How Long Can a DMX Cable Be?
How Long Can a DMX Cable Be?
1. How Long Can a DMX Cable Be?
Based on testing of the DMX512 lighting control bulk cable itself (excluding XLR connectors), the communication range can reach 300m–1000m (1000 feet–3333 feet).
Communication ranges vary by manufacturer. For example, Tourycable’s DMX512 cable has been tested to have a communication range of approximately 800m (2666 feet).
However, in practical applications, performance is still affected by the environment surrounding the lighting fixtures.
We recommend keeping the length within 400 meters (1,300 feet), with a maximum of 32 fixtures per run.
You can use a DMX splitter to split the line appropriately and manage the distance.
If you need a longer run than that, you should use a DMX repeater or transmit the signal as ArtNet or sACN, using a node that converts it to DMX closer to the fixtures.
2. What Affects DMX Cable Length?
The primary factor affecting the maximum length of a DMX cable is the quality of the cable itself.
A DMX512 lighting control cable must have the following characteristics:
- Characteristic impedance: 110–120 ohms
- Conductor structure: Twisted pair
- Shielding: Braided tinned copper shielding/aluminum foil shielding, or double shielding
For more information on DMX512 cables, please refer to this previous article of mine.
In addition, the maximum length of a DMX cable is also affected by the quality of the 3-pin or 5-pin XLR connectors.
Poor-quality connectors can cause noise. We highly recommend using connectors from Seetronic, Neutrik, and Rean.
3. How to Choose the Right DMX Cable?
3.1 Don't Use a Microphone Audio Cable
First, never use a microphone audio cable as a substitute for a DMX cable—this will not work.
3.2 Choose the Right Characteristic Impedance
Second, be sure to choose a DMX 512 cable listing with a characteristic impedance of 110–120 ohms.
Typically, these cables are printed with text such as “DMX lighting control.”
3.3 Choose Reliable Connectors
Finally, choose reliable connector brands like Neutrik or Seetronic to avoid noise.
Of course, if the distance between your fixtures is very short—such as for a small-scale stage event—you can lower your connector standards slightly; this is acceptable.
After all, original Neutrik connector price is high.
Conclusion
In summary, if you’re using standard DMX cables to connect fixtures, keep the distance for a single DMX control signal within 400 meters (1,300 feet), with a maximum of 32 fixtures per run.
Tourycable’s DMX lighting control cables have been tested to achieve a maximum communication distance of 800 meters.
If you’re looking for a suitable lighting control cable or other stage power signal solution, feel free to contact us or purchase through the Tourystage website.
