Lynx dimmer coop [Archive] - Do It Yourself Christmas Forums

10-02-2007, 12:12 AM

I intend to coop the complete LYNX after christmas after they have run a complete season and have proven to be bullet proof. This will be the PCB, parts, enclosure,preprogrammed dmx pic, everything needed to build it complete minus the power cords. I will leave that to the user as different people need different plugs and lengths. The LYNX is a 16 channel DMX all in one dimmer that uses hardware pwm instead of firmware pwm. It runs on ac but puts out DC to the lights for smooth operation of leds as well as standard lights. It is being setup to also handle the low voltage for those overseas that use it. It can do 512 channels at less than 50ms with the enttec DMX PRO dongle and vixen. It has onboard ssr's which is good for 2 amps per channel confortably and the total for the unit is 18 amps. It is a very nice system that is not complcated and is easy to assemble.

you can read about it here

http://ledtriks.21.forumer.com/viewtopic.php?t=41

here is some videos of it

http://media.putfile.com/new-dongle

http://media.putfile.com/Lynx-Demo

The cost would depend on the number ordered but with 50 it would run somewhere around $80 plus shipping to you.

What I need to know is if there is any interest.

kiwichristmas

10-02-2007, 04:37 AM

most defiantly interested :D

Macrosill

10-02-2007, 08:14 AM

WOW! At 5 dollars per channel, worst case scenario, I think you will get lots of interest. It is basically a kit setup just like LOR and D-Lights. And their cost is way higher. Plus the Lynx system uses the best software available for computerizing lights!

Interested? Of course I am.

It looks good RJ, you did a great job!

Michael

10-02-2007, 10:03 AM

greenmeanie

10-02-2007, 02:20 PM

They look interesting might have to check it out :)

10-02-2007, 08:03 PM

I was asked about setting up a 600 channel system with a challenging layout and this looks like it would be a perfect fit for next year. Are those boxes sealed enough for a cold winter climate, or do they need extra protection? Is there a metal box option so I can bolt them down and have them resist vandals better? I know you have not started the coop yet, but those are my questions.

They are made with ears and bolt holes to bolt down. They are plastic but its the tough polyplastic not thin stuff so I think your good there. The only openings are the standard sheilded electical strain reliefs so mounted correctly with them down I don't see any problems for you. The tops have a double lipped seal and a little silicone grease or rtv will insure a seal which is what I am doing (Its tight probley don't need it). I don't have or intend to have metal ones made for it. I think most people will be very happy with the current ones as the boards were designed to fit so they bolt right in on the eight built in pcb post.

I attached a photo of the inside so you can see. The current version only has two rj45 connectors for DMX in and DMX out. The other two were an experiment which I dropped.

10-04-2007, 11:54 PM

Ok,

So everyone understands, I am doing this coop with no profit to me just work and a better price on more of them. The reason I am doing it as a whole kit is to make it easy for everyone and to have consistance as well as getting us all including me the best price. I will have to limit it to the first 50 or so units on a first come first serve basis as I don't want it to be so much that I can't handle it in a short time frame. 50 units will not be hard so turnaround should be pretty quick. It will also not be open to orders after January even if we don't get fifty units so as to insure everyone has them very early and has plenty of time to get them done and play with them. If we get fifty in a hurry I will close it and we will order them and you can get them early as long as they have been in use for at least 2 weeks working flawless in my show (this is why I have waited I want no one to have issues). I also have a lot to design this year so I want to do the coop early and get started on the other stuff. I will not count the ten more I am ordering for me towards the fifty as I don't have to ship them back out. so even if ten units get cancelled at the end we still will meet the fifty order size for the price. I will not be ordering any extras. So if you want them get them. No money will change hand until the order is ready to be placed. Shipping will cost exactly what it cost me to ship it to you including boxes or what every I will use the cheapest way I can.

They include the case and everything but power cables. The pic chip will be programmed when you get the parts so you will not need to program anything but vixen. They will look exactly like the picture when you are done assembling them and we will have a good manual for them so even the most novice of our builders will be successful in building them. The cases will have the holes for the cables and strain reliefs (std 3/8 and 3/4 reliefs from any hardware store) drilled with the template we created to insure they are in the right location. The board is not tight so there is no tight spots to solder. All chips have sockets included for them.

You will need a Enttec DMX PRO usb dongle which you can purchase from ebay to create DMX from your computer and Vixen to create your show.
I use cat5 cable for my dmx and the dmx in and out on the LYNX are both RJ45.

The DMX PRO plugin is in vixen so that is ready to go.

