ENTTEC 70681 EMU Hardware Interface
ENTTEC’s touring-grade USB to DMX/Art-Net interface delivers real-time lighting control for EMU software.
Safety
- Ensure you are familiar with all key information within this guide and other relevant ENTTEC documentation before specifying, installing, or operating an ENTTEC device.
- If you are in any doubt about system safety, or you plan to install ENTTEC device in a configuration that is not covered within this guide, contact ENTTEC or your ENTTEC supplier for assistance.
- ENTTEC’s return to base warranty for this product does not cover damage caused by inappropriate use, application, or modification to the product.
Electrical safety
- This product must be installed by applicable national and local electrical and construction codes by a person familiar with the construction and operation of the product and the hazards involved.
- Failure to comply with the following installation instructions may result in death or serious injury.
- Do not exceed the ratings and limitations defined in the product datasheet or this document. Exceeding can cause damage to the device, risk of fire and electrical faults.
- Ensure that no part of the installation is or can be connected to power until all connections and work are complete.
- Before applying power to your installation, ensure your installation follows the guidance within this document.
- Including checking that all power distribution equipment and cables are in perfect condition and rated for the current requirements of all connected devices and factor in overhead as well as verifying that it is appropriately fused and voltage is compatible.
- Remove power from your installation immediately if accessories power cables or connectors is in any way damaged, defective, shows signs of overheating or are wet.
- Provide a means of locking out power to your installation for system servicing, cleaning, and maintenance. Remove power from this product when it is not in use.
- Ensure your installation is protected from short circuits and overcurrent. Loose wires around this device whilst in operation would result in short circuiting.
- Do not overstretch cabling to the device’s connectors, and ensure that cabling does not exert force on the PCB.
- Do not ‘hot swap’ or ‘hot plug’ power to the device or its accessories.
- Do not connect any of this device’s V- (GND) connectors to earth.
- Do not connect this device to a dimmer pack or mains electricity.
System Planning and Specification
- To contribute to an optimal operating temperature, where possible, keep this device out of direct sunlight.
- Any twisted pair120-ohmhm, shielded EIA-485 cable is suitable to transmit DMX512 data.
- The DMX cable should be suitable for EIA-485 (RS-485) with one or multi-pair capacitance-canceled twisted pairs, with overall braid and foil shielding.
- Conductors should be 24 AWG (7/0.2) or larger for mechanical strength and to minimize voltage drop on long lines.
- A maximum of 32 devices should be used on a DMX line before re-generating the signal using a DMX buffer/ repeater / splitter.
- Always terminate DMX chains using a 120-ohm resistor to stop signal degradation or data bounce-back.
- The maximum recommended DMX cable run is 300m (984ft). ENTTEC advises against running data cabling close to sources of electromagnetic interference (EMF), i.e., mains power/air conditioning units.
- This device has an IP20 rating and is not designed to be exposed to moisture or condensing humidity.
- Ensure this device is operated within the specified ranges in its product datasheet.
Protection from Injury During Installation
- Always work with a plan of the installation that respects all system limitations as defined within this guide and product datasheet.
- Note the serial number of each EMU HARDWARE and add it to your layout plan for future reference when servicing.
- All network cabling should be terminated with an RJ45 connector by the T568 B standard.
Installation Safety Guidelines
- The device is convection cooled, ensure it receives sufficient airflow so heat can be dissipated.
- Do not cover the device with insulating material of any kind.
- Do not operate the device if the ambient temperature exceeds that stated in the device specifications.
- Do not cover or enclose the device without a suitable and proven method of dissipating heat.
- Do not install the device in damp environments.
- Do not modify the device hardware in any way.
- Do not use the device if you see any signs of damage.
- Do not handle the device in an energized state.
- Do not crush or clamp the device during installation.
Hardware Feature
- Touring-grade hardware interface expertly designed for ENTTEC’s EMU Software, offering easy-to-use sound-to-light integration.
- -pin/5-pin XL provides a combined DMX output of 512 channels.
