MADRIX STELLA Technical Manual & Quick Start Guide

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing MADRIX STELLA! Please read this manual carefully and thoroughly before using MADRIX STELLA. Ensure you understand all information.

This manual was written in English and German. It is developed and made in Germany.

Imprint

inoage GmbH
Wiener Straße 56
01219 Dresden
Germany

Web: www.madrix.com
E-mail: info@madrix.com
Phone: +49 351 862 6869 0

Managing Directors: Christian Hertel, Sebastian Pinzer, Sebastian Wissmann

Trademark Credits

Microsoft® and Windows® are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Art-Net™ – Designed by and Copyright Artistic Licence Holdings Ltd. All other products mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies. MADRIX® is a registered trademark of inoage GmbH.

End-Of-Life

This electrical device and its accessories must be disposed of properly. Do not discard into normal trash or household waste. Please recycle packaging material whenever possible.

Copyright Information And Disclaimer

© 2022 inoage GmbH. All rights reserved.

Information is subject to change without prior notice. Errors and omissions excepted. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior written permission is prohibited. inoage GmbH does not grant guarantees on validity, marketability, or other product properties. Claims against inoage GmbH are not possible. inoage GmbH is not responsible for damages, including loss of sales, serviceability loss, misuse, or circumstances beyond its control, whether direct or indirect, special, or caused by the owner or a third party.

Limited Warranty

Five years of limited manufacturer's warranty are granted for constructional faults, material defects, or incorrect assembly caused by the manufacturer. This warranty is void if the interface is opened, modified, or damaged through inappropriate handling, wrong usage, overvoltage, or other causes. For details, visit www.madrix.com/warranty.

Package Contents

• 1x MADRIX® STELLA
• 1x Set of pluggable screw terminals (2x 3-pin and 1x 2-pin)
• 1x USB 2.0 cable (certified)
• 2x Wall-mount brackets
• 1x This technical manual / quick start guide

Please note: Check package contents and device condition after unpacking. Contact your supplier if anything is missing or damaged. Do not use a damaged device.

Safety Instructions

Please follow these instructions to avoid mishandling, damage, or personal injury:

• ⚠️ THE DEVICE WORKS WITH LOW VOLTAGE (DC 5 V – 24 V). DO NOT USE ANY OTHER VOLTAGE!
• ⚠️ External USB power supplies: Using non-permissible units poses risk of fire. Max. 5.5 V / 500 mA output is allowed.
• ⚠️ Any connected external power supply must be fused according to its output and/or short-circuit proof.
• ⚠️ To completely cut off power, disconnect both the external power supply unit and USB.

Power Supply Recommendations

DIN-Rail Power Supply 12 V (MEAN WELL HDR-15-12, DC Output, 12 V, 1.25 A, 15 W, 1 SU, DIN Rail) / Order Number: IA-HW-001027

DIN-Rail Power Supply 24 V (MEAN WELL HDR-15-24, DC Output, 24 V, 0.63 A, 15.2 W, 1 SU, DIN Rail) / Order Number: IA-HW-001031

General Safety Precautions

Operate the device only in dry environments (indoor use). The IP Rating is IP20. Avoid high humidity and contact with water or other liquids. Turn off power when not in use for extended periods. It is recommended to always use galvanic isolation (e.g., an opto-isolator/opto-coupler splitter). Avoid unwanted voltage on DMX lines/cables. Do not remove parts or connect to ungrounded circuits. Do not connect to powered-on LEDs. Connect only to DMX fixtures and controllers that are initially powered off. There are no user-serviceable parts. Repair service is the manufacturer's responsibility. Contact your dealer if the interface appears defective. After warranty expiration, repairs may be available for a fee. Only connect devices, cables, and connectors of the same type as the port. Do not use inapplicable equipment. This device is for professional use only and not for children.

Usage

This device is designed as a hardware control interface for controllable lights/lighting controllers via DMX512, using USB or Art-Net / Streaming ACN over Ethernet. Do not use for any other purpose.

The device can be connected/disconnected from USB or Ethernet during use without rebooting (Hot Swapping & Plug and Play). Multiple interfaces can be used simultaneously.

Technical Specifications

IP Address and Other Device Information

Important information found on the device's side:

• Serial number ('Serial')
• Hardware revision ('Model')
• Default and pre-configured IP address ('Default IP')

(See page 10 to reset the device to the default IP address if needed.)

