ENTTEC OCTO – User Manual

Introduction

ENTTEC's OCTO is a robust and reliable installation grade LED controller engineered to take any architectural, commercial or entertainment project to the next level.

With 8 universes of eDMX to pixel protocol conversion and network chaining between devices, the OCTO allows for fast deployment of LED strips and pixel dot systems with compatibility with over 20 protocols.

The OCTO is packed with installer-friendly features such as an identify button to check correct wiring, temperature monitoring, a wide input voltage range (4-60v) and intuitive configuration and management through its localhost web interface. All contained within a slim electrically isolated 4 DIN form factor.

Its inbuilt Fx engine allows users to edit and create presets, using the OCTO's web interface that can be configured to run standalone at power up without a DMX source.

Features

• Two * 4-universe pixel outputs with Data and Clock support.
• Support for up to 8 universes of Art-Net, sACN, KiNET and ESP.
• Easily extendable network - daisy chain ethernet connection through multiple devices.
• DHCP or Static IP address support.
• Multiple pixel protocols supported, see: www.enttec.com/support/supported-led-pixel-protocols/.
• Surface or TS35 DIN rail mounting option.
• Intuitive device configuration and updates through the inbuilt web interface.
• Test/Reset button allows installers to quickly check wiring is correct without requiring a network connection.
• Simple Fx generator mode to create and execute preset effects on the fly, configurable to play from power up.
• Grouping functionality to reduce input channel count.

Safety Information

General Safety

⚠ Ensure you are familiarized 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 in accordance with 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 is 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 and verify 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, this could result in short circuiting.
• ⚠ Do not over stretch 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 devices 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.
• Pixel data is unidirectional. Ensure that your OCTO is connected to your pixel dots or tape in a way that ensures data is flowing from the OCTO to the ‘Data IN’ connection of your pixels.
• The maximum recommended cable distance between the OCTO's data output and first pixel is 3m (9.84ft). ENTTEC advises against running data cabling close to sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI) i.e., mains power cabling / 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 within its product datasheet.

Protection from Injury During Installation

• ⚠ Installation of this product must be performed by qualified personnel. If ever unsure always consult a professional.
• Always work with a plan of the installation that respects all system limitations as defined within this guide and product datasheet.
• Keep the OCTO and its accessories in its protective packaging until final installation.
• Note the serial number of each OCTO and add it to your layout plan for future reference when servicing.
• All network cabling should be terminated with an RJ45 connector in accordance with the T-568B standard.
• Always use suitable personal protective equipment when installing ENTTEC products.
• Once installation is completed, check that all hardware and components are securely in place and fastened to supporting structures if applicable.

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 or wet 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.
• Do not sign off a system without ensuring all cabling to the device and accessories has been appropriately restrained, secured and is not under tension.

Physical Dimensions

Diagrams show the device from Front, Back, Bottom, Top, and Side views with dimensions:

Front View: Height: 100.5mm (3.96in), Width: 37.1mm (1.46in)

Back View: Height: 92.98mm (3.66in), Width: 31mm (1.22in)

Bottom View: Width: 25mm (0.98in)

Top View: Width: 40mm (1.57in), Depth: 19.75mm (0.78in)

Side View: Height: 32.4mm (1.28in), Width: 77.9mm (3.07in), Depth: 48mm (1.89in)

Wiring Diagrams

⚠ Locate the OCTO and PSU as close as possible to the first pixel in your chain to reduce the impact of voltage drop.

⚠ To reduce the likelihood of voltage or Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) being induced on the control signal lines, where possible, run control cabling away from mains electricity or devices that produce high EMI, (i.e., air conditioning units). ENTTEC recommends a maximum data cable distance of 3 meters. The lower the cable distance, the lower the impact of voltage drop.

⚠ To ensure a reliable connection, ENTTEC recommends the use of cable ferrules for all stranded cables connected to the OCTO's screw terminals.

LEGEND: VCC, CLOCK (MAY NOT BE REQUIRED FOR SOME LED TAPES & DOTS), DATA, V-

Power Connection using Local DC Input

Diagram shows the OCTO connected to a DC Power Supply, with connections for VCC, DATA, CLOCK, and V-. The power supply is providing power to the OCTO.

Dual Power Connection using VCC

Diagram shows two DC Power Supplies connected to the OCTO, one for VCC and one for V-. The power supply with the highest voltage is providing power to the OCTO.

Power Connection (Using Terminal Splitters)

Diagram shows terminal splitters used for VCC and V- connections to the DC Power Supply, providing power to the OCTO.