If you want any please begin by posting in this thread giving me the number you want. Again the first fifty units requested get them and if someone cancels the next in line gets the slots.

Thanks
RJ

LRNeener

10-05-2007, 01:09 AM

Put me in for 2.

Thanks
Camron

grages

10-05-2007, 07:10 AM

I would like 1.

Thanks
Shawn

grages

10-05-2007, 09:33 AM

It runs on ac but puts out DC to the lights for smooth operation of leds as well as standard lights.

RJ,

What exactly does that mean? In the video the light strings look like standard lights. I guess they could run off DC, i just have not thought about it.

Shawn

grages

10-05-2007, 10:19 AM

RJ,

For those using the 3 pin connectors...

What are your thoughts of an individual adding 3 pin connectors to the lynx box and wiring a pigtail with rj45 to plug in to the in and outs on the board? I would not want to mod the board itself.

http://www.mpja.com/images/2972.jpg
http://www.mpja.com/images/3136.jpg

greenmeanie

10-05-2007, 10:51 AM

I noticed no heatsinks on the SSR's? Are they not needed with DMX?

10-05-2007, 11:08 AM

10-05-2007, 11:14 AM

The system uses a very effiecent design that will handle more than you would think. The heat generated by a triac is during the switching. When there off or on they do not generate that much heat. Think of it this way if its on it has almost no voltage drop but lots of current so ohms law says lots of current no voltage = no watts. on the other hand when there off they have 120 volts of drop but no current flowing. so high voltage no current = no watts. now this is a over simplification but you get the idea. they will run 2 amps at 104 degs F in 80 deg ambiant. They are rated to operate to 275 degs F so we are not pushing anything. They are rated for 18 amps each but of course you would need sinks for that and the pcb traces would never survive.

grages

10-05-2007, 11:28 AM

the Lights work on DC or AC. The cheaper LED strings with the half wave rectifiers will not flicker which people do not like with the DC and the dimming is very smooth since we don't have to worry with waveform timing. So DC changes nothing in what you use or do. The lights your refering to are walmart christmas lights. i have tested numerous different LED strings also and with this system the cheap leds work as well as the expensive ones. No problem using the 3 pin xlr jack if you wish the cable and ends are just expensive and cat5 is cheap and easy. I use a short cat5 with a coupler so you do not have to open the box to connect and disconnect the cables. You will not see a difference in operation either way.

grages,
why don't you come to the florida mini next weekend and you can play with one. I will have LYNX, the dmx convertor, and a robolight there.

I'm hoping to come to the mini, I just have not been able to comfirm I can get away. It would be a lot of fun and I would enjoy seeing robolight and the lynx as well as getting to chat with you.

The reason I ask about the 3 pin is my daughter is taking video production in high school and I imagine they use 3 or 5 pin and i thought it might be useful for her. I would have no problem using cat5 for my own purposes.

10-05-2007, 02:03 PM

actually I would check as I found that the local schools and the local theater club use Cat5. It has gained a lot of popularity for it cost and ease of use as in making the length you need easy.

Franchise

10-05-2007, 02:54 PM

I am new to all this so please forgive the dumb question. I am currently trying to put together a very modest system for this Halloween and Xmas with 2 or 3 4 pack DMX dimmers and the Enttec Open USB DMX dongle. Would I be able to just add the lynx to this sytem? I saw that you were recommending the Pro dongle, would it work with the one I have? And would it work daisy chained with the dimmers I already have?

10-05-2007, 06:30 PM

It would, I had some issues with the open and I understand from many threads on the internet I am not the only one with the same problems using the open. It is machine driven and some equipment/software seem to not be able to keep a steady enough output going to the open to make its output rock steady. I have an open and it will run the LYNX but it has mistakes in the stream timing from my equipment. The Pro does not relie on the computer to generate the DMX timming or data stream so the computer can not mess with the timming at all. This gives rock steady dmx streams. the computer simply outputs the value changes to the dongle. your computer could lock up and you will get perfect DMX with the last values it had. The pro also is much faster on refresh and so you can run lower event timming in vixen. I can only recommend and support the PRO due to the issues I had. Will the open work well for you? it may if your one of the ones whos equipment works well on the open. You will not run the speed that those with pro's will and you may have errors but give it a try. But please don't judge the LYNX based on the outcome if poor. Try it then with a pro. The difference in my case is large.

Hope this helps.