Compatibility

MADRIX STELLA is a standard network node for Art-Net or Streaming ACN. It can be used with any compatible software, console, or controller. Refer to 'Technical Specifications' on page 4 for detailed information.

Using The MADRIX 5 Software

MADRIX 5 is professional LED lighting control software supporting Art-Net and Streaming ACN, among other protocols. It is recommended for use with MADRIX STELLA, and required for sending/receiving data over USB.

For more information on MADRIX 5, including system requirements and supported operating systems, visit www.madrix.com.

Please note: A MADRIX 5 software license is required (sold separately) to send data via MADRIX STELLA using MADRIX 5.

Daisy-Chain Support

MADRIX STELLA features 2 Ethernet network ports, both functional for IN and OUT, allowing daisy-chaining without a separate network switch or router. We recommend connecting a maximum of 40 units in a row for Art-Net in Unicast Mode or Streaming ACN Multicast at a max. data rate of 50 FPS / 20 ms. In MADRIX 5, activating ArtSync is highly recommended for excellent image quality (see page 13).

Connectivity

The MADRIX STELLA interface features various ports and status indicators. On the top side, there are USB and Ethernet ports. On the front, there are two DMX ports (DMX 1 and DMX 2) and a Power input. Status LEDs are located above the ports, indicating Power, USB, DMX 1, and DMX 2 status. A Reset button is also present. The device is designed for DIN-rail mounting with an unlocking clip or can be wall-mounted using brackets.

Mounting Brackets

The device includes 2 wall-mount brackets. Attach each bracket to the pre-drilled holes on the device's left and right sides. Secure the assembled unit on solid surfaces using screws with a diameter of ⌀ 3.5 mm.

Connecting Your Lighting Fixtures

Refer to 'Connection Diagram Variations' on page 8 for all possible configurations.

1. Completely switch off power before connecting DMX fixtures.
2. Connect your DMX fixtures to the provided 3-pin screw terminals. Ensure correct cable lengths as per DMX specifications. You can connect to DMX 1, DMX 2, or both. Pay attention to connecting GROUND, DMX –, and DMX + as indicated on the device. Insert each wire consecutively and tighten the screw with a suitable screwdriver.
3. Plug the 3-pin screw terminals into the device, ensuring screws face upwards.
4. Supply power to your DMX fixtures.
5. Proceed to 'Connecting To Power And Data'.

Connecting To Power And Data

Refer to 'Connection Diagram Variations' on page 8 for all possible configurations.

1. Handle the device and electrical power carefully. Completely switch off power before connecting.
2. Connect your power cables to the provided 2-pin screw terminal. Ensure correct connection of + and – as indicated on the device. Insert each wire consecutively and tighten the screw with a suitable screwdriver.
3. Plug the 2-pin screw terminal into the device, ensuring screws face upwards.
4. Connect to USB or Ethernet network for data as required.
5. Do not switch on power until all required power cables and DMX fixtures are connected to MADRIX STELLA.

Connection Diagram Variations

The MADRIX STELLA can be connected in several ways:

• Variation A: DMX fixtures connected to DMX ports, Network Data via Ethernet, External Power Supply.
• Variation B: DMX fixtures connected to DMX ports, Network Data via Ethernet, Power via USB.
• Variation C: DMX fixtures connected to DMX ports, USB Data via USB, External Power Supply.
• Variation D: DMX fixtures connected to DMX ports, with both USB Data and Power supplied via USB.

Device Configuration

Via Web Browser

1. Connect MADRIX STELLA and your computer to the same network.
2. Set correct network settings for your computer (Recommended: IP address 10.0.0.1, Subnet mask 255.0.0.0).
3. Open a web browser and enter the MADRIX STELLA's IP address (found on the device side).
4. The built-in web configuration tool will launch.
5. Change settings as required and apply with 'Set'.

Using MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER

1. Connect devices via USB or network (not both).
2. Stop sending control data to devices.
3. Start the MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER Software.
4. Navigate to the 'Devices' tab to confirm or change network and other settings.

From a selected device, use Right Mouse Click > 'Open Device Configuration Via HTTP...' to access web configuration.

Use Right Mouse Click > 'Restore Factory Default Settings' to reset to factory defaults.

For more information, see the MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER User Manual. The software is available for download from www.madrix.com.