Multiple LED Tape Sections

Diagram illustrates connecting multiple LED tape sections to the OCTO, with power supplied via VCC and V- connections.

Multiple Power Injection

Diagram shows multiple power injection points for LED strips, requiring a common V- connection when using multiple power supplies.

Mounting Options

MOUNTING METHOD 1: DIN RAIL MOUNT

Attach DIN RAIL CLIP using the 2 screws provided within the product packaging. Attach unit to a suitable TS35 rail.

MOUNTING METHOD 2: WALL/PANEL MOUNT

Remove DIN clip if attached. Space 2x M3 screws 40mm apart horizontally and attach to target surface. Mount unit to exposed M3 screw heads, slide down to lock.

Diagrams illustrate these two mounting methods.

Note: The surface mount tabs have been designed to hold the weight of the OCTO only; excess force caused by cable strain can cause damage.

Functional Features

The OCTO supports the following input protocols:

• Art-Net
• Streaming ACN (sACN)
• KiNET
• ESP

The OCTO is compatible with synchronous and asynchronous pixel protocols. For the latest list please refer to: www.enttec.com/support/supported-led-pixel-protocols/.

• RGB, RGBW and White Pixel Order support
• User-friendly interface to create and execute live effects on the fly.
• Save effects to play from power up.
• Maximum output refresh rate is 46 frames per second.

Hardware Features

• Electrically insulated ABS plastic housing.
• Forward facing LED status indicator.
• Identify / Reset button.
• Pluggable terminal blocks.
• Link & Activity LED indicator built into each RJ45 port.
• Easily extendable network – daisy chain up to 8 units if the output is in direct mode to ensure sync between pixels. If using in Standalone mode, a maximum of 50 devices can be linked per chain.
• Surface mount or TS35 DIN mount (using provided DIN Clip accessory).
• Flexible wiring configuration.
• 35mm DIN rail accessory (included in packaging).

LED Status Indicator

The LED status indicator can be used to determine the OCTO's current state. Each state is as follows:

A small diagram shows the location of the LED indicator on the device.

Identify / Reset Button

This button can be used to:

• Identify Pixels: Connects pixels to a specific OCTO without needing control data. When pressed in standard operation, all 8 output universes output the highest value (255) for 10 seconds before resuming their previous state. This tests output connections.
• Reset OCTO: Resets the device. (Refer to the Reset OCTO section).

Note: The timer will not restart when pressed consecutively.

Out of the Box

By default, the OCTO is set to a DHCP IP address. If the DHCP server is slow or unavailable, it falls back to a Static IP address of 192.168.0.10. By default, the OCTO converts 4 universes of Art-Net to the WS2812B protocol on each port. Port 1 outputs Art-Net universes 0-3, and Port 2 outputs Art-Net universes 4-7.

Networking

The OCTO can be configured with a DHCP or Static IP address.

DHCP

On power up with DHCP enabled, the OCTO requests an IP address from a DHCP server. If the server is slow or unavailable, it falls back to a Static IP address. A provided DHCP address allows communication with the OCTO.

Static IP

The default Static IP address is 192.168.0.10. If DHCP is disabled or unavailable, this address is used. The fall-back address changes from the default once modified in the web interface.

Note: When configuring multiple OCTOs on a Static network, connect and configure one device at a time to avoid IP conflicts.

For DHCP addressing, ENTTEC recommends sACN or Art-Net Broadcast to ensure continuous data reception if the DHCP server's IP address changes.

ENTTEC does not recommend unicasting data to a device with an IP address set via DHCP server for long-term installations.

Web Interface

⚠ Configuring the OCTO is done through a web interface accessible via any modern web browser.

Note: A Chromium-based browser (e.g., Google Chrome) is recommended.

Note: As the OCTO hosts a web server locally without an SSL Certificate, web browsers will display a ‘Not secure’ warning, which is expected.

Identified IP Address

If the OCTO's IP address (DHCP or Static) is known, type it directly into the web browser's URL field.

Unidentified IP Address

If the OCTO's IP address is unknown, use these discovery methods on a local network:

• Use IP scanning software (e.g., Angry IP Scanner) to list active devices.
• Discover devices using Art Poll (e.g., DMX Workshop if set to use ArtNet).
• The device's default IP address is printed on the physical label on the rear of the product.
• Use ENTTEC's free NMU (Node Management Utility) software for Windows and MacOS (up to 10.11) to discover devices, display IP addresses, and configure them. The OCTO is supported by NMU V1.93 and above.

