Pknight DMX Recorder and Playback Controller DR & PB MINI User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Pknight DR & PB MINI is a compact DMX recorder and playback controller designed for efficient management of DMX lighting programs. It offers robust recording capabilities, flexible playback options, and essential tools for DMX system verification.

Figure 1: Pknight DR & PB MINI DMX Recorder and Playback Controller.

Key Features:

• Effortless Recording and Playback: Record up to 255 DMX programs and play them back using intuitive Record ID assignments.
• Flexible Playback Options: Seamlessly play recorded DMX programs manually or via External Device Control, allowing real-time management through DMX consoles, computer software, or mobile applications.
• User-Friendly Interface: Simple button controls and an OLED screen facilitate quick DMX recording and playback.
• Removable Micro SD Card: Equipped with a default 32GB Micro-SD card, easily removable for quick storage and capable of holding hours of playback programs.
• Secure and Easy Storage: Programs are safely recorded as files on the SD card, ensuring easy backup and transfer, preventing loss of playback programs.
• Packet Loss Detection Mode: Ensure signal stability with Packet Loss Detection Mode, which tests and verifies the reliability of your DMX system.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• Pknight DMX Recorder and Playback Controller DR & PB MINI
• 32GB Micro-SD Card (pre-installed)
• USB Type-C Power Cable
• User Manual (this document)

3. Setup Guide

3.1. Device Overview and Connections

Figure 2: Device layout with labeled buttons and ports.

1. DMX IN: Connect your DMX console or signal source here.
2. DMX OUT: Connect to your DMX lighting fixtures.
3. USB Type-C: Power input (DC 5V).
4. Micro SD Slot: Insert/remove Micro SD card for program storage.
5. MENU Button: Navigate through menu options.
6. UP/DOWN Buttons: Adjust values or scroll through options.
7. ENTER Button: Confirm selection or start/stop actions.

3.2. Initial Power-Up

1. Ensure the Micro SD card is properly inserted into the slot.
2. Connect the USB Type-C cable to the device and a 5V DC power source.
3. The OLED screen will power on, displaying the current status.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. DMX Recording Mode

The device allows recording of up to 255 DMX programs. Each program is assigned a unique Record ID from 1 to 255.

Figure 3: OLED screen displaying DMX Recording Mode with Record ID and status.

1. Connect your DMX console or signal source to the DMX IN port.
2. Press the MENU button to navigate to the '2. Record Show' option.
3. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select an empty Record ID (e.g., 001). The screen will show 'Empty Program' and 'Ready to record'.
4. Press the ENTER button to start recording. The screen will display the recording duration.
5. Operate your DMX console to create the desired lighting sequence.
6. Press the ENTER button again to stop recording. The program will be saved to the Micro SD card.

4.2. DMX Playback Mode

Recorded DMX programs can be played back manually or triggered by external devices.

Figure 4: OLED screen displaying DMX Playback Mode with Playback Range.

1. Connect the DMX OUT port to your DMX lighting fixtures.
2. Press the MENU button to navigate to the '3. Play Show' option.
3. Use the UP/DOWN buttons to select the desired Record ID (1-255) for playback.
4. Press the ENTER button to start playback. The screen will display the playback duration.
5. Press the ENTER button again to stop playback.

4.3. External Device Control

The DR & PB MINI supports external device control for flexible playback integration.

Figure 5: Various methods for external device control, including DMX consoles, PC applications, and mobile applications.

The device utilizes two DMX channels for external control:

• Channel 1: Range 1-255, each number represents a different recorded program to be triggered.
• Channel 2: Range 1-255, used for dimming control of the output.

4.4. Packet Loss Detection Mode

This mode helps verify the reliability of your DMX system by detecting packet loss.

Figure 6: OLED screen displaying Packet Loss Detection Mode with Tx and Rx counts.

1. Connect the DMX IN and DMX OUT ports to your DMX system.
2. Press the MENU button to navigate to the '5. Packet Loss' option.
3. Press the ENTER button to start the test. The screen will display 'Tx' (transmitted packets) and 'Rx' (received packets).
4. If 'Tx' equals 'Rx', it indicates no packet loss and a stable DMX signal.
5. If there is a discrepancy, it suggests potential issues with your DMX cabling or devices.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Micro SD Card Management

The Micro SD card stores all recorded DMX programs. Regular backup is recommended.

1. To remove the Micro SD card, gently push it inward until it clicks, then release. The card will eject.
2. Connect the Micro SD card to a computer to back up your program files.
3. Ensure the card is properly formatted (FAT32) if replacing or re-using.

Figure 7: Removable Micro SD card for program storage and backup.

5.2. General Care

• Keep the device clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight.
• Do not attempt to open or repair the device yourself, as this will void the warranty.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1. Common Issues

• Device not powering on: Ensure the USB Type-C cable is securely connected to a 5V DC power source.
• No DMX output during playback: Verify that the DMX OUT cable is correctly connected to your fixtures. Check the selected Record ID for playback.
• Recording issues: Ensure the DMX IN cable is properly connected to your console. Check for 'Empty Program' status before starting a new recording.
• Packet Loss Detection shows discrepancies: Inspect DMX cables for damage, ensure proper termination, and check all DMX devices in the chain.
• Playback not in sync with music: This device is primarily for DMX signal recording and playback. Precise musical synchronization may require external MIDI or timecode integration, which is beyond the scope of this device's direct functionality.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Official Product Videos

9. Warranty and Support

Pknight products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Pknight website or contact Pknight tech directly through your purchase platform.

For additional assistance, please visit the Pknight Store on Amazon.