Running LED Strips through a ETC Expression board

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by David McCall on March 10, 2011 at 4:29pm

I found this thread by Googleing ETClink. Here is what I got out of it.

http://www.controlbooth.com/forums/lighting-electrics/5459-etc-link...

ETClink is a special connection that only worked with a Sensor dimmer racks to provide feedback to the console about temperature, dimmer loading, line voltage, etc.. An ETClink connection always use a 6 pin XLR connector that is similar to but not interchangeable with the 5 pin connectors that we use for DMX. The only way you could use that wire would be to remove all of the connectors and devices from the ETClink connection, and re purpose the wire to be used for 5 pin DMX connectors. You may be able to make up adapters, but that could be troublesome if DMX equipment is accidental connected to the line at the same time that it was connected with ETClink devices.

If you do rewire it to be a DMX line, you will need to either use an unused universe from the console, or buy a DMX splitter to put the strips on the same universe. I think I would use a separate universe.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Paul Denckla on March 28, 2011 at 4:30pm

You might want to look into buying (if your budget will allow) a wireless DMX controller. Connect the transmitter to your Expression and the receiver the near the LED strips add a DMX cable and you are in business. There are some fairly decent ones on ebay for a reasonable price. Or you can go shopping online for them as well. I have used one I bought on ebay and have had no problems. Good range and no interference from other RF producing gear. The time and effort to convert the ETC link to something you could use will not be worth while. It is a separate ETC communication system, akin to a network.

• ▶ Reply