Obsidian Control Systems NETRON EN12 Installation Guide
Introduction
Please read and understand the instructions in this manual carefully and thoroughly before attempting to operate this device. These instructions contain important safety and use information.
Unpacking
Every device has been thoroughly tested and has been shipped in perfect operating condition. Carefully check the shipping carton for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If the carton is damaged, carefully inspect the device for damage, and be sure all accessories necessary to install and operate the device have arrived intact. In the event damage has been found or parts are missing, please contact our customer support team for further instructions. Please do not return this device to your dealer without first contacting customer support. Please do not discard the shipping carton in the trash. Please recycle whenever possible.
Customer Support
Contact your local Obsidian Controls Systems dealer or distributor for any product related service and support needs. Also visit forum.obsidiancontrol.com with questions, comments or suggestions.
OBSIDIAN CONTROL SERVICE EUROPE - Monday - Friday 08:30 to 17:00 CET
+31 45 546 85 63 | support@obsidiancontrol.com
OBSIDIAN CONTROL SERVICE USA - Monday - Friday 08:30 to 17:00 PST
(866) 245-6726 | support@obsidiancontrol.com
Limited Warranty
Obsidian Control Systems warrants, to the original purchaser, products to be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship for a period of two years (730 days).
For warranty service, send the product only to the Obsidian Control Systems service center. All shipping charges must be pre-paid. If repairs or service are within warranty terms, Obsidian Control Systems will pay return shipping charges within the United States. Ship in original packaging; no accessories. Obsidian Control Systems is not liable for loss/damage to accessories.
Warranty is void if serial number/labels are altered/removed; product is modified affecting reliability; repaired/serviced by unauthorized personnel; or damaged due to improper maintenance.
This is not a service contract. Warranty covers replacement of defective parts at Obsidian Control Systems' expense. Sole responsibility is repair or replacement at their discretion. All products covered by this warranty were manufactured after January 1, 1990.
Obsidian Control Systems reserves the right to make design/performance improvements without obligation to include them in previously manufactured products.
No warranty is given for accessories. Implied warranties (merchantability, fitness) are limited to the warranty periods. Consumer's/dealer's sole remedy is repair or replacement. Obsidian Control Systems is not liable for direct/consequential loss or damage arising from use or inability to use the product.
This warranty supersedes all prior warranties.
Software/firmware: Obsidian Control Systems and its suppliers are not liable for any damages arising from the use or inability to use firmware/software, or related services/information, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
Warranty Returns: All returned items must be freight pre-paid and include an R.A. number clearly marked on the package. Include a brief description of the problem and the R.A. number inside the container. For in-warranty returns, provide a copy of the proof of purchase. Items without a marked R.A. number will be refused. Obtain R.A. number from customer support.
Safety Guidelines
This device is sophisticated electronic equipment. Follow all instructions and guidelines for smooth operation. Obsidian Control Systems is not responsible for damages from misuse or disregard of manual information. Use only original parts/accessories. Modifications void warranty and increase risk of damage/injury.
Protection Class 1
⏚ DEVICE MUST BE PROPERLY GROUNDED.
Do not attempt to use without complete training. Improper use or disregard of guidelines voids warranty and may void warranty for non-Obsidian Control Systems devices.
Keep flammable materials away. Use in dry locations only.
Do not expose to rain, moisture, or severe environments. Do not spill water or liquids on or into the device.
Disconnect from AC power before removing fuses or parts, and when not in use. Always electrically ground the device.
Use only AC power sources compliant with local codes, with overload and ground-fault protection.
Never bypass fuses; replace with specified type/rating. Refer all service to a qualified technician.
Do not modify the device or install non-genuine Netron parts.
CAUTION: Risk of Fire and Electrical Shock. Use only in dry locations.
CAUTION: Risk of Explosion if Battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to local environmental regulations.
Avoid brute force handling. Do not expose to open flame or smoke. Keep away from heat sources.
Do not use in extreme/severe environments.
Replace fuses with same type/rating. Never bypass a fuse. Unit has a single fuse in the Line side.
Do not operate if power cord is frayed, damaged, or connectors are damaged/do not insert securely. Never force a connector. Replace damaged cords immediately with similar rating.
Use only provided AC power supply, cords, and correct connector for country of operation. Factory provided cable mandatory for US/Canada.
Ensure unobstructed airflow to bottom and back. Do not block ventilation slots.
