Enttec's experience with DMX over Ethernet products, such as the DMXEthergate and Datagate, and the enormous success of their DMX/USB interfaces, has led to the development of the Open DMX Ethernet - a simple, low-cost DMX over Ethernet node.
The ODE is a truly plug'n'play Art-Net node. There are no dipswitches, thumb wheels or other fiddly settings to worry about. By default, it is set to output the first DMX Universe via Art-Net (Sub-net 0, Universe 0), making it easily compatible with a wide range of PC-based Lighting Controllers and Ethernet-enabled Lighting Consoles straight out of the box.
To access the full range of features, the ODE supports Enttec's free NMU (Node Management Utility) software, which allows the user to configure the ODE to output other Art-Net universes; to act as an input - making your DMX console an Art-Net controller; or to work on ESP protocol instead of Art-Net (ESP is Enttec's proprietary DMX over Ethernet protocol, used in products such as LightFactory).
Where more than 1 DMX Universe is required, you can simply connect as many ODEs as are required to any standard Ethernet switch/hub. NMU allows you to plug your computer into the hub and 'discover' all connected ODE's, so there's no need to figure out IP addresses. NMU also supports Enttec's Datagate and Playback Wing, allowing you to configure your whole system from the one location.
Like Enttec's other DMX over Ethernet devices, the ODE allows you to use standard, off-the-shelf Wireless Access Points to create wireless DMX links at incredibly low cost by comparison to dedicated wireless DMX systems. The use of 3rd party Wireless Access Points (by manufacturers such as D-Link, NetGear etc) also ensures spare or replacement points are available almost anywhere, seven days a week from major retailers.
The Standard ODE uses a 9V plug pack power supply, and has two DMX connectors, allowing it to act as either an input or an output, depending upon your application, without the need for XLR gender changers. A Power-Over-Ethernet version of the ODE is also available for use with powered Ethernet systems. A truss-mount bracket is now also available.
The full range of Enttec products are distributed by Kent-based Shock Solutions who are able to provide a comprehensive support service in the UK.
(Lee Baldock)
