BECKHOFF Automation have integrated the EL6851 DMX terminal, a building automation subsystem with the EtherCAT terminal system. The EtherCAT terminal system allows the direct connection of up to 32 DMX devices and supports transmission of the full DMX protocol width of 512 bytes in one control cycle using EtherCAT.
DMX is the standard protocol for controlling professional stage and effect lighting equipment, which is used for the dynamic lighting of showrooms and salesrooms as well as for displays of light and colour in high-profile buildings, such as hotels and event centres. For static DMX light sources, colour mixing and brightness values are transmitted, while moving DMX light sources receive additional spatial coordinates.
The high data transfer rate of EtherCAT terminal system permits higher update rates of light settings, resulting in harmonious changes of light and colour as perceived by the human eye. The EL6851 DMX terminal can be used to control DMX devices with three axes, such as scanners, moving heads or spotlights. To efficiently design these systems, time-saving IEC 61131-3 function blocks for faster system programming are available for use through TwinCAT automation software from BECKHOFF Automation.
The EtherCAT terminal system is a modular I/O system consisting of electronic terminal blocks. The technological features of EtherCAT terminal system are supported throughout the system, since the EtherCAT protocol is retained completely right down to each individual I/O terminal. The EtherCAT terminal system is available for digital and analogue signal types encountered in the automation. Subordinate bus systems such as the DMX are seamlessly integrated through local master/slave terminals.