- EtherCON Ethernet RJ45 with DHCP server supporting ENTTEC lighting controllers for multi-universe lighting output.
- ¼” TRS jack for footswitch/MIDI input to control lighting states in EMU Software.
- Type-C USB connection to PC for power and data transfer.
- Opto-isolation protects your computer from stray voltage or phantom power mistakenly connected to the DMX line.
- Convenient mounting holes for secure DIN Clip installation.
- Customisable aesthetic status LED.
- TS35 DIN mount (using provided DIN Clip accessory)
Physical Dimensions
Mounting Method
The EMU Hardware supports DIN rail mounting. To install, attach the DIN rail clip using the screws provided in the product packaging. Once secured, mount the product onto a suitable TS35 rail for installation.
Note: The mounting access has been designed to hold the weight of the EMU HARDWARE only; excess force caused by cable strain can cause damage.
DMX Connector
The EMU Hardware features both 3-Pin and a 5-Pin Female XLR DMX ports for a combined 512 channels of DMX512 output.
- PIN1: GND (V-)
- Pin 4: NC (5-Pin XLR only)
- Pin 2: Data –
- Pin 5: NC (5-Pin XLR only)
- Pin 3: Data +
Ethernet RJ45
The EMU Hardware features an EtherCON Ethernet RJ45 port with a DHCP server. This allows users to quickly create a lighting control network on the go, without the need for complex network setups.
Note: DO NOT connect EMU Hardware’s Ethernet RJ45 to other DMX ports or any established Ethernet network. Doing so may cause DHCP conflicts or permanent damage to the EMU Hardware along with the connected equipment.Always verify connections before proceeding with installation.
Footswitch and MIDI
The EMU Hardware features a standard ¼” stereo jack, compatible with any MIDI device or non-latching footswitch.
Footswitch: Both normally-open and normally-closed switches are supported. Only passive pedals that short the tip & sleeve (Switch A) or ring & sleeve (Switch B) should be used. A mono ¼” jack for single-switch connections is also supported. Proprietary pedals with non-standard jacks or additional signals should be avoided.
MIDI: EMU Hardware automatically detects whether a Type A or Type B wired MIDI connection is used and works seamlessly with both.
| ¼” TRS Jack | Footswitch | MIDI – Type A | MIDI – Type B |
| Sleeve | GND | Shield | Shield |
| Ring | Switch B | Source | Sink |
| Tip | Switch A | Sink | Source |
LED Status Indicator
The EMU Hardware LED status display various statuses by default: It also features a customisable LED indicator that allows you to choose your preferred colour.
| LED Colour | Status |
| Blue | Starting-up |
| White | Idle |
| Green | Data received |
| Red and White | Powered but no USB data |
| Red | Error/Boot |
| Cyan | MIDI Input |
| Yellow | Footswitch Input |
Wiring Diagram
Setup Guide
- Install and configure the ENTTEC EMU Software on your Windows™ or Mac™ computer.
- Connect the EMU Hardware to your computer with the data-grade USB Type-C cable provided.
- Connect the DMX output (either 3-pin or 5-pin) of the EMU Hardware to the “DMX IN” XLR socket on your first light fixture.
- Connect “DMX OUT” of the first fixture to “DMX IN” of the next fixture. Continue connecting all remaining light fixtures in a daisy-chain connection.
- Connect a DMX terminator plug to the DMX OUT of the last fixture.
- Send data to your DMX fixtures.
- Optionally connect a footswitch/MIDI to the 1⁄4” jack input on the EMU Hardware for direct control.
- Optionally, directly connect EMU hardware to a compatible ENTTEC lighting controller or use a network switch to link multiple compatible devices for a multi-universe lighting control setup.
Note
- Use data-grade USB Type-C cables with 5 cores, which support both power and data transmission; USB phone chargers may not be suitable for data transfer.
- Use data-grade DMX cables to connect your lighting rig. Microphone cables are not designed for digital signals and can cause issues, especially over long distances.