Note: The eDMX protocols, controller, and configuration device must be on the same Local Area Network (LAN) and within the same IP address range as the OCTO. For example, if the OCTO's IP is 192.168.0.10, your computer should be set to something like 192.168.0.20. Ensure all devices have the same Subnet Mask.

Top Menu

The top menu provides access to all OCTO web pages. The current page is highlighted in blue.

Menu options include: Home, Settings, Direct, Standalone, Network Stats, Help, Update Firmware.

The web interface displays either 'Direct' or 'Standalone' mode, as shown in the provided images.

Home Tab

The Home tab displays network and system information:

• DHCP status (enabled/disabled)
• IP address
• Netmask
• Gateway
• Mac Address
• Link Speed
• Device Name
• Firmware version
• Serial number
• Internal processor temperature
• System uptime
• Input protocol
• Output LED protocol

A screenshot shows an example of the Home tab interface.

Settings Tab

The Settings page allows the following actions:

• Change device name for identification.
• Enable/disable DHCP.
• Specify static network settings.
• Set the output LED Protocol.
• Set the number of mapped pixels.
• Configure color mapping to pixels via the Pixel Order function.
• Reset to factory defaults.
• Reboot the device.

A screenshot shows an example of the Settings tab interface.

Direct Mode

Direct mode can be activated by clicking the ‘Use Direct mode’ button on the Direct page.

When activated, the word 'Direct' is displayed next to the ENTTEC logo.

DMX Protocols

KiNET

Supported commands include: Discover device, Discover ports, Change device name/IP, Portout commands, DMX out commands, KGet commands (Subnet Mask, Gateway, port universe), KSet commands, and KSet device to boot.

Art-Net

Supports Art-NET 1/2/3. Each output port can be assigned a start universe in the range 0 to 32764.

sACN

Outputs can be assigned a start universe in the range 1-63996 (when universe/output = 4). The OCTO supports a maximum of 1 multicast universe with sACN sync.

ESP

Outputs can be assigned a start universe in the range 0-252 (when universe/output = 4). More details are available at www.enttec.com.

Universes/Outputs

The OCTO converts up to four universes of DMX over Ethernet to pixel data per output. Both outputs can use the same universes, or individual groups of universes. Only the first universe needs to be specified; subsequent universes (second, third, fourth) are assigned automatically.

Example: If the first universe is 9, the second, third, and fourth are automatically assigned 10, 11, and 12.

A screenshot shows the 'Pixel Mapping Options' interface for setting universes.

Group Pixels

This setting allows multiple pixels to be controlled as one ‘virtual pixel’, reducing input channel requirements. For example, grouping by 10 means sending values for one RGB pixel will affect the first 10 physical LEDs.

Note: The maximum physical LEDs per OCTO is 680 (RGB) or 512 (RGBW). Grouping reduces control channels, not the number of physical LEDs.

DMX Start Address

Selects the DMX channel number for the first pixel. For multiple universes, it applies only to the first universe. An offset may split a pixel's channels (e.g., R in first universe, GB in second).

ENTTEC recommends offsetting the DMX start address to a number divisible by the number of channels per pixel for easier mapping:

• Increments of 3 for RGB (e.g., 1, 4, 7, 10)
• Increments of 4 for RGBW (e.g., 1, 5, 9, 13)
• Increments of 6 for RGB-16 bit (e.g., 1, 7, 13, 19)
• Increments of 8 for RGBW-16 bits (e.g., 1, 9, 17, 25)

Standalone Mode

Standalone mode is used to create looping effects that play back upon power-up, or to test OCTO output without eDMX data.

It can be activated by clicking the ‘Use Standalone mode’ button. When activated, 'Standalone' is displayed next to the ENTTEC logo.

Note: In Standalone mode, 16-bit protocols are not supported, and RGBW tapes are supported but white cannot be controlled.

Show Options – Activating a Standalone Effect

The OCTO allows control of standalone effects on both outputs via the 'Show Options' section. Both outputs can be set to 'None' or to a specific standalone show.

Outputs can play the same show concurrently or different shows.

Screenshots illustrate these options.

Creating a Standalone Effect

A standalone show can only be created when Standalone mode is activated. Follow these steps:

1. Select the next available standalone slot and click the 'Create' button.
2. Select an output to preview the standalone using the checkboxes.
3. Edit the standalone.
4. If the previewed standalone is to be preserved, click the 'Save Effect' button.

A screenshot shows the effect list and creation interface.