Josh

10-05-2007, 11:05 PM

can you explain this a little more
"Add on expansion to add 16 ch (up to 64 ch) - $60 - $70 complete "

also the enttec is the only dongle we can use at the moment due to vixen correct?

and one more question how do you get the cat5 cable from the dmx

10-06-2007, 12:12 AM

Sure!,

I originally attempted to build in the ability to daisy chain the system via a dedicated buss instead of via DMX. So I'm clear... The DMX would come in the first unit and it would be the master with all the communication and power systems. Then the raw data would be routed via a dedicated buss to up to 3 additional units which would only contain the pwm and SSR section on the board so these slaves would be cheaper. It turned out the distance between them was too limited to be useful as the speed I am clocking the pwm at to make it very smooth degraded to much at any useable distance. So this was abandoned and all units are identical as masters. In reality it was not going to make the cost change that much once I took into consideration what a higher volume of the master units would drop the cost.

So this does not apply any longer to it.

The only DMX dongles with vixen support are the Enttec USB Open and Enttec USB Pro. Of which I only recommend the PRO.

I simply bought a 5 pin XLR male connector designed to be soldered and did so with cat5 (about $3). Then this cable gets the first cat5 ends add to the other end and the rest of the cables are all straight though cat5 patch cables which I make up like normal to daisy from one device to the next.

The nice thing is it does not matter which box is where on the chain as they all see the full dmx stream but only pay attention to their channels. so lay it out in your yard to use the least cable and look nice.

Josh

10-06-2007, 11:22 AM

sounds good RJ, i guess on the cat5 i was looking for more of a wiring diagram but im sure it will be included in the instructions when people order.

Im interested in a unit, but not sure if i will be able to fund it and a DMX dongle

10-06-2007, 12:07 PM

Sorry,

Misunderstood..

The computer > dongle >>>> Lynx >>>> Lynx >>>> other dmx device >>>> Lynx >>>> etc

If you mean pin outs. DMX pin 2 to Cat5 pin 2 and DMX pin 3 to Cat5 pin 3. Thats it real simple.

Josh

10-06-2007, 04:23 PM

whats the expected date for the pay-by date? and how is it looking on numbers so far? would really like to get in on this order but might need to jump on the second one if there is going to be one

10-06-2007, 06:40 PM

3 requested so far.. The soonest would be two weeks after thanksgiving if we have 50 requested at that time and the lastest will be the end of January if we do not have 50 requested by then.

A second order? no way to know at this point. It would require that more than fifty units being requested causing us not to fill them all in the first order and then I would consider it.

davetv102

10-10-2007, 04:14 PM

Mark me down for 2.

Thanks

10-11-2007, 05:26 AM

Briant ask me to put him in for 6.

Thats 11, so we are already a quarter way there so it looks like we might be ordering long before the end of January.
RJ

robogeek

10-15-2007, 10:52 AM

RJ,

This is Tim from the Mini, I have a couple questions.

Is it possible to convert an LOR Sequence to a Vixen Sequence?
WIll it be possible to run the Linx with LOR Software?
Have you ever thought of creating your own DMX dongle?

if it will be possible to use my existing LOR sequences with the Lynx boards I am definitely interested in the project. and would sign up for at least 2 boards.

I am also interested in helping out with power line comms if you need any additional assistance.

Tim

10-15-2007, 06:57 PM

Tim.

I'm not sure if its possible to convert LOR seqences to vixen. I don't think it is. While it is not possible for me to test it the LOR DMX module should allow you to hook LYNX's to your current system and use the seqences you have. You would not need a dongle for this as the LOR dmx unit generates the DMX stream. You would continue to use your LOR software. Hope this helps you out. If I missed anything just ask. Glads to hear from you I was happy to met you Saturday.

robogeek

10-16-2007, 09:46 AM

Yeah since I have 2 LOR modules what my plan would be is to totally get rid of the LOR modules and go completely DC.

I would sell the LOR modules and therefore use a less expensive DMX dongle as opposed to the iDMX from LOR or whatever its called. But yes i know that is an option.

Looking at the iDMX, I can see it as severely limited because you can only Fade/Twinkle 32 of the 512 DMX channels the others can only respond to level changes.

Not before but probably after this season I plan on working on a file conversion utility that will convert between vixen and LOR sequence formats. It will probably be limited to converting 32 channels from LOR to Vixen at first but I would like it to be a universal translator. Depending on Dan's opinion it might just be a utility for my own purposes and not ever released ( I don't need any legal battles on my hands). I have already sent a message to Dan inquiring on the topic.

10-16-2007, 10:01 AM

Good luck Robo. Let me know how you make out that could very helpful to a lot of people.