- Always use a DMX terminator plug in the last fixture of the chain to prevent signal issues, particularly when using long DMX cables.
Functional Feature
- Controls any DMX-512 compatible light fixture, including classic dimmer packs, LED fixtures, and intelligent lighting (e.g., scanners & moving heads)
- Supports EMU Software multi-universe output to compatible ENTTEC lighting controllers.
- Streamlined integration with compatible ENTTEC controllers, featuring device discovery and auto-configuration through EMU Software.
- Plug-and-play setup, delivering stunning lighting effects on the go.
- Customisable LED indicator enhances the user experience.
Configuration Software – ENTTEC EMU
To configure the EMU Hardware, you need the ENTTEC EMU Software. Visit the ENTTEC website to download a free version of the EMU Software, which includes basic functionalities to help users explore the platform. The software provides a comprehensive setup and Management suite for the EMU Hardware, featuring.
Device Discovery
EMU Software detects the connected EMU Hardware and automatically configures the compatible lighting devices linked via the Ethernet port, streamlining the configuration process.
Configuration
The user-friendly interface supports the configuration of the EMU Hardware, as well as integration with a Footswitch and MIDI devices for seamless control.
Multi-Universe Output and Patching
EMU Software enables multi-universe output, allowing users to patch their desired devices and universes through an intuitive interface.
Firmware Update
Easily update the firmware of EMU Hardware directly through the EMU Software to ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features.
Device Discovery
In EMU Software, navigate to the Preferences window. This window will appear automatically when the software is launched or can be accessed by clicking the gear icon in the top-right corner. In the Output tab, click the Scan for devices button to search for any EMU Hardware connected to your computer. Once the device is detected, click the gear icon 
next to the device to access configuration options.
Configuration Options
The Config page offers detailed information on the EMU Hardware’s configuration options, allowing you to customise settings:
- Packet Refresh Rate: Data refresh rate at 30 frames per second (fps) by default. Adjustable up to 44 fps.
- TRS Mode: Configurable TRS port for either Footswitch or MIDI input.
- Status LED Colour: Customisable for footswitch or MIDI feedback.
- Make Parameters Default: Resets all settings to their default values.
- Set DMX Parameters: Sends the configured settings to the EMU Hardware.
- Get DMX Parameters: Retrieves the current DMX
- Settings from the EMU Hardware.
Connecting a Footswitch or MIDI
Follow these steps to connect your Footswitch or MIDI device to the EMU Hardware:
- Set the TRS Mode: In the EMU Software, set the TRS mode to the desired option: either Footswitch or MIDI.
- Save Settings: Click ‘Set DMX Parameters’ to apply and save your configuration.
- Connect the Device: Plug your Footswitch or MIDI device into the TRS port on the EMU Hardware.
- Automatic Detection: The EMU Software will automatically detect the connected device for seamless operation.
- When a footswitch is detected, a Footswitch Tab will appear in the EMU Software for further configuration. If MIDI is detected, navigate to the MIDI tab’s drop-down list and search for EMU.
- Footswitch or MIDI configuration: see EMU Software User Manual for detailed instructions.
Connecting the ENTTEC Lighting Controller
EMU Hardware featuring an RJ45 Ethernet port supporting connection to other Art-Net controllers. The EMU Software will discover connected devices and allow integration of compatible ENTTEC lighting controllers.
Follow these steps to configure and manage your devices:
- Connect Devices: Set up all devices according to the Wiring Diagram in the user manual.
- Power On: Ensure all devices are powered on and ready for operation.
- Scan for Devices: In the EMU Software, click ‘Scan for devices’ to initiate the discovery process.
- View Discovered Controllers: The EMU Software will display all connected ENTTEC lighting controllers linked to the EMU Hardware.
This setup supports
- Multi-Universe Output & Patching: The compatible devices to work with EMU Software’s multi-universe output. See the EMU Software User Manual for detailed patching instructions.
- Plug & Play for compatible Controller: Plug & Play for compatible ENTTEC lighting controllers -auto-configured to default settings.
