MB DMX™
General Information
Unpacking.....................................................................................3
Introduction..................................................................................3
Customer Support.............................................................................3
Safety Precautions...............................................................................4
Features.........................................................................................5
Registration..............................................................................5
Set-Up
DMX Linking...................................................................................6
Data Cable Requirements............................................................6
Termination................................................................................7
5 Pin Conversion.........................................................................7
Linking...........................................................................................8
Operating Modes
Stand Alone.................................................................................10
Master/Slave..................................................................................10
DMX ......................................................................................11
Mounting...................................................................................12
Breaker Reset.....................................................................................12
DMX Traits......................................................................................13
Master/Slave Quick Reference Chart.................................................14
Warranty.........................................................................................15
Specifications..............................................................................16
User Instructions
American DJ®
4295 Charter Street
Los Angeles Ca. 90058
Revised 2/03
MB DMX™
Features
MB DMX™
Set Up
• Micro-Stepping Motors for Smooth Rotation
• Uses Two DMX Channels
• DMX-512 Protocol Compatible
• Variable Head Rotation Speed
• Built-In Rigging Point
Power Supply: Before plugging your unit in, be sure the source
voltage in your area matches the required voltage for your American
DJ® MB DMX.™ Because line voltage may vary from venue to venue,
you should be sure your unit voltages matches the wall outlet voltage
before attempting to operate you fixture.
• Stand-Alone or Master/Slave Operation
• Linkable
• Two Built-In DMX Controlled AC Power Sockets
• Heavy Duty Mirror Ball Motor
• Rated for 20” Mirror Balls
DMX-512: DMX is short for Digital Multiplex. This is a universal pro-
tocol used as a form of communication between intelligent fixtures
and controllers. A DMX controller sends DMX data instructions from
the controller to the fixture. DMX data is sent as serial data that trav-
els from fixture to fixture via the DATA “IN” and DATA “OUT” XLR ter-
minals located on all DMX fixtures (most controllers only have a DATA
“OUT” terminal).
• Optional Mini/C Blackout Controller
DMX Linking: DMX is a language allowing all makes and models of
different manufactures to be linked together and operate from a sin-
gle controller, as long as all fixtures and the controller are DMX com-
pliant. To ensure proper DMX data transmission, when using several
DMX fixtures try to use the shortest cable path possible. The order
in which fixtures are connected in a DMX line does not influence the
DMX addressing. For example; a fixture assigned a DMX address of 1
may be placed anywhere in a DMX line, at the beginning, at the end,
or anywhere in the middle. When a fixture is assigned a DMX address
of 1, the DMX controller knows to send DATA assigned to address 1
to that unit, no matter where it is located in the DMX chain.
MB DMX™
Product Registration
The MB DMX™ carries a one year (365 days) limited warranty.
Please fill out the enclosed warranty card to validate your purchase.
All returned service items whether under warranty or not, must be
freight pre-paid and accompany a return authorization (R.A.) num-
ber. The R.A. number must be clearly written on the outside of the
return package. A brief description of the problem as well as the R.A.
number must also be written down on a piece of paper and included
in the shipping container. If the unit is under warranty, you must pro-
vide a copy of your proof of purchase invoice. You may obtain a R.A.
number by contacting our customer support team on our toll free
customer support number at (800) 322-6337. All packages returned
to service not displaying a R.A. number on the outside of the pack-
age will be returned to the shipper.
Data Cable (DMX Cable) Requirements (For DMX and Master/
Slave Operation): The MB DMX™ can be controlled via DMX-512
protocol. The American DJ® MB DMX™ is a two channel DMX unit.
The DMX address is set on the side panel using the dipswitches. Your
unit and your DMX controller require a standard
3-pin XLR connector for data input and data
output (Figure 1). If you are making your own
cables, be sure to use standard two conductor
shielded cable (This cable may be purchased at
almost all pro sound and lighting stores). Your
cables should be made with a male and female
XLR connector on either end of the cable.
Also remember that DMX cable must be daisy
Figure 1
chained and can not be split.
MB DMX™
Set Up
MB DMX™
Linking
Notice: Be sure to follow figure three when making your own cables.
Do not use the ground lug on the XLR connector. Do not connect the
cable’s shield conductor to the ground lug or allow the shield conduc-
tor to come in contact with the XLR’s outer casing. Grounding the
shield could cause a short circuit and erratic behavior.