Fubar

10-17-2007, 10:44 AM

This sounds like a great project RJ - question for you. Beyond christmas lights, I'm looking to use this to control LED lights for stage effects, etc. Am I correct in understanding that the Lynx will be a DMX controllable device that I can connect 3V-5V LED's and dim/sequence? I've read through this post and it you mention that the PIC is preprogrammed and I see mention of the Vixon software (which I know is for sequencing) - but I'm looking to control with a stanard DMX DJ software application which allows me to control DMX devices.

Also, I see metion of 16 channels and 512 channels - I take it the Lynx will be able to control 16 of the 512 avaiable DMX channels?

If so, I'm in for 3!

Thanks for all the effort.

-Fubar

10-17-2007, 12:53 PM

This might be possible but, and I hate to say this again. The designs I put up on DIY are not to be used in commercial applications. (stage shows) They are not for threaters or schools, etc. I am not saying they are safe or that you are even sane to use them at all. I am providing examples of how I did it. If I find them in use in other than personal use for individuals who built them to do holiday displays at home, I will no longer provide any technical information on anything public. I am sorry to be a pain about this but I refuse to create liabilty to me for something I do for fun and for infomation I give away. There are reasons you pay a lot of money for commercial dimmers.

grages

10-17-2007, 01:07 PM

Fubar

10-17-2007, 01:18 PM

Beyond christmas lights, I'm looking to use this to control LED lights for stage effects, etc.

The designs I put up on DIY are not to be used in commercial applications. (stage shows) They are not for threaters or schools, etc. I am not saying they are safe or that you are even sane to use them at all. I am providing examples of how I did it. If I find them in use in other than personal use for individuals who built them to do holiday displays at home, I will no longer provide any technical information on anything public. I am sorry to be a pain about this but I refuse to create liabilty to me for something I do for fun and for infomation I give away. There are reasons you pay a lot of money for commercial dimmers.

My choice of bad wording I suppsed, RJ. I completely understand and agree with your response. When I say "stage effects" - I'm referring to using them for simple light effects for karaoke / christmas / halloween parties I have in my converted barn. There's nothing commerical about my intended use, and I cretainly to recognize and repsect your position on this not being used in commercial applications. We simply have friend / family get togethers at my place due to its large capacity, and I like to entertain with music & light whenever & however possible.

Again, sorry for the misunderstanding RJ, and thanks again for your efforts. If you see no conflict with my intended use, I'd still be in for 3.

-Fubar

10-17-2007, 05:20 PM

Great, you scared me!

I'm not sure what lights your planning but Kiwi has one on the way to him right now to try out the low voltage end of the operation. We plan on adding a second power connector to allow seperate feed for the switched power from the digital power supply side. This should allow operation of what every DC power you wish with in limits. This has not been tested but I see no issue with it and Kiwi will be able to tell us more in the coming weeks. This will all be knows before anything is ordered and everyone will have all the info so you can backout if you do not see it meeting your needs.

10-17-2007, 05:26 PM

BTW,

At the mini it was brought up that the C9 replacement LED's are hard to dim well so I ran out and purchased a string from the local big lots for $9. Guess what.. No problem they dim on the LYNX as well as the mini's. I have a couple independant ones from CrazyLightLady that it doesn't like but it looks as if just having a couple is not enough load to operate correctly. A few string (I think 12 is that right ) works perfect.

10-17-2007, 05:32 PM

Fubar,
I'm sorry I missed one question looking back. Yes the LYNX is 16 channels. and you can have 512 channels on one universe so thery is you could have 32 LYNXs for 512 channels. You would most likely need a repeater in line to run that many.

Fubar

10-18-2007, 08:18 AM

I'm not sure what lights your planning but Kiwi has one on the way to him right now to try out the low voltage end of the operation. We plan on adding a second power connector to allow seperate feed for the switched power from the digital power supply side. This should allow operation of what every DC power you wish with in limits. This has not been tested but I see no issue with it and Kiwi will be able to tell us more in the coming weeks.

That's great to hear, RJ. I'll keep an eye on the forum to see Kiwi's results. I haven't purchased my LED's just yet, so I'm flexible and am anxious to see how Kiwi makes out.

mberghi

10-19-2007, 04:18 PM

grages

10-19-2007, 05:27 PM

Hi, I am new to the lighting controlling world and would like to have a fairly simple Christmas light display this winter. Do you think this would be a good option? I have some soldering experience, but do you have any soldering tips? Oh and how soon would the kit be shipped? Thanks,

Mike

Yes look in the Wiki for soldering tips or in the How To section.

http://christmasinshirley.com/wiki/index.php?title=Main_Page

under general tips and Information at the How to Solder link.

