SmartColor Termination

It is always necessary to terminate your DMX lines (some people just don't). The SmartPower PSUs don't have built in termination on the DMX side. Also, when using Apollo SmartColor scrollers or other "Chroma-Q" type scollers or devices you need to loop your 4-pin cable through the devices and back to the PSU otherwise you don't get data termination on the 4-pin lines. It also helps keep the voltage up on the line.

 

What Alex said. For more, [user]DCATTechie[/user], see these posts: http://www.controlbooth.com/forums/lighting/9116-dmx-termination-plug.html#post105348 (post#5) and http://www.controlbooth.com/forums/lighting/9116-dmx-termination-plug.html#post105370 (post#10).

edit: In reviewing this document: http://downloads.goapollo.com/Smart%20Power%20Spec%20Sheet.pdf, the good folks at Apollo appear to have done themselves as well as the entire industry a disservice by including the phrase "Built-in terminator" on the spec sheet.

"Apollo Design Technology, confusing users since 05-13-08." Shame on you, [user]Kelite[/user]!

 

Well, to give Apollo some credit, there is built in termination on the data return port for the 4-pin cable. Of course you only get termination if you make a loop with your cabling (like you are supposed to).

 

They do sell a four pin terminator however for shorter runs that power drop off is not an issue for.

 

Apollo Design | Data Terminator

First, you should only be running 1-2 devices off of that power supply. Also, you should be using as little cable as possible, say 25'. Throw the terminator above on and you will be all set.

 

Couldn't one accomplish the same goal by purchasing an A4M and a 120Ω resistor and soldering it to pins 2&3 then clearly labeling it "Terminator" so as not to confuse with an empty plug?

 

Just make sure the resistor is at least 2 watts.

~Dave

 

Yup, but there is no gum.