Master/Slave Linking:
For a more dramatic effect, link several MB DMX™ together. Your
fixture comes with built-in programs. These programs are designed
to work with up to 4 units when daisy-chained together in a master-
slave configuration. Any unit can function as either a “Master Unit” or
a “Slave Unit.” Link the units together using standard DMX cable as
described on pages 6 and 7.
XLR Female Socket
2 Cold
XLR Male Socket
XLR Pin Configuration
Pin 1 = Ground
1 Ground
2 Cold
1 Ground
Pin 2 = Data Compliment (negative)
Optional MINI/C blackout controller
3 Hot
3 Hot
Pin 3 = Data True (positive)
Figure 2
COMMON
DMX +
1
2
1
DMX512 OUT
3-PIN XLR
DMX512 IN
3-PIN XLR
3
3
2
DMX -
Figure 3
Special Note: Line Termination. When longer runs of cable are
used, you may need to use a terminator on the last unit to avoid erratic
behavior. A terminator is a 90-120 ohm 1/4 watt resistor which is con-
nected between pins 2 and 3 of a male XLR connector (DATA + and
DATA -). This unit is inserted in the female XLR connector of the last
unit in your daisy chain to terminate the line. Using a cable terminator
(ADJ part number ZDMX/T) will decrease the possibilities of erratic
DMX IN
DMX OUT
DMX IN
DMX OUT
To next MB DMX™ if applicable
behavior.
Termination reduces signal errors and
avoids signal transmission problems
and interference. It is always advisable
to connect a DMX terminal, (Resistance
1
3
2
Optional MINI/C:
120 Ohm 1/4 W) between PIN 2 (DMX-)
and PIN 3 (DMX +) of the last fixture.
Figure 4
The optional MINI/C controller
allows all units linked together
to blackout. This unit will only
blackout the fixtures and will not
change or select different pro-
grams.
5-Pin XLR DMX Connectors: Some manufactures use 5-pin XLR
connectors for DATA transmission in place of 3-pin. 5-pin XLR fixtures
may be implemented in a 3-pin XLR DMX line. When inserting stan-
dard 5-pin XLR connectors in to a 3-pin line a cable adaptor must be
used, these adaptors are readily available at most electric stores. The
chart below details a proper cable conversion.
3-Pin XLR to 5-Pin XLR Conversion
30 Foot Extension Cable
Conductor
Ground/Shield
3-Pin XLR Female (Out)
5-Pin XLR Male (In)
Pin 1
Pin 1
Pin 2
Pin 3
Data Compliment (- signal)
Data True (+ signal)
Not Used
Pin 2
Blackout Indicator
Pin 3
Do Not Use
Do Not Use
Blackout Button
Not Used
MB DMX™
Linking
MB DMX™
Operation
Operating Modes:The MB DMX™ may be operated in three dif-
ferent modes. Always be sure to disconnect the power supply after
changing the operating mode, this allows the unit to reset to the new
operating mode. Failure to disconnect the power supply after chang-
ing the operating mode may cause the unit to function improperly.
DMX Linking:
DMX function allows independent control of each fixture. Use any
universal DMX controller to access the different traits associated with
the MB DMX. A reference of different DMX traits is printed on page 21
of this manual. Link the units together using standard DMX cable as
described on pages 5 and 6.
• Stand alone mode - The unit will rotate to the pre-defined speed
set with the dip switches. You can also use the optional MINI/C
remote to control a blackout function.
• Master/Slave mode - You can daisy chain up to 16 units together
to get synchronized motor rotation. The motor will rotate to a preset
speed. You can also use the optional MINI/C remote to control a
blackout function.
• DMX control mode - This function will allow you to control each
unit’s individual traits with a standard DMX 512 controller such as the
American DJ® and LSC® DMX Operator™ or Show Designer.™
Stand-Alone Operation: This function allows a single unit to oper-
ate to any of the presets using the dipswitches. Only use this function
when running a single unit, or when running several units as individu-
als. Please note this function does not allow individual control of the
DMX traits.
1. To activate the Stand-Alone mode, locate the dipswitches on the
side of the unit and flip dipswitch 10 to the “on” position.
2. Follow the dipswitch chart on page 14 to select a preset speed
and to control mirror ball rotation direction.
DMX IN
DMX OUT
DMX IN
DMX OUT
3. Attach the mirror ball to the motor and connect main power.
4. The optional MINI/C Blackout Controller may be used in this
mode to control blackout.