Remote Device Management (RDM)

To use RDM, access the built-in web configuration and go to 'Network To DMX Output' > 'Enable RDM' for 'DMX 1' and/or 'DMX 2'. Disable RDM on the port if using STELLA for DMX-IN.

STELLA's Packet Multitasking allows RDM and Art-Net to be sent/received simultaneously during live operation, with frame rates of at least 22 FPS, averaging 34 FPS, and up to 44 FPS depending on RDM packet count.

Description Of Status LED Codes

Reset To Factory Default Settings

To reset to factory default settings:

1. Disconnect all connections from the device (power, data, DMX).
2. Press the reset button (between 'DMX 1' and '2').
3. Continue pressing the reset button and restore power via 'Power' or 'USB'.
4. Continue pressing the reset button until all status LEDs flash repeatedly or wait 10 seconds.

Note: Repeat steps if the process fails.

How To Install On DIN-Rails

Mounting

1. Hook the device at an angle onto the upper edge of the DIN rail.

2. Pull the unlocking clip.

3. Press the lower part of the device against the rail until the clip snaps into position.

Unmounting

1. Pull the unlocking clip.

2. Pull the lower part of the device away from the rail at an angle.

3. Lift the device from the rail.

Using The MADRIX 5 Software

MADRIX 5 offers 3 operating modes:

• Send/Receive DMX via Art-Net
• Send/Receive DMX via Streaming ACN
• Send/Receive DMX via USB

In MADRIX 5, ensure correct drivers are activated:

• For USB: Go to 'Preferences' > 'Options...' > 'Devices USB'.
• For sACN: Go to 'Preferences' > 'Options...' > 'Devices Network'.
• For Art-Net: Go to 'Preferences' > 'Device Manager...' > 'Art-Net'.

Configure and activate devices to send or receive data:

• Go to 'Preferences' > 'Device Manager...' > 'DMX Devices'.
• Go to 'Preferences' > 'Device Manager...' > 'DMX Input'.

For more information, see the MADRIX 5 User Manual.

How To Update The Firmware

It is highly recommended to always use the latest firmware. MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER is a separate software for basic configuration and firmware updates, available for download from www.madrix.com. An active internet connection is required for downloading firmware files.

1. Connect devices via USB or network (not both).
2. Configure data traffic to the devices.
3. Start the software and navigate to 'Devices' > 'Firmware' column to select the new firmware.

For more information, see the MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER User Manual.

Further Information

Digital documentation, including this technical manual, the general user manual, and the datasheet, are available online at help.madrix.com. These are also automatically downloaded by the MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER Software. Access them by right-clicking a selected device and choosing 'Show Documentation Directory...'.

Technical Support

For questions regarding handling or technical problems with MADRIX STELLA, use these resources:

• Consult the general User Manual.
• Contact your dealer.
• Visit the website and online forum at www.madrix.com.
• Direct inquiries via phone or email.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do the blinking LEDs on the device mean?

Refer to the 'Description Of Status LED Codes' section (page 10).

How can I change the IP address?

Use the built-in web configuration tool (page 9).

The current IP address cannot be reached. What can I do?

Perform a reset to factory default settings (page 10).

Does the device support RDM?

Yes. RDM is supported by MADRIX STELLA (page 9).

Is it possible to use more than one MADRIX STELLA?

Yes. Art-Net or Streaming ACN is recommended for large projects by connecting multiple devices to a switch (1 GBit/s) via suitable components or using the built-in daisy-chain support (page 5).

Where do I activate the ArtSync sync mode?

In the MADRIX 5 Software, activate it under 'Preferences...' > 'Device Manager...' > tab 'Art-Net' > 'ArtSync'.

Where can I find the latest firmware update?

Use the MADRIX HARDWARE MANAGER Software (page 12).

Can I use other controllers apart from MADRIX 5 to control fixtures?

Yes. When using MADRIX STELLA as a standard network node, it can be used with other compatible software, consoles, and controllers.

Do I need a MADRIX STELLA and a MADRIX 5 License on a MADRIX KEY?

Yes, if you want to use MADRIX 5. The MADRIX 5 software license is necessary and sold separately.

Can I repair MADRIX STELLA myself?

No. Do not attempt any repairs. Any attempt will void your warranty (page 2)!

What can I do if my unit does not work anymore?

Please contact your dealer or supplier if the device seems to be defective.