As to the Lynx DMX Dimmer I don't believe this kit was intended to be shipped in time for this year at all, I might be wrong.

grages

10-19-2007, 05:53 PM

This is a DIY type forum and most of the options are not kits but Bare boards, with that in mind you would need to determine the type of system you want and then ask in the appropriate forum if any are available. Then you would need to order parts and be prepared to solder. You can ask questions in the forums but some basic things you should decide are

1. dimming or non dimming (Type of Controller board )
2. # of channels (Relays that actually handle the on and off switching)
3. budget

64 channels will cost you $150 (Non dimming) to $200 (Dimming) not including the lights and cabling. ( Actually I'm a little on the low side I forgot to add SSR PCB's so add $32 to each.)

You might want to look at some of the videos in the showing off section to get some Ideas.

Non Dimming forum would be Grinch forum
Dimming would be Renard, FireGod, or DMX forum
and for everything except the DMX you would need to spend time in the SSR forum.

Download Vixen (sequencing software) and install it start learning it while your parts arrive.

10-19-2007, 07:58 PM

mberghi

The LYNX is not set for a release until after the start of the season so for this year you will need to look at other devices. Time is very short for starting out for this year so I would recommend you go the simplest you can which would be a grinch which is non dimming. Take a look at the Grinch forum and the first annocement that is labeled "New to the grinch start here"
RJ

mberghi

10-19-2007, 09:06 PM

Thanks for all the help, I am still interested in the Lynx though and I will check back to see the status Thanks,
Mike

10-22-2007, 11:20 AM

Well an update. We are up to 14 units so we have a way to go yet. I would be up for an order in 6-7 weeks if we could get the numbers. The manuals draft is done minus the techical appendix which covers how it works and is not needed to build it. Kiwi will be using it to build the low voltage test unit and giving me feedback. I believe it is a good assembly manual. This should make it easy for those of us who are new or inexperenced in building electronics to build a LYNX. It is a basic put this here and solder that kind of guide. It's 23 pages long and is 5500 words with maybe a dozen pictures, so its very detailed. No one should have any problems building this. I expect a novice to spend 5 hours building their first one. It takes me about 2 hours to assemble one. The pic is preprogrammed so you will not need a programmer. There is only one version of firmware so I can send them out ready to plug in. I hope to do my final test on my units this next weekend. I will be fusing one to over the rated limit and loading it to beyond the rating continuous for may hours. If it survives this last assalt It will meet my rating for my show and I will be done. Change the fuse back and put it to work. Wish me luck in my board abuse. LOL

10-28-2007, 01:03 AM

Nothing but good news. Kiwi has his running and is testing it out. He gave me some excellent suggestions of things to add to the manual and I have made the additions.
Kiwi said:
"The manual is very good, there are a couple of things you might like to add, just some notes telling newbies to trim the leads, and a note to check the transformer pins for any polystyrene, there was some stick to the pins."

And :
"and after a few hours guess what it works, i just tried 1 channel and it was blinky blinky, with no smoke"

He also said:
"but over all it was one of the easiest kits i have done, nicely worded manual and the parts just dropped into place."

So when he gets some more testing done I will make the changes to allow the low voltage operation to be nothing but an additional connector and jumper to select which mode it is to operate in.

I finished running the torture test and it is still around to dim another day. So I think we are there for 115 volts operation. I just want to get the Low voltage stuff right. I am very excited about how well it is working out.

Heres a video of the testing at max rated. I added some additional lights and pushed it past the max so I feel really confortable with it at 18 amps. I added some of my radio annoucements from the demented elf for entertianment since there was no sound to it. ENJOY LOL
http://media.putfile.com/load-test-of-lynx

Macrosill

10-28-2007, 08:00 AM

Cool test. 16 amps is alot. I am glad to hear it worked out well. Nice Voiceovers, I see Kevin has done a good job for you. I like the "Technical" one!

Once again a job well done RJ.

small

11-01-2007, 06:11 PM

I would be very interested in this coop. I already have a bit of DMX stuff that a use for discos etc.... Being able to use some of that with this for my Xmas display would be great. I would be after a master and at least 1 slave.

I am UK based, could this run at 240V?

11-01-2007, 07:08 PM

Are you powering 240 lights or feeding it 240 and running the lights on low voltage? We no longer have master and slave I made it all masters as the distance limit between them made that not very pratical but the plus was the cost difference was not very much.

greenmeanie

11-02-2007, 12:29 PM

So by being all masters is it possible to still daisy chain them together? If so how many can you connect together in a row?

Are you powering 240 lights or feeding it 240 and running the lights on low voltage? We no longer have master and slave I made it all masters as the distance limit between them made that not very pratical but the plus was the cost difference was not very much.