ODE MK3
- DHCP-enabled networks.
- DMX Out enabled.
- No RDM functionality.
- Port 1 Universe 0 and Port 2 Universe 1.
Firmware Update
The firmware update procedure can be used to:
- Update to the latest feature set.
- Reset EMU HARDWARE if it ever gets stuck or stops responding. (Eg, Error mode).
The following steps will explain the firmware update procedure:
- Launch the EMU Software on your computer and select
the discovered EMU Hardware from the device list. - Either choose the default firmware from the drop-down list or click Choose Firmware to locate a file from another source.
- After selecting the firmware, click Update Firmware and allow the process to complete. Ensure the USB cable remains connected during the update.
- Progress will be displayed on the screen.
- Once the update is finished, close the page. The firmware update is now complete.
Note: Please ensure your EMU Software is updated to the latest version.
Factory Reset
In certain scenarios, such as when the device is not discoverable or has unstable firmware, you may need to perform a factory reset directly from the device.
Follow these steps
- Use a DMX-TRS adaptor to connect the 3-pin XLR DMX port and the TRS port.
- Use a USB Type-C cable to connect the EMU Hardware to your computer. The LED will flash red, indicating it is in boot mode.
- Launch the EMU Software on your computer and select the discovered EMU Hardware from the device list.
- The EMU Software will prompt you to the firmware tab, where you can perform firmware updates or other maintenance tasks.
Servicing, Inspection & Maintenance
The device has no user-serviceable parts. If your installation has become damaged, parts should be replaced.
Power down the device and ensure a method is in place to stop the system from becoming energized during servicing, inspection & maintenance.
Key areas to examine during inspection:
- Ensure all connectors are mated securely and show no sign of damage or corrosion.
- Ensure that all cabling has not been physically damaged or crushed.
- Check for dust or dirt buildup on the device and schedule cleaning if necessary.
- Dirt or dust buildup can limit the ability of a device to dissipate heat and can lead to damage.
- The replacement device should be installed inbyll steps within the installation guide.
- To order replacement devices or accessories, contact your reseller or message ENTTEC directly.
Cleaning
Dust and dirt buildup can limit the ability of the device to dissipate heat, resulting in damage. The device must be cleaned on a schedule fit for the environment it is installed within to ensure maximum product longevity.
Cleaning schedules will vary greatly depending on the operating environment. Generally, the more extreme the environment, the shorter the interval between cleanings.
- Before cleaning, power down your system and ensure a method is in place to stop the system from becoming energized until cleaning is complete.
- Do not use abrasive, corrosive, or solvent-based cleaning products on a device.
- Do not spray the device or accessories. The device is an IP20 product.
- To clean an ENTTEC device, use low-pressure compressed air to remove dust, dirt, and loose particles.
- If deemed necessary, wipe the device with a damp microfiber cloth.
A selection of environmental factors that may increase the need for frequent cleaning includes:
- Use of stage fog, smoke, or atmospheric devices.
- High airflow rates (i.e.nearto air conditioning vents).
- High pollution levels or cigarette smoke.
- Airborne dust (from building work, the natural environment, or pyrotechnic effects).
If any of these factors are present, inspect all elements of the system soon after installation to see whether cleaning is necessary, then check again at frequent intervals. This procedure will allow you to determine a reliable cleaning schedule for your installation.
Package Contents
EMU HARDWARE
- DIN mounting clip + screws
- M USB 2.0 Type C -> Type C cable
Ordering Information
For further support and to browse ENTTEC’s range of prodproductsisit the ENTTEC website.
| Item | Part No. |
| EMU HARDWARE | 70681 |
Item Part No.
EMU HARDWARE 70681
Due to constant innovation, information within this document is subject to change.
Documents / Resources
 |
ENTTEC 70681 EMU Hardware Interface [pdf] User Manual 70681 EMU Hardware Interface, 70681, EMU Hardware Interface, Hardware Interface, Interface |