Preview Standalone Effects

OCTO allows previewing standalone effects. Select the output to preview. If different color orders are assigned (e.g., RGB on output 1, WWA on output 2), previewing is limited to one output at a time.

Standalone Effects Name

Names can be up to 65 characters, excluding commas. Existing names cannot be reused.

Standalone Layers Explained

Standalone effects use two layers: Background (red controls) and Foreground (blue controls).

Background

Enabling only the background layer makes the pixels behave like a standard RGB tape. The background can be:

• Set to a constant color.
• Dimmed.
• Made to strobe.

The controllers affect the entire length up to the maximum possible pixels (e.g., 680 3-channel pixels).

The OCTO supports color wheel support for RGB WWA (warm white, cool white, and Amber) pixel strips.

Screenshots illustrate background color and strobe settings.

Foreground

This layer creates effects that overlay the background. The foreground can be:

• Set to a constant color.
• Dimmed.
• Made to strobe.
• Set to create patterns.

Master Intensity

Controls overall brightness for foreground and background. 0 = no LEDs ON, 255 = full brightness.

Background/Foreground Strobe Frequency

Controls the time between LED(s) on and off. 0 = slowest speed, 255 = fastest speed.

Background/Foreground Strobe Duration

Controls the time the LEDs are on:

Wave Function

The foreground layer can form patterns using the following wave functions:

• Sine wave
• Log wave
• Square wave
• Sawtooth wave
• Rainbow Sine Wave
• Rainbow Log Wave
• Rainbow Square Wave
• Rainbow Sawtooth

Wave Direction

Sets the direction the wave pattern travels:

• Forward
• Backward
• Mirror out – pattern travelling out of center
• Mirror in - pattern travelling into center

Wave Amplitude

Determines the brightness of each pixel in a wave period:

Wavelength

Determines the number of pixels in one period of the wave:

Wave Speed

Controls the speed at which the wave pattern travels across the tape:

Offset

Allows the pattern on a port to be delayed.

Editing a Standalone Effect

The OCTO allows editing of saved standalone effects. Follow these steps:

1. Select the standalone to be edited and click the 'Edit' button.
2. Select an output to preview the standalone using the checkboxes.
3. Edit the standalone.
4. If the previewed standalone is to be preserved, click the 'Save Effect' button.

Screenshots show the editing interface.

Deleting a Standalone Effect

Select the standalone to be deleted and press the 'Delete' button.

The selected standalone will continue to play unless deleted. If deleted, the standalone directly above it will be enabled. If no standalone is above, none will be output.

If a slot without a standalone is deleted, a message prompts to select a preset.

Copying a Standalone Show

The OCTO allows copying of saved standalone effects. Follow these steps:

1. Select the effect to be copied and click the 'Copy' button.
2. Provide a new name for the copied standalone effect.

Note: Shows cannot be saved with the same name.

Screenshots illustrate the copying process.

Importing and Exporting a Standalone List

The OCTO allows importing and exporting all standalone shows on the device.

Click 'Export Effect' to export the list. The export file includes all standalone shows.

Click 'Import Effect' to import standalone shows.

Screenshots show the export and import buttons.

Network Stats

The Network page shows statistics for enabled DMX protocols.

Art-Net

Information provided:

• Poll packets received
• Data packets received
• Sync packets received
• Last IP poll packets were received from
• Last port data received from

A screenshot shows Art-Net network statistics.

ESP

Information provided:

• Poll packets received
• Data packets received
• Last IP poll packets were received from
• Last port data received from

A screenshot shows ESP network statistics.

sACN

Information provided:

• Data and sync packets received
• Last IP packets were received from
• Last port data received from

A screenshot shows sACN network statistics.

KiNET

Information provided:

• Total packets received
• Discover supply packets received
• Discover ports packets received
• DMXOUT packets
• KGet packets
• KSet packets
• PORTOUT packets
• Set device name packet received
• Set device IP packet received
• Set universe packets received
• Last IP received from
• Last port data received from

A screenshot shows KiNET network statistics.

Updating Firmware

It is recommended to update the OCTO with the latest firmware from the ENTTEC website. This can be done via the web interface:

1. Browse and select the correct firmware version on your PC.
2. Press the 'Update Firmware' button.

After completion, the device will reboot, and the web interface will display a 'System is rebooting... please wait...' message.

Screenshots show the firmware update interface.