11-02-2007, 04:52 PM

The rs 485 spec says 32 of them which would be 512 channels which is the max for one DMX dongle (universe). I would believe you might need a repeater for all 32 of them but maybe not.

small

11-02-2007, 05:44 PM

Are you powering 240 lights or feeding it 240 and running the lights on low voltage?

To be honest, not thought about it in that much detail. I would have to feed it 240V, I am going to see what I can find light wise.

11-02-2007, 05:51 PM

KIWICHRISTMAS is testing one of them for me in New Zealand powering the board with 240 and feeding in 25 volts ac to run the lights on. It is possible to use it with 240 lights but it has not been tested on it yet. I believe it would work well with 240 lights.

greenmeanie

11-06-2007, 12:19 PM

Put me in for 1 to check it out.

small

11-09-2007, 04:44 PM

Put me down for 3. Let's hope we get the numbers

scharbon

11-11-2007, 12:38 PM

I'm in for four of them RJ. Looks great - I can't wait to add dimming for next year. :D

Steve

11-11-2007, 01:59 PM

Great almost half way there. :D

11-12-2007, 02:37 AM

I have recieved so many PM's and Emails with such good questions I thought I might make a post as kind of a FAQ on the Lynx. I rephrase a few of them slightly so I would not need the whole meassge for you to understand the content. I did ask those of who I posted their questions. I got this funny remark back from one.

"Yes you can post the questions. I went direct to you because I didn't want to seem like a moron in front of 400 people (don't mind looking stupid in front of one person though!!)" LOL too funny!

So here it is :

(Q) Where does the Lynx fit into all the stuff we have here?
(A) The Lynx is just another option in the arsonal of equipment we have available to us now. It is another Dimmer using the industry standard DMX as its communication protocol So it works with other devices like Snow/Fog machines and other lighting devices available. The main reason its DMX is DMX has a lot of good properties like high channel count on one port(512), and low event timings(30ms) at that count, as well as being very tolerant.

(Q) I have invested lots of money in the 595/Grinch/SSR set up and would hate to trash that so I can go to your Lynx system. Will Vixen be able to handle my 595 set up and DMX at the same time? I want to add dimming to my set up for next year, but not at the cost of losing my on/off
(A) I understand this myself as my show this year has two grinches(128) and 4 Lynx's(64 channels). You can run the grinches from your printer port and also run lynx at the same time from vixen. this requires you to simply run two cables from the computer and to setup both plug ins in vixen telling it which channels are on which plug in. On the other hand you could do as I did and use the convertor I created to run grinches from DMX. the parts are like $22 and the board if we have some made would run maybe $10 or less. This lets you use one plug in and one cable from the computer. Each converter can operate two grinches (128 channels) and it is also a power supply for them so you do not need to have a seperate power supply to power the grinches.

(Q) Does the DMX converter for the Grinch preclude the need for line drivers if I want to field my grinches away from the CPU?
(A) The converter allows your grinches to be upto 1000 ft from the CPU.

(Q) However does it support dimming?
(A) No it simply allows the grinch to be run on DMX

(Q) Also, do you think there may be a coop for the Grinch converter?
(A) Up until a few days ago I had not been asked anything about the converters so I had not intended to but in the last few days you are the third so if 5 or more people had a need I would place a board order and provide the parts list and hex files to program them.

(Q) Are splitters necessary if I want to chain more than two Lynx together (exceed 32 channels)? If so, do you think you might post a wiki or develop some pcb's for making your own splitters?
(A) This will only become required when you start talking about having a large device count near or over 32 devices on the same dongle (universe) With just LYNX this is not likely as 32 Lynx is the 512 channels limit. They can be made very cheaply when we need them as in under $10 so don't worry about that being an issue the design is simple it a couple of chips hooked together.

(Q) I assume the DMX Dongle runs off of the USB. Is that correct?
(A) Yes the Enttec DMX pro which I recommend runs off the usb port.

(Q) Last I checked, the wiki mentioned the line terminator and made a passing comment on how to make them. Do you think it would be worth it to make a detailed wiki for 3 and 5 line terminators?
(A) This is not a concern as most commercial and all of my dmx equipment has built in termination on board. you simple set the jumper on the last unit on the line and you are done.

(Q) I guess my real question now comes down to how many coops do you think you would run in a year?
(A) As long as the orders where keep small enought to prevent it from being a problem but large enough to keep the cost down I would do more if enough people wanted it.