Master/Slave Operation: This function will allow you to link up to
16 units together without the use of an external controller. In Master/
Slave operation one unit will act as the controlling unit and the others
will react to the controlling units presets. Any unit can act as a Master
or as a Slave. Please note this function does not allow individual con-
trol of the DMX traits and will only run to the units built-in programs.
1. Using standard XLR microphone cables, as described on pages
six and seven, daisy chain your units together via the XLR connec-
To next DMX unit or terminate.
MB DMX™
Operation
MB DMX™
Operation
with your DMX controller.
7. For longer cable runs (more than a 100 feet) use a terminator on
the last fixture.
tors on the rear of the units. Remember the Male XLR connector
is the input and the Female XLR connector is the output. The first
unit in the chain (master) will use the female XLR connector only.
The last unit in the chain will use the male XLR connector only.
For longer cable runs we suggest a terminator at the last fixture.
2. Select a MB DMX to be the “master” unit. Locate the dipswitches
on the side of the unit and flip dipswitch 10 to the “on” position.
3. Follow the chart on page 14 to select a desired rotation speed
and direction. Be sure to note that this selection will be universal
throughout all motors in the chain.
4. For all other motors in the chain (slaves) located the dipswitches
on the side of the units and be sure dipswitch 10 is in the “off”
position.
5. Connect main power to all the motors and they will immediately
begin to rotate to the presets of the “master” unit.
MB DMX™
Mounting
Mounting: The MB DMX™ ships with a built-in rigging point and
two large holes in the base of the unit (that are to be used for safety
cables). The rigging point is located on the bottom of the unit. This rig-
ging point is secured to the fixture by two large Phillips screws. When
the rigging point is not to be used and when the fixture is shipped
from the manufacture, the point is shipped inverted (inside the bottom
of the unit). When the fixture is to be hung by truss or other means,
please use the rigging point and secure the fixture with safety cables.
Always be sure to firmly secure the rigging point to the unit. The MB
DMX ™ is to mounted in bottom-up position to a ceiling or may hung
from truss using a C-Clamp rated at 50 pounds or greater.
6. The optional MINI/C Blackout Controller may be used with this
function for to stop motor rotation.
Universal DMX Control: This function allows you to use a univer-
sal DMX-512 controller such as the American DJ® DMX Operator™ or
Show Designer.™ to control rotation speed, rotation direction, and the
built-in power sockets (usually for lamps). Operating through a DMX
controller allows you the freedom to create unique and customized
programs tailored to your specific individual needs.
1. The MB DMX™ uses two DMX channels. Channel one controls
power sockets located on the side of the unit. Channel two
control the motor’s rotation speed and direction.
MB DMX™
Breaker Reset
This unit is equipped with a built-in safety breaker. This breaker is
designed to close the power circuit in the event of an internal short
or power surge. This will reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire and
protect the circuitry. To reset the breaker, push the breaker button in
until you hear it “pop” back in to place. If the breaker continues to pop,
stop using the unit and contact our customer support team, the unit
may need to be returned for service.
2. To control your motor in DMX mode, follow the set-up procedures
on pages 7 - 9 as well as the set-up specifications that are included
with your DMX controller.
3. Use the DMX controller’s faders to control the various DMX fixture
traits. A list of the traits is located on page 13.
4. This will allow you to create your own programs.
5. When using a DMX controller and setting up for DMX operation
follow the DMX addressing procedure in your controller’s manual.
All fixtures must follow a specific DMX addressing protocol for
proper operation in DMX mode.
6. For help operating in DMX operation consult the manual included
MB DMX™
DMX Traits
MB DMX™
Dipswitch Settings
The chart below details the DMX traits in depth. The individual trait
can only be accessed by using an universal DMX controller. Note:
“Lamp” in channel 1 refers to the two power sockets located on the
side of the motor (these sockets are intended to be used with lamps
to light up the mirror ball).