Operate on a stable, solid surface.
Do not use if ambient temperature exceeds 40°C (104° F).
Transport in suitable packaging or custom road case. Transportation damage is not covered.
Protect internal touch screen from sharp objects; use finger only.
CAUTION: Risk of explosion if CMOS battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of batteries according to local regulations.
CAUTION: Do not expose CMOS battery to excessive heat (sun/fire).
Overview
This device is a multipurpose DMX and EtherDMX Gateway processor with many advanced features. Please read the manual carefully in its entirety to fully understand all functions of the unit. To quickly setup the unit as an Art-Net Output device without advanced features, you can use the factory presets which allow fast and uncomplicated setup of the most common applications.
Key Features
- The Netron EN12 is a powerful high-density Ethernet to DMX gateway with twelve RDM compatible ports.
- Easy to configure with integrated presets and advanced merge/routing features, ideal for live production or installations requiring many physical DMX ports.
- Contact closures allow recall of presets, routings, mergers, or internal cues.
- RDM, Art-Net and sACN support
- Factory and user presets for plug and play setups
- Line Voltage powered or POE powered.
- 1.8" OLED Display with rotary knob
- 99 Internal cues with fade and delay time
- Customizable routing and merging options
- Remote configuration via internal webpage
- Contact closures for cue or preset recall
- Powder-coated aluminum rackmount housing
Software and Operation
This document provides safety information and mechanical installation instructions. For setup and operation of all software features, please update the devices to the latest release. Download and study the full user guides from http://obsidiancontrol.com/netron.
The NETRON Ether-DMX devices offer a comprehensive and easy to use feature set, and are continuously improving. It is advised to periodically check for updates on the Obsidian product pages.
Installation Instructions
General
⚠️ DISCONNECT POWER BEFORE PERFORMING ANY MAINTENANCE!
Electrical Connections
⚠️ A qualified electrician should be used for all electrical connections and/or installations.
⚠️ USE CAUTION WHEN POWER LINKING OTHER MODEL DEVICES AS THE POWER CONSUMPTION OF OTHER MODEL DEVICES MAY EXCEED THE MAXIMUM POWER OUTPUT OF THIS DEVICE. CHECK SILK SCREEN FOR MAXIMUM AMPS.
The NETRON EN12 is designed to be rack-mounted; however, it can be used stand-alone, where the device must sit on a firm flat surface.
Device MUST be installed following all local, national, and country commercial electrical and construction codes and regulations.
Power Linking
⚠️ USE CAUTION WHEN POWER LINKING AS THE POWER CONSUMPTION MAY EXCEED THE MAXIMUM POWER OUTPUT ON THIS DEVICE. CHECK SILK SCREEN FOR MAXIMUM AMPS.
Connections
AC Connections
⚠️ The Obsidian Control Systems Netron EN12 is rated 100-240V 47/63Hz and accepts AC mains power over a range of 90-264V 47/63Hz. Do not connect it to power outside this range. Damage resulting from incorrect connection is not covered under warranty.
North America: A cable with a NEMA 15-5P plug is provided for use with the EN12 in the USA and Canada. This approved cable must be used in North America.
Rest of the world: The provided power cable is not fitted with a country-specific plug. Install only a plug that meets local and or national electrical codes and is suitable for the country's specific requirements.
⚠️ A 3-prong grounded-type (earthed type) plug must be installed following the plug manufacturer's instructions. To apply power to the product: In addition to the input, the unit has a loop through output connection, allowing daisy chaining between multiple EN12s. Do not exceed 6A total power draw from the power output.
DMX Connections
All DMX Output connections are 5pin female XLR; however, the pin-out on all sockets is pin 1 to shield, pin 2 to cold (-), and pin 3 to hot (+). Pins 4 and 5 are not used.
Carefully connect DMX cables to the respective ports.
To prevent damaging the DMX ports, provide strain relief and support. Avoid connecting FOH Snakes to the ports directly.
Certain functions may require adapters (purchased separately), such as a 5 pole XLR male to 5 pole XLR male.
| Pin | Connection |
|---|---|
| 1 | Com |
| 2 | Data - |
| 3 | Data + |
| 4 | Not connected |
| 5 | Not connected |
Ethernet Data Connection
The Ethernet cable is connected on the back of the router into the port labeled A or B. Devices can be daisy chained, but it is recommended not to exceed 10 Netron devices in one chain. Although this is an Locking RJ45 Ethernet connector, and the use of Locking RJ45 Ethernet cables is recommended, any RJ45 connector is suitable.
