Your Lighting Rig’s New Backbone: Meet ADJ's Data Distribution Solutions Powering Next-Gen Control
In today’s world of professional lighting, control is everything—and it all starts with a solid backbone. ADJ’s Data Distribution Solutions are engineered to provide that foundation. Whether you're designing for a concert tour, permanent installation, or broadcast studio, these five essential devices—Data Distro 6, NET 4, NET 8, RDM XS8, and WIFI NET 2—deliver the reliability, scalability, and future-ready features you need to keep your rig connected and your lightshow running flawlessly.
The Data Distro 6 is a compact and flexible solution for distributing DMX512 and RDM signals with ease. Built for hassle-free integration into any lighting rig, it offers secure mounting via a single truss bracket with two hook and loop straps or an optional M10 screw clamp (clamp not included). The unit features a durable design with one 5-pin XLR input, one 5-pin XLR thru, and six 5-pin XLR outputs—all indoor rated. Additional features include a Link Out Termination Switch, a DMX/RDM protocol toggle, and a locking indoor power input for enhanced reliability.
NET 4 is a high-performance 4-port DMX-over-Ethernet node designed to elevate your lighting control setup. Supporting Art-Net, sACN, DMX, and RDM protocols, it offers reliable and flexible integration for a wide range of lighting applications. Power it using standard Line Voltage or via Power over Ethernet (PoE) for added installation versatility. Setup is simple with the option to use DHCP or assign a Static IP address, ensuring compatibility with your existing network. NET 4 stands out with its intuitive configuration—adjust settings directly from the onboard menu or remotely through a web browser. Whether you're on-site or working off-location, NET 4 gives you complete control with ease.
NET 8 is a powerful 8-port DMX-over-Ethernet node designed to enhance and expand your lighting control capabilities. Supporting Art-Net, sACN, DMX, and RDM protocols, it delivers smooth integration for complex lighting systems. With support for both standard Line Voltage and Power over Ethernet (PoE), NET 8 offers flexible power options to fit a wide range of installation needs.
Configuration is fast and straightforward, with DHCP and Static IP address options to ensure seamless network integration. NET 8 features an intuitive interface that allows for on-device configuration or remote access via a web browser—putting control at your fingertips, whether you're on-site or off-site. Housed in a compact 1U, 19-inch rackmount design, NET 8 is ideal for professional setups, enabling you to expand from a single DMX universe to eight when used with an Art-Net compatible controller.
The RDM XS8 is a compact and reliable 8-way splitter for DMX512 and RDM signal distribution, designed for professional lighting systems. Housed in a sleek 1U, 19-inch rack-mount chassis, it integrates effortlessly into your control setup. The unit features one 5-pin XLR input, one 5-pin XLR thru, and eight electrically isolated 5-pin XLR outputs—all indoor rated. It also includes a Link Out Termination Switch and a DMX/RDM Protocol Switch for enhanced control.
Ideal for theaters, concerts, and large-scale productions, the RDM XS8 ensures clean and stable signal distribution by isolating outputs to prevent interference, ground loops, and signal degradation. It also regenerates DMX signals, maintaining integrity across long cable runs. With RDM support, you can remotely monitor, configure, and troubleshoot connected fixtures, streamlining setup and operation.
WIFI NET 2 offers seamless integration with standard data sources in the professional lighting industry, including Art-Net and sACN protocols from computers, iPads, tablets, or DMX lighting consoles. It automatically converts and decodes Art-Net and sACN signals, outputting DMX512 through two dedicated DMX ports—ensuring broad compatibility and reliable performance. Supporting Unicast, Broadcast, Fixed IP, and DHCP over UDP, WiFi NET 2 provides flexible networking options to adapt to a wide range of installations. Configuration is fast and intuitive through any web browser, making it easy to tailor the device to your specific lighting control needs.
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Lighting Networking Terms Worth Knowing
What is RDM?
Remote Device Management (RDM) is an extension of the DMX512 protocol that enables two-way communication between lighting controllers and compatible devices. It allows for remote configuration, status monitoring, and diagnostics, simplifying management in complex lighting environments.
What is DHCP?
DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It's a network management protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses and other network configuration settings (like subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers) to devices on a network. When a device (like a computer, lighting controller, or DMX node) connects to a DHCP-enabled network, it sends a request asking for an IP address. A DHCP server (often built into routers or network switches) responds by assigning an available IP address from a defined range, so the device can communicate on the network without needing manual setup.
What is sACN?
sACN stands for Streaming Architecture for Control Networks. It's a network-based lighting control protocol officially known as ANSI E1.31, developed by the Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA). sACN allows multiple DMX universes to be transmitted over standard Ethernet networks. It's a way to send DMX512 data using IP networking, enabling modern, scalable lighting systems.
What is Art-Net?
Developed by Artistic Licence. Art-Net is a widely used lighting control protocol that allows DMX512 data—the standard for controlling lighting fixtures—to be transmitted over Ethernet networks using the UDP/IP protocol. Art-Net enables multiple DMX universes to travel over standard network infrastructure (like Cat5/Cat6 cables, routers, and switches), making it ideal for complex and large-scale lighting setups.
What is Power over Ethernet?
Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that allows electrical power to be delivered along with data over a single Ethernet cable. This means devices like lighting controllers, cameras, or network nodes can receive both power and network connectivity through the same cable—eliminating the need for separate power supplies or outlets.
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For more information contact ADJ:
ADJ USA - Tel: 800-322-6337/+1-323-582-2650 • info@adj.com
ADJ Europe - Tel: +31 (0)45 546 85 00 • info@adj.eu
ADJ Mexico - Tel: +52 (728) 282 7070 • ventas@adj.com
Web: www.adj.com / www.adj.eu