MB-DMX DMX TRAITS
Dipswitch Function Settings
CHANNE L 1
CHANNE L 2
Dipswitches 1 8 Used to change the rotation speed during
~
LAMP
255
MO TO R SPE E D
Stand-Alone or Master/Slave mode
255
CCW Speed 5rpm - 255
255
255
Master Motor Speed List
Switch
DIP1
DIP2
DIP3
DIP4
DIP5
DIP6
DIP7
DIP8
Speed
SPEED1 (0.5 rpm)
SPEED2 (1 rpm)
SPEED3 (1.5 rpm)
SPEED4 (2 rpm)
SPEED5 (2.5 rpm)
SPEED6 (3 rpm)
SPEED7 (4 rpm)
SPEED8 (5rpm)
ON
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
-
-
-
-
-
-
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
-
-
-
-
-
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
-
-
-
-
ON
OFF
OFF
OFF
-
-
-
-
Lamp O n
129-255
ON
OFF
OFF
-
ON
OFF
-
ON
" - " = Dip Switch Off
Dipswitch 9 Control Rotation Direction;
On = CW Rotation / Off = CCW Rotation
Dipswitch 10 Controls Master/Slave Operation;
CCW Speed 0.5rpm -129
129
128
127
On = Master / Off = Slave
129
128
Stop
Note: Dipswitch 10 must be in the off postion for DMX operation
CW Speed 0.5rpm -127
The optional MINI/C may be used during Master/Slave
operation to stop motor rotation and to blackout the
electrical sockets
Lamp O ff
00-128
CW Speed 5rpm - 01
Stop
01
00
00
00
00
MB DMX™
Warranty
MB DMX™
Technical Specification
ONE YEAR (365 DAYS) LIMITED WARRANTY
Model: MB DMX™
A. American DJ® hereby warrants, to the original purchaser, American DJ® products to
be free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship for a period of 1 year (365
days) from the date of purchase. This warranty shall be valid only if the product is purchased
within the United States of America, including possessions and territories. It is the owner’s
responsibility to establish the date and place of purchase by acceptable evidence, at the
time service is sought.
Voltage*:
Dimensions:
Weight:
120v~60Hz or 220v~50/60Hz
12.5”(H) x 11.25”(W) x 8.5”(D)
4 Lbs.
Breaker:
3 Amp
Duty Cycle:
DMX:
Working Position:
None
2 Channels
Any Safe, Secure Position
1 Year (365 days)
B. For warranty service, send the product only to the American DJ® factory. All shipping
charges must be pre-paid. If the requested repairs or service (including parts replacement)
are within the terms of this warranty, American DJ® will pay return shipping charges only
to a designated point within the United States. If the entire instrument is sent, it must be
shipped in its original package. No accessories should be shipped with the product. If any
accessories are shipped with the product, American DJ® shall have no liability whatsoever
for loss of or damage to any such accessories, nor for the safe return thereof.
Warranty:
* Voltage is preset at the factory and is not user selectable.
Please Note: Specifications and improvements in the design
of this unit and this manual are subject to change without any
prior written notice.
C. This warranty is void if the serial number has been altered or removed; if the product is
modified in any manner which American DJ® concludes, after inspection, affects the reli-
ability of the product; if the product has been repaired or serviced by anyone other than
the American DJ® factory unless prior written authorization was issued to purchaser by
American DJ®; if the product is damaged because not properly maintained as set forth in
the instruction manual.
D. This is not a service contract, and this warranty does not include maintenance, cleaning
or periodic check-up. During the period specified above, American DJ® will replace defec-
tive parts at its expense, and will absorb all expenses for warranty service and repair labor
by reason of defects in material or workmanship. The sole responsibility of American DJ®
under this warranty shall be limited to the repair of the product, or replacement thereof,
including parts, at the sole discretion of American DJ®. All products covered by this war-
ranty were manufactured after January 1, 1990, and bear identifying marks to that effect.
E. American DJ® reserves the right to make changes in design and/or improvements upon
its products without any obligation to include these changes in any products theretofore
manufactured.
F. No warranty, whether expressed or implied, is given or made with respect to any acces-
sory supplied with products described above. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable
law, all implied warranties made by American DJ® in connection with this product, includ-
ing warranties of merchantability or fitness, are limited in duration to the warranty period
set forth above. And no warranties, whether expressed or implied, including warranties
of merchantability or fitness, shall apply to this product after said period has expired. The
consumer’s and or Dealer’s sole remedy shall be such repair or replacement as is expressly
provided above; and under no circumstances shall American DJ® be liable for any loss or
damage, direct or consequential, arising out of the use of, or inability to use, this product.
©American DJ®
American DJ Group of Companies World Headquarters:
4295 Charter Street Los Angeles, CA 90058 USA
Tel: 323-582-2650 Fax: 323-582-2610
G. This warranty is the only written warranty applicable to American DJ® Products and
supersedes all prior warranties and written descriptions of warranty terms and conditions
heretofore published.
H. Lamps are not covered under this or any other warranty either written or implied.
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