Reset to Factory Defaults

Factory resetting the OCTO performs the following actions:

• Resets the device name.
• Enables DHCP.
• Resets Static IP Address to 192.168.0.10.
• Resets the gateway IP.
• Sets Netmask to 255.0.0.0.
• Restores standalone shows to factory default.
• Activates Direct mode.
• Sets Input protocol to Art-Net.
• Sets LED protocol to WS2812B.
• Sets Pixel color to RGB.
• Sets both ports to output 4 universes, with start universe 0 for output 1 and 4 for output 2.
• Sets Mapped pixels value to 680 pixels.
• Sets DMX start address to 0.
• Sets APA-102 global intensity to maximum.

Using Web Interface (Reset)

The 'Reset to defaults' command is found under the Settings tab. Pressing it brings up a confirmation pop-up.

A screenshot shows the confirmation pop-up.

Using the Reset Button

The reset button restores network configuration to factory defaults. Procedure:

1. Power off the unit.
2. Press and hold the Reset button.
3. While holding the button, power up the unit and continue holding for 3 seconds.
4. Release the Reset button once the status LED starts blinking red.

Tips and Guidelines

Troubleshooting: Unable to connect to the OCTO web interface

Ensure the OCTO and your computer are on the same subnet.

To troubleshoot:

1. Connect the OCTO directly to your computer using a Cat5 cable and power it on.
2. Configure your computer with a Static IP address (e.g., 192.168.0.20).
3. Change your computer's Netmask to 255.0.0.0.
4. Open NMU and select the network adapter connected to your OCTO.
5. If multiple networks (e.g., WiFi) are active, disable all except the one the OCTO is connected to.
6. Once NMU finds the OCTO, you can open the device webpage and configure it.
7. If issues persist, perform a Factory Reset using the button and navigate to the OCTO's default IP.

FAQs

Q: Is it possible to run pixel tapes and dots using different protocols and voltages at the same time?

A: No, only one LED protocol can be selected to drive the output at a given time.

Q: What is the minimum DC voltage for powering the OCTO?

A: The minimum DC voltage required is 4v.

Servicing, Inspection & Maintenance

⚠ The device has no user-serviceable parts. If your installation becomes 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, and maintenance.

Key areas to examine during inspection:

• Ensure all connectors are mated securely and show no sign of damage or corrosion.
• Ensure all cabling has not obtained physical damage or been crushed.
• Check for dust or dirt build-up on the device and schedule cleaning if necessary. Dirt or dust buildup can limit the device's ability to dissipate heat and can lead to damage.

Replacement devices should be installed according to the installation guide. Contact your reseller or ENTTEC for replacement devices or accessories.

Cleaning

Dust and dirt buildup can limit heat dissipation, potentially causing damage. Clean the device on a schedule suitable for its environment to ensure maximum product longevity. Cleaning schedules vary based on the operating environment; more extreme environments require shorter intervals.

⚠ Before cleaning, power down the system and ensure it is de-energized.

⚠ Do not use abrasive, corrosive, or solvent-based cleaning products.

⚠ Do not spray the device or accessories. The device is IP20 rated.

To clean, use low-pressure compressed air to remove dust, dirt, and loose particles. If necessary, wipe with a damp microfiber cloth.

Environmental factors that may increase cleaning frequency include:

• Use of stage fog, smoke, or atmospheric devices.
• High airflow rates (e.g., near air conditioning vents).
• High pollution levels or cigarette smoke.
• Airborne dust (from construction, natural environment, or pyrotechnics).

If these factors are present, inspect system elements soon after installation and at frequent intervals to determine a reliable cleaning schedule.

Revision History

Due to electronic design, check your serial number and artwork on your device for support:

• OCTO MK1 (SKU: 71520) last SN: 2318130: Load firmware up to V1.6.
• OCTO MK2 (SKU: 71521) SN: 2318635 to 2323030: Load firmware up to V2.1. MK1 firmware is not compatible with OCTO MK2.
• OCTO MK2 (SKU: 71521) SN 2341008 to 2350677: Load firmware V3.0 up to V3.1 only.
• OCTO MK2 (SKU: 71521) released after SN: 2374307: Load firmware version V4.0 onwards only.
• Use the Serial Number to claim a free license for ELM software, unless a Promo Code is present on the device's sticker. ELM Promo codes are implemented from OCTO MK2 (SKU: 71521) SN: 2374307 onwards.

Package Contents

• OCTO
• 2* WAGO connectors

Ordering Information

For further support and to browse ENTTEC's range of products, visit the ENTTEC website.

Due to constant innovation, information within this document is subject to change.