Hardware Connectivity

MaestroDMX is an easy to set up autonomous lighting controller that can be set up and functioning within minutes.

Connector Interface

1. Power connector

5V USB-C power port. 2 A max input current. Provides power to the MaestroDMX and attached USB devices.

NOTE: When MaestroDMX is powered on the same device as theaudio output e.g. a laptop, it can cause a “ground loop” that will introduce noise and affect the performance of the system. Avoid this by powering MaestroDMX from a different device or power source or by using an inline ground loop isolator.

2. USB 2.0 Type A connectors (500mA max per port)

Two USB-A ports are available for a Wi-Fi dongle, MIDI, an external audio interface, and software updates via a USB flash drive.

NOTE: Do not use the USB-A ports for anything other than the above-mentioned uses. 

3. Ethernet connector

The ethernet connector provides a hardwire connection from a computer/tablet to the MaestroDMX as an alternative to connecting over Wi-Fi. The ethernet port can also be used to connect to an OSC-based control device or an external Art-Net universe.

4. Line in / RCA audio connector

The Audio connector allows MaestroDMX to receive audio. MaestroDMX expects a stereo consumer line-level input signal (-10dBV max).

NOTE: Standard XLR to RCA cables are not recommended due to higher voltage that can over drive the audio circuit and cause audio failure.

5. DMX OUT

DMX OUT connects lighting fixtures via a DMX cable directly to the MaestroDMX (1x Universe, 512 channels).

6. Indicator Light

The indicator light on the device serves as a visual guide to its status. Different colors and blinking patterns convey important information:

• Solid Red – The device is powered on and booting.
  
  

• Solid Blue – The Maestro is running, but no audio is present or the audio level is very low.
  
  

• Solid Green – An audio signal is present at an acceptable level.
  
  

• Solid Amber – The audio level is approaching clipping but remains within acceptable limits.
  
  

• Solid Red (Clipping) – The audio signal has reached clipping levels and distortion may occur.
  
  

• Blinking White – A software update is in progress. Wait until the light changes to blue (running with no audio) or green (running with audio present).
  
  

Example System Setup

MaestroDMX offers seamless lighting control, providing flexibility in its placement as long as it remains connected to a power source, audio input, and your DMX fixtures.

Required Materials:

To get started, ensure you have the following materials on hand:

• Power source 5VDC USB-C (10W minimum)

• RCA Audio cable

• Ethernet cable (optional, for internet connectivity while using MaestroDMX)

• DMX cable

• DMX lights

• PC, Tablet, or Smartphone to connect to the MaestroDMX Web App

• Music player device (mixer, laptop etc)

Installation Steps:

Follow these steps to set up your MaestroDMX:

• Power Connection:

  • Plug your MaestroDMX into its power source to provide it with electrical power (USB-C).

• Audio Cable Connection:

  • Connect an audio cable to the MaestroDMX, ensuring a secure connection and a sufficient distance from any potential noise sources. 

• DMX Cable Connection:

  • Plug your DMX cable into the MaestroDMX to establish communication with your DMX lights.

• PC/Tablet/Phone Connectivity:

  • Connect your PC/tablet or phone to MaestroDMX either through an Ethernet cable or a Wi-Fi connection, depending on your preference and requirements. Ethernet is recommended for a more reliable/mission-critical connection.

• USB: Optional external audio interface and /or MIDI controller

  • Plug your MIDI controller or Audio interface into the MaestroDMX

Plugging in all the things