MADRIX® Nebula 12 Universe SPI Pixel Lighting Controller

Introduction

The MADRIX® Nebula is an advanced SPI pixel lighting controller designed for professional lighting installations. It provides direct connectivity to a wide range of LED types and offers robust control capabilities for complex lighting setups. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your MADRIX® Nebula device.

Figure 1: Front view of the MADRIX Nebula controller, showing USB, Ethernet, and power inputs, along with LED indicators for power, USB, and two ports.

Product Features

• SPI Converter & Direct Connection: Directly connect to a wide range of supported LEDs via two 4-pin screw terminals. A signal frequency of up to 24 MHz is available. Supply power over USB or 5 V to 24 V over a 2-pin screw terminal.
• Quality Output Of 12 Universes: Each device drives up to 2,040 RGB pixels while ensuring responsive delivery of high-quality signals to each individual LED. You can choose the output protocol separately for each of the two ports.
• Art-Net / Streaming ACN / USB: Network data is directly converted to SPI without the need for an additional interface. Reliably distribute data from any compatible software or hardware controller. In addition, simply connect to MADRIX 5 over USB.
• Sync Mode & Daisy-Chain Support: MADRIX 5 and MADRIX hardware allow you to fully synchronize Art-Net data for all ports and across devices to get an optimal image on the LEDs without visual interruptions. 2 Ethernet ports allow linearly daisy-chaining several devices together.
• Designed For DIN Rails Or Walls: Its non-conductive enclosure and standardized design for 35 mm top-hat rails make mounting quick, easy, and safe. 2 extra brackets are provided for optional wall mounting. 9 indicators quickly show the device status with the option to turn them off.
• Invaluable Features: The device is ready within seconds after startup. HTP merging is automatically available for two Ethernet sources. Its firmware can be updated for future enhancements. Access and change specific device settings using the built-in web configuration page.

Setup and Installation

1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the MADRIX® Nebula controller from its packaging. Verify that all components are present and undamaged. The package should include the Nebula device, a USB cable, and screw terminals for connections.

Figure 2: Angled view of the MADRIX Nebula, highlighting its compact design and various connection points.

2. Mounting Options

The MADRIX® Nebula is designed for flexible installation. It can be mounted on standard 35 mm top-hat DIN rails or directly on walls using the provided brackets. Ensure the mounting location is stable and provides adequate ventilation.

Figure 3: The MADRIX Nebula controller shown mounted on a standard DIN rail, demonstrating its ease of integration into existing setups.

3. Connectivity and Wiring

The Nebula controller offers multiple connection points for power, data, and control signals. Refer to the diagrams below for proper wiring and port identification.

• Power Input: 5-24 VDC via a 2-pin screw terminal or USB.
• SPI Outputs: Two 4-pin screw terminals (Port 1 and Port 2) for connecting to LED pixels (GND, Data, Clock, V+).
• Ethernet Ports: Two RJ45 Ethernet ports for network data (Art-Net, Streaming ACN) and daisy-chaining.
• USB Port: For direct connection to MADRIX 5 software.

Figure 4: Detailed diagram illustrating the various connectivity ports on the MADRIX Nebula, including SPI outputs, Ethernet, USB, and power input.

Figure 5: A comprehensive wire diagram demonstrating how to connect LED pixels to the SPI output ports of the MADRIX Nebula controller.

Important: Do not connect both USB and 5-24 VDC power simultaneously. Choose one power source.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On

Once all connections are securely made, apply power to the device. The Power LED indicator on the front panel will illuminate, indicating the device is ready for operation.

2. Network Configuration

The MADRIX® Nebula can be configured via its built-in web configuration page. Connect the device to your network via an Ethernet cable. The default IP address is typically 10.77.111.77. Access this IP address in a web browser to configure settings such as output protocols for each port and network parameters.

3. Software Integration (MADRIX 5)

For comprehensive control and advanced features, connect the Nebula to a computer running MADRIX 5 software via USB or Ethernet. MADRIX 5 allows for full synchronization of Art-Net data across multiple devices and ports, ensuring seamless visual effects.

4. LED Indicators

The front panel features several LED indicators:

• Power: Indicates the device is powered on.
• USB: Indicates active USB connection.
• Port 1 / Port 2: Indicate data activity on the respective SPI output ports.

These indicators provide quick visual feedback on the device's status. They can be optionally turned off via the web configuration page if desired.

Maintenance

The MADRIX® Nebula is designed for reliable, long-term operation with minimal maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal performance:

• Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Ensure proper ventilation around the device to prevent overheating.
• Regularly check all cable connections for security and integrity.
• Periodically check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes. Firmware updates can be performed via the web configuration page.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your MADRIX® Nebula, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power: Ensure the power supply is correctly connected and providing the correct voltage (5-24 VDC) or that the USB cable is properly connected to a powered USB port. Check the Power LED indicator.
• No Data Output:
  • Verify that the LED pixels are correctly wired to the SPI output terminals (GND, Data, Clock, V+).
  • Check the output protocol settings for each port via the web configuration page.
  • Ensure the control software (e.g., MADRIX 5) is sending data to the correct IP address and port.
  • Check the Port 1 / Port 2 LED indicators for data activity.
• Network Connectivity Issues:
  • Confirm the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the Nebula and your network device.
  • Verify the IP address settings in the web configuration page. Ensure it is compatible with your network.
  • Try restarting the Nebula device and your network equipment.
• Unresponsive Web Interface: If the web interface is not accessible, try resetting the device (if a reset button is available, otherwise power cycle). Ensure your computer is on the same network subnet as the Nebula.

For persistent issues, refer to the official MADRIX support resources or contact SIRS-E customer support.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

SIRS-E provides protection plans for the MADRIX® Nebula controller. For details regarding warranty coverage and to purchase extended protection plans, please refer to your purchase documentation or visit the official SIRS-E website. Firmware updates and additional technical support resources are available through the built-in web configuration page and the MADRIX website.

For direct support, please visit the SIRS-E Store on Amazon or the official MADRIX website.