save these instructions for future reference and follow all instructions carefully.{index=29}
Cleaning¶
Disconnect all connected supply and signal cables before cleaning the unit. Clean with a dry cloth. Do not use any liquids or aerosols on the unit.
Usage¶
- Do not use the unit near water or moisture.
- Do not block ventilation openings, as they are required for airflow and protection against overheating.
- Install the unit according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not insert objects through ventilation slots, as this may cause short circuits, electric shock or fire.
- Do not install near heat sources such as radiators, stoves or amplifiers.
- Unplug the unit during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
- Do not place the unit on unstable surfaces.
- Do not place objects on the power cord, and protect it from being walked on or pinched.
- If the power cord or mains plug is damaged, let a qualified technician replace it immediately.
- Do not defeat the safety function of the grounding plug.
Servicing¶
All servicing must be performed by qualified service personnel. Servicing is required if the apparatus has been damaged in any way, including:
- Damage to the power supply cord or plug
- Liquid spillage
- Objects falling into the apparatus
- Exposure to rain or moisture
- Abnormal operation
- Impact or fall damage
In any of these situations, disconnect the mains plug immediately and contact your distributor or technical support.
Warning: Maintenance and service may only be carried out by qualified personnel. Opening or removing covers may expose live parts and create a serious risk of electric shock. Do not expose this product to rain or moisture.