Suitable for use with the ART SSC, the ART IO is an input/output interface module that is equipped with eight digital/analogue switchable inputs and eight relay-switched digital outputs. Designed to offer great versatility, it supports a number of different protocols, including DMX, RS-232, OSC, UDP and Art-Net.
Each of the ART IO's inputs can be individually configured as digital or analogue, allowing it to handle a variety of different types of equipment simultaneously. When an input is in digital mode, for example, it can easily connect to physical switches and sensors, whereas in analog mode it will support 1-10V inputs such as house dimmers. The ART IO's eight outputs can be used to switch on/off other equipment such as A/V gear, motorized blinds and heavy-duty relays, allowing for total integration of these devices into a single module of control.
"Lighting designs are expanding in size and scope, and so too is the need for controlling them efficiently," said Eric Loader, director of sales for Acclaim Lighting. "This is why we have added the ART IO expansion module to our ART SSC product family of solid-state lighting controllers. It gives ART SSC users more inputs and outputs to work with, so they can handle larger, more complex projects, even ones that span both the digital and analogue realms. Plus, you can use the ART IO for standalone in/out interfacing or with another show controller. This convenient, user-friendly module is very adaptable to your needs."
In addition to its eight inputs and outputs, the ART IO is equipped with a DMX-512 port that can be configured is an input or output, and a bi-directional RS-232 port. It also has an Art-Net feature that supports one universe out and one universe in, each of which can be mapped to any of the 256 universes available in Art-Net Protocol. Additionally, the ART IO is compatible with the eTouch software application, making it great for use with Touch Screens in fixed installations.
The ART IO also offers flexible mounting options - it can be used as a desktop devise or DIN rail mounted. It can be secured with a Kensington style lock. To make it easy as possible for ART SSC users to work with the ART IO, the new module's web-interface features a Show Control page that's very similar to the one in the original ART SSC. "We designed the ART IO to be a virtually seamless addition to the ART SSC. It gives this already very flexible controller even greater flexibility," said Loader.
(Jim Evans)
