Do I understand this correctly?

[Franchise]

A couple months ago I started becomming interested in doing computer controlled christmas lights. Unfortunately, as I researched it, I either found solutions that required me to build and soder things which I am not good at, or out of the box solutions that were expensive. Then I found the following line in the wiki in the DMX section: "If you do not possess the required electronics knowledge to create a controller from scratch or do not the have the funds to buy a commercial system but want to create your own display there is another option." After reading that, I decided that DMX was the way for me to go.

Here is how I understand things. I can download Vixen for free. I need to buy the Open DMX Interface from Entec for $60. The cheapest DMX dimmers I have found are 4 channel dimmers on Ebay for rouhgly $65 plus $15 shipping. Is there a better/cheaper place to get them? I would also need cables. I am a little confused if I would need a 3pin or 5pin. Which one would I need and where is the best place to get them?

Sorry for the stupid questions.

[DynamoBen]

Actually there is a cheaper version of the Enttec dongle:

http://www.enttec.com/index.php?main_menu=Products&prod=70302&show=description

It's the same as the $60 unit but with no case.

As far as dimmers a while back I picked up a four circuit dimmer pack for about $50, that is about the going rate unless you know a DJ that is trying to sell some. When it comes to 3-pin vs. 5-pin that really depends on the dimmer pack. If you end up with a pack that has 3-pin you will need to build or buy a 5-pin to 3-pin adapter.

Does that help?

[Franchise]

Yes, that does help. Thanks for the quick reply.

Where did you find the $50 dimmer? Ebay?

Any recommendations on where to get the cables?

[DynamoBen]

I go the dimmer "pre-ebay." They were 5 yr old dimmer a friend was selling, I offered to buy all four outright before he put them on ebay.

You can get 3-pin lighting cable from must music stores that sell DJ equipment, otherwise online. You want to stay away from Mic cable if at all possible. Regular 5-pin DMX cable can be bought from a theatrical lighting dealer and/or high end music equipment store. Online is probibly your best bet...btw 5-pin DMX cable can be expensive be sure to shop around.