The Ethernet connection is also used to connect a computer to the EN12 for remote configuration via a web browser. To access the web interface, simply enter the IP address shown in the display in any web browser connected to the device. Information about the web access can be found in the manual.
Connections: Front & Rear Panels
Front Connections
- (12) 5pin DMX/RDM optically isolated ports
- Ports are bidirectional for DMX In and Output
- Full color OLED display
- Encoder w. Push to Select / Exit Button
[Diagram Description: Front Panel of EN12 showing 12 DMX/RDM ports labeled 1-12, an OLED display, and an encoder knob with push functionality. Labels indicate "OLED Display", "Turn to scroll, push-to-select", "Menu return", "DMX Port Status", and "5-Pin DMX/RDM optically isolated port".]
DMX Ports Status Indicator LEDs
| LED Color | Solid | Blink | Flashing/Strobing |
|---|---|---|---|
| DMX PORTS RGB | Error | ||
| DMX PORTS RGB | DMX In | DMX Lost | |
| DMX PORTS RGB | DMX Out | DMX Lost | |
| DMX PORTS WHITE | Flash on RDM packets |
All LEDs are dimmable and can be turned off via the Menu/System/Display menu.
Rear Connections
- (2) RJ45 network connections (1x POE)
- (10) Contact Closures (Terminal Block)
[Diagram Description: Rear Panel of EN12 showing "Power In" and "Power Out" connectors, a fuse holder, a "Contact Closures (Terminal Block)" connector, and two RJ45 network connections labeled "RJ45 Network connection w/POE" and "RJ45 Network connection".]
Connections: Contact Closures
[Diagram Description: A diagram showing 10 input pairs for trigger and ground connections, labeled 1 through 10.]
10 Inputs are provided that can be mapped to various functions of the EN12. The inputs are simple dry contact closures and are provided in ten pairs of trigger and ground connections.
⚠️ DO NOT APPLY VOLTAGE TO THE CONTACT! DOING SO WILL DAMAGE THE INPUT AND IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.
The EN12 is shipped with two terminal blocks that connect to the back ports. Lost or missing blocks can be purchased from authorized Obsidian Dealers.
Maintenance
The Obsidian Control Systems Netron EN12 is designed as a rugged, roadworthy device. The only required service is occasional cleaning. For other service related concerns, please contact your Obsidian Control Systems dealer, or visit www.obsidiancontrol.com.
Any service that is not described in this guide must be carried out by a trained and qualified Obsidian Control Systems technician.
As any computer, the EN12 requires periodic cleaning. The schedule relies on the environment in which the controller is operated. An Obsidian Control Systems technician can provide recommendations if necessary.
Never spray cleaner directly onto the device surface; always spray into a lint-free cloth and wipe it clean. Consider using cleaning products designed for cellphone and tablet devices for cleaning a lighting console.
⚠️ Important! Excessive dust, dirt, smoke, fluid build-up, and other materials can degrade the performance of the EN12 controller, causing overheating and damage to the unit that is not covered by the warranty.
Fuse Replacement
Single fuse in the Line side; the EN12 is protected by a single 1A slow blow mains fuse in a fuse holder on the back of the device.
⚠️ Disconnect the product from AC mains power before replacing the fuse as parts of the product may remain live even if one of the two mains fuses has blown.
Specifications
Connections
- Front: (12) 5pin DMX/RDM optically isolated ports
- Ports are bidirectional for DMX In and Output
- Full color OLED display
- Encoder w. Push to Select / Exit Button
- Back: (2) RJ45 network connections (1x POE)
- (10) Contact Closures (Terminal Block)
- Locking Power In/Thru
Physical
- Length: 19.0" (482.5mm)
- Width: 5.7" (146mm)
- Height: 1.7" (44mm)
- Weight: 1.82 kg (4.0 lbs)
Electrical
- 100-240 V nominal, 47/63Hz, 9W
- POE 802.3af
Included Items
- 1.5m power cable (EU or US version)
Dimensions
[Diagram Description: A diagram showing the front view of the Netron EN12 with dimensions labeled: 19.0" (482.5mm) height, 5.76" (146.4mm) width. A side view shows 1.73" (44mm) depth. An overhead view shows 6.33" (160.8mm) width for rack mounting.]
