Connecting Lights to Each Other: How Does It Work and What Are Your Options?

Connecting lights together can be necessary to create a consistent light show, especially for larger events or in a professional setting. This process can serve several purposes, such as synchronizing lighting effects, centralizing control, or improving the flexibility of your lighting. Here we explain how to connect lights together and what the different options are.

1. Connection via DMX

The most common way to connect multiple lights together is via DMX (Digital Multiplex) . DMX is a communications protocol used to control lighting and other effects (such as lasers or smoke machines) at a concert or event. This allows multiple lights to respond to one controller.

How does it work?

• DMX controller : This is the device that sends the DMX signal. This signal is used to control the lights.
• DMX Cable : Lights are connected to each other using a DMX cable. DMX cables are usually 3-pin or 5-pin and can connect up to 32 devices together using a daisy chain system.
• DMX Input and Output : Each light has a DMX input and output port that allows the signal to be passed from one light to the next. This ensures that the DMX signal is spread throughout the chain.

Advantages :

• You can control multiple lights at the same time with one controller.
• It offers full control over each lamp individually or in groups.
• You can integrate different types of lighting, such as moving heads, spotlights and effects, into one system.

Disadvantages :

• The configuration can be a bit complex for beginners.
• A physical network of cables is needed to connect everything.

2. Connection via Wireless DMX

For larger events where cables are not always practical, wireless DMX can be an excellent solution. This allows you to connect and control your lights wirelessly, offering flexibility and eliminating the need for cables.

How does it work?

• Instead of physical DMX cables, the DMX signal is sent via a wireless receiver and transmitter.
• The transmitter is connected to the DMX controller, and the receivers are placed on the lights. This allows you to control the lights remotely, which is useful for shows with a lot of lights spread over a large area.

Advantages :

• No cables required, which simplifies set-up and increases freedom of movement.
• Ideal for large events or outdoor locations.

Disadvantages :

• It can be more expensive than wired solutions.
• Wireless signals can sometimes interfere with other equipment.

3. Connection via daisy-chaining (serial connection)

Another way to connect lights together is via daisy-chaining , where lights are directly connected to each other via their outputs and inputs. This system can only work if the lights are DMX compatible.

How does it work?

• The DMX controller is connected to the first lamp in the chain.
• The first light has a DMX output, which is connected to the DMX input of the next light, and so on.
• This method allows up to 32 devices to be connected in a single chain.

Advantages :

• Easy to set up and inexpensive compared to wireless DMX.
• Suitable for smaller events or setups.

Disadvantages :

• The number of devices is limited to 32 per DMX chain.
• It can be more difficult to connect a long string of lights without losing signal strength.

4. Connection via Link cables (special connections)

Some lighting systems allow you to connect lights using link cables that are specifically designed for certain brands or types of lights. These cables are specific to devices from the same manufacturer and can easily connect multiple lights together.

How does it work?

• The lamps have a special input and output for the link cable.
• The lights can then communicate with each other and are often preset to create a specific effect, such as the synchronous movement of multiple moving heads.

Advantages :

• Easy to use, especially if you have the same brand of lights.
• Often less complex than setting up a complete DMX system.

Disadvantages :

• This system often only works with lamps from the same manufacturer or series.
• Less flexibility in connecting different devices.

5. Using Controllers with Multiple Outputs

If you have a controller with multiple DMX outputs, you can light multiple groups of lights at once without having to connect them in a daisy chain. This is useful when you want to light different sections of your light show independently, but still control them all from one controller.

How does it work?

• The controller has multiple DMX outputs that allow you to control different groups of lamps separately.
• You connect the lights directly to the controller without connecting them in a chain, which means you have more control over each group of lights.

Advantages :

• Flexibility in controlling different sections of your light show.
• Less complexity in cable configuration.

Disadvantages :

• You will need a controller that supports multiple outputs.
• Can be more expensive than simple DMX controllers.

Conclusion

There are several ways to connect lights, depending on your needs, the size of your setup, and the type of equipment you are using. Whether you opt for a simple DMX connection, wireless DMX, or special link cables, it is important to understand which method is best suited to your specific situation. Choosing the right connection option will allow you to easily and effectively manage your lighting and light shows, so you can achieve visually stunning results.