(Q) How do you know it will work ok?
(A) Well for 115 Vac it has been under constant testing since the first prototype was finished. I have thrown everything I can at it. I am totally confident in it on 115 vac (US) operation. But still we want real world testing so I am holding off on ordering anything until it has been through two weeks of real christmas shows before I'm ready. Then the other side is Kiwi is testing it on low voltage down under (New Zealand) where it will be tested in his show. If both of these pass without any incident then I am ready to order so if you put in your intention to order and there is a problem you are out nothing. but if all goes well and we can get 50 units for order we will make the order. If we can't get 50 I will price it out at the end of january and provide the cost. If you want to drop out you can at anytime up to the order. As no one will be allowed to send money until the order is ready to be placed. Worst case I simply order 10 more for myself and it cost me maybe $35 more per. The reality of it is that the coop is a lot of work to save $350 so if that was my incentive I would simply order them and pay the difference.

(Q) You might want to make your own category (like the Grinch or Firegod) there will be a lot of interest in this once it starts.
(A) I have spoken to the admin and once I have my two weeks of full blown in the yard testing over and the low voltage testing is done so we can make the order we will.

I hope this helps someone and was worth the time it took for me to assemble.
Thank You

Editied to add addtional question asked a number of times but forgot by me.

ibby

11-16-2007, 12:07 PM

I would like try out one of those as well

11-16-2007, 07:44 PM

The more the merrier. We are working on getting 50 so that gets us one more closer. I start setup tommorrow and I am very excited to see all this stuff in the yard doing it's thing.

11-20-2007, 10:56 PM

First partial test with everything looks good. Kiwi says the Lynx is working well on low voltage including led's so I am very happy. heres a little sample of my show not yet complete. The Lynxs are running the Mega Tree and some other items. Then Grinches (2) on a DMX converters run everything else. Have a lot to finish up tommorrow including about 60 channels of cat5 to run. Kiwi got the proto DMX converter I sent him. I was excited to read the subject of his PM telling me this. It read "Lynx is perfect, Board Arrived today"

Heres the little video snip of the test :

http://media.putfile.com/show-test

petefats

11-25-2007, 02:12 AM

put me in for 4.

11-25-2007, 12:33 PM

Thanks, We're getting there slowly but steady. I have had the show going since thanksgiving and have had zero problems so far. Even Vixen is behaving perfect as expected. I haven't touched anything since the first night except to add the Robo Spot. Lights and music starts at 6:00 PM and first show runs at 7:00. then every 30 mins like a swiss watch so far. Good Job KC. For those that were asking about the case being weather tight We have had two florida rainstorms. (for those not familar with florida we have tropical Down pours with a couple inches an hour) and I have had no issues with water getting in I just have the cases screwed to some stakes stuck in the ground under the mega tree in the open with the cables exits down. Even my two Ledtriks are doing great so far.
I got a new video camera so I will be putting together some better video soon. The computer I do video editing on is at my parents running the show.

Heres a pic of Kiwi's Lynx on low voltage hook to his tree. Yes he put the cover on upside down but he fixed it.
http://www.putfile.com/pic.php?img=7141410

And his test video.
http://media.putfile.com/for-RJ

Macrosill

11-25-2007, 02:39 PM

RJ,
I know Kiwi is from down under but he could atleast put the Lynx cover on the right way! LOL

11-25-2007, 04:59 PM

It was dark he said and he didn't realize it till here snapoed the flash photo of it. I forgive him cause hes a good guy and he is having to do it all upside. :lol:

11-26-2007, 03:25 AM

Heres the whole show.
http://media.putfile.com/LightShow1

TheBigLog

11-29-2007, 02:02 PM

Put me in for 1.

How many does that make it? :D

11-29-2007, 05:22 PM

Have to count them up when I get a minute but I think we need about 18 more. I have a week on the show and all is working perfect so I think if we can get the numbers lets order. I asked kiwi and he hadn't had any problems with the low voltage setup either so I think we are ready to go ahead with the Coop.

stephenwolf

12-01-2007, 12:56 PM

I am interested in 2

I am seeing the Enttec DMX PRO on ebay for as low as $140 and as high as $460; what is the average price we should be looking for and are there any other sites that sell it at a good price?

12-01-2007, 01:01 PM

I paid $140 for one from ebay. Should be able to find them new for that all day long.

duk

12-03-2007, 04:38 AM

Hi, new guy here. I would be interested in 2 of these. I assume delivery to Australia is OK? Do I PM or email RJ with my details?

I have a few newby questions, should I ask them here or is their a more appropriate section?

12-04-2007, 11:46 PM

Feel free to ask away or if you want PM me either is fine.

12-04-2007, 11:51 PM

If anyone wants to look at the draft of the assembly manual just pm me with you email address for it as it's a large document. It will let you see whats involved in building one. It's as simple as DIY gets.

