ADJ DMX Operator-384 User Manual

Introduction

The ADJ DMX Operator-384 is a powerful and versatile 19-inch rack mount DMX hardware controller designed for professional lighting effects. It offers control over up to 384 DMX channels, managing twelve individual fixtures, each with up to 32 channels. This unit features MIDI control capabilities, a built-in microphone for sound activation, and a dedicated fog machine trigger. With the ability to record up to 12 chases and 30 scene banks (totaling 240 programmable scenes), along with 8 individual faders, 4 channel banks, and an assignable joystick, the DMX Operator-384 provides intuitive and precise control for various lighting setups.

Figure 1: Front panel view of the ADJ DMX Operator-384, showing all controls and indicators.

Safety Information

• Electrical Safety: Always connect the unit to a grounded power outlet. Ensure the power supply voltage matches the unit's requirements (DC9~15V, 500mA). Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings. Avoid operating in enclosed spaces that restrict airflow.
• Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not use near water or in damp environments.
• Temperature: Operate the unit within recommended temperature ranges. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme heat sources.
• Handling: Handle the unit with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to severe impact.
• Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself.

Setup

1. Unpacking

Carefully remove the DMX Operator-384 from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage during transit. Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage.

2. Power Connection

Connect the included DC9~15V, 500mA power adapter to the 'DC IN' port on the rear of the unit. Plug the adapter into a suitable power outlet. The unit features a secure 'puzzle piece' design for the power input to prevent accidental disconnection or damage.

Figure 2: Rear panel connections including DMX Out, DC In, and Power switch.

3. DMX Connection

Connect your DMX-compatible lighting fixtures to the 'DMX OUT' 3-pin XLR (female) connector on the rear panel using standard DMX cables. Ensure proper DMX daisy-chaining and termination for optimal signal integrity.

4. MIDI Connection (Optional)

For MIDI control, connect a 5-pin MIDI cable from your MIDI device (e.g., keyboard, DAW) to the 'MIDI IN' port on the rear of the DMX Operator-384. The 'MIDI OUT' port can be used to pass MIDI signals to other devices.

Figure 3: Close-up of the MIDI In and MIDI Out ports on the rear panel.

5. Audio Input (Optional)

For music trigger functionality via an external audio source, connect an RCA cable to the 'AUDIO' line input (0.1V-1Vp-p) on the rear panel. Alternatively, the unit has an internal microphone for audio sensing.

Figure 4: Close-up of the USB port, MIDI/DMX switch, and Audio input on the rear panel.

6. Rack Mounting

The DMX Operator-384 is designed for 19-inch rack mounting. Secure the unit using appropriate rack screws (not included) into a standard equipment rack.

Operating Instructions

1. Fixture Selection

The unit controls up to 12 individual fixtures. Use the 'FIXTURES' buttons (1-12) to select the fixture(s) you wish to control. The corresponding LED will illuminate when a fixture is selected.

Figure 5: Fixture selection buttons and scene bank controls.

2. Channel Control (Faders)

The DMX Operator-384 features 8 individual faders, each controlling 4 channels, totaling 32 channels per fixture. Use the 'CHANNEL BANK' buttons to switch between the four banks (1-8, 9-16, 17-24, 25-32) to access all 32 channels for the selected fixture.

Figure 6: Detailed view of the channel faders and channel bank selection.

3. Scene Programming

The unit can store up to 240 programmable scenes across 30 scene banks. To program a scene:

1. Press the 'PROGRAM' button to enter programming mode.
2. Select the desired fixture(s) and adjust their DMX channels using the faders.
3. Use the 'SCENE BANK' buttons to select the bank where you want to save the scene.
4. Press the 'SCENES' button (1-8) corresponding to the scene number you wish to save.
5. Press 'PROGRAM' again to exit programming mode.

4. Chase Programming

The DMX Operator-384 supports up to 12 chases. A chase is a sequence of scenes played back in order. To program a chase:

1. Enter programming mode.
2. Select the desired 'CHASE' (1-12) button.
3. Select and save scenes into the chase sequence.
4. Adjust 'SPEED' and 'FADE' time faders for the chase playback.
5. Exit programming mode.

Figure 7: Speed and Fade time faders for chase and scene playback.

5. MIDI Control

The unit can be controlled via MIDI input. Scenes, chases, and blackout functions can be triggered using MIDI notes or program changes from an external MIDI device. Refer to the detailed MIDI implementation chart in the full user manual for specific assignments.

6. Special Features

• Fog Trigger: A dedicated button allows for triggering a compatible fog machine (e.g., ADJ VF1300) connected via a 5-pin DIN (MIDI) cable. LED indicators show heating and ready status.
• Music Trigger: Activate scenes or chases to the beat of music using the internal microphone or the RCA line-level audio input.
• Assignable Joystick: The joystick provides precise control over Pan and Tilt parameters of moving head fixtures. It can be assigned to different fixtures and features 'ASSIGN' and 'REVERSE' options for customization.
• Blackout Button: Instantly turn off all DMX output.
• Tap Sync: Allows for manual synchronization of chase speed.

Figure 8: Joystick for Pan/Tilt control and various function buttons.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the unit in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging or a protective case.
• Ventilation: Regularly check that ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating.

Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to the unit and a live power outlet. Check the power switch on the rear panel.
• Lights Not Responding: Verify DMX cable connections. Ensure DMX termination is correctly applied at the end of the DMX chain. Check that fixtures are addressed correctly and match the DMX channels being sent by the controller.
• MIDI Control Issues: Confirm MIDI cables are correctly connected. Check MIDI settings on both the controller and the external MIDI device.
• Programming Errors: If scenes or chases are not behaving as expected, re-enter programming mode and verify the saved parameters.
• Unresponsive Controls: If a fader or button is unresponsive, try power cycling the unit. If the issue persists, contact customer support.

For more detailed troubleshooting steps, please refer to the complete user manual PDF available for download.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact ADJ Products customer service. You can also find the official User Manual (PDF) for this product at the following link for more detailed information and diagrams: ADJ DMX Operator-384 User Manual (PDF).