It will be two weeks of shows in a couple of days and short of changing a few bulbs out, there has been zero problems with any of the equipment(ledtriks, robos. lynx, grinches,dmx converters) so I feel really good about that. :D

We had some rain last week but it has been dry a few days here so dad needed to water there yard. I told him to go ahead. He calls me at work and says hes worried about two of the lynxs because the sprinkler head is next to them and it is power washing the units under pressure and should he turn them off. I told him let them rip we need to know if the cases are really weather resistant. He just knew the water was runing them but we had no problems and I found no hint of water in them so as outlined before I think they are fairly weather resistant. I'm no snow expert for reasons you should understand (Florida isn't known for its snow) but I would think water under pressure would get in easier than snow?

Ronp

12-05-2007, 05:31 PM

When people think snow they think white fluffy stuff.
Ok.. then the next day the sun hits it and begins to melt 1 inch of snow
Is now ¼ in snow all the water goes to the bottom and then refreezes.
When that happens the water gets in the seems/joints freezes that opens the
once water tight seal .the next day the snow melts again never evenly
This could cause water to enter through a half open seal.
This is just part of the New England weather .The
of the white fluffy snow gets into the smallest crack and in a month we have holes in all
roads that looked new before winter.

The thawing and refreezing can happen in minutes here.

Just some totally useless info
8)

12-05-2007, 07:02 PM

Not useless at all, as I said me with my extensive snow experience LOL would of course already know this... LOL

But in reality I think the cases are as weather resistant as you could expect with out actual gasket sealed boxs with no exits for cables. They are pretty nice enclosures.

jwells

12-05-2007, 08:25 PM

RJ put me down for at least 2 possibly more

12-06-2007, 07:50 AM

We need 12 more min but that would include mine to make the 50 so thats only if everyone that has put in is still in. will accept up to 20 more for anyone wanting in. I will stop it at 50 units and start the dealing with suppliers to get a locked in price and what the shipping is and such so I can then give everyone a exact price minus shipping to them. If you want in this is a good time to chime in as there will be no extra's ordered. I have emailed the manual to the three who pm'ed me so you should have it.

RJ

DILA

12-06-2007, 04:33 PM

If you are going to go, go big. 128 channels sounds like a good start so I'll take 8 units. If you need any kind of deposit please PM me.

thanks

Bob

stephenwolf

12-06-2007, 05:31 PM

yah, I am with ya on that, but I am not going to go as big, not at first anyway. :-)

I was down for 2 but I am going to step up to 4, so there: half of a big.

BSummitt

12-06-2007, 10:31 PM

I think your at 50, but I would like 2.

12-07-2007, 08:08 AM

Actual since the plan was to not count mine as part of the fifty as a buffer agianst anyone dropping out putting us under the number needed. I have room for around 6 more units.

12-07-2007, 08:08 AM

Also I believe I got everyone the info they asked for at this point if anyone did not get something Please let me know. Thanks

12-07-2007, 09:31 AM

There has been a Lynx forum opened for any questions or such. the Coop will stay here and I will be having this thread locked in a few days to start a new one just to clean up the Coop information and who and how many.

ikabod

12-07-2007, 01:57 PM

Can you pls. include me on the list, i will need 1. Thanks,

sfour

12-07-2007, 02:42 PM

I would like 4 -- If you did not reach quota yet.

12-07-2007, 02:53 PM

We are there minus 1 so if anyone wants one or two we will do it but only 2 more max I don't want to make the coop so difficult to fulfill I can't get it out quickly to you once the stuff's here. I also have a full two weeks on my show as of last night so its time to start putting the deal together with the suppliers.

I will be creating a new thread with names, numbers, and status in this forum this weekend. No payments to me please as I want to get the deal made and have a exact price for everyone and be ready to place the order before any money moves.

Thanks
RJ

sfour

12-07-2007, 05:24 PM

RJ

I am not sure if your post was an answer to my request for 4 units, or just a general post to everyone. I will look for your new thread to see if I am included. If you only have room for 1 or 2 that's fine. I am new to this -- I just created an account today so that I could get in on the coop, but I have been reading the post for a while trying to decide how to do this.

Anyway - I'll look for the new thread and go from there.

12-07-2007, 05:55 PM

No sir you are in my friend I just mean we can handle one or two more including you if anyone else wants to kick in.

Makeemdance

12-07-2007, 09:21 PM

Put me down for 1 if there is any room left.

Matt

12-07-2007, 09:26 PM

You are the final unit. We have our limit. I will get the new thread started with a list.