Showtime Central and Multiple Controllers

[ledaekim]

Just getting started with shows this year, and came across this tidbit in one of the instruction/setup files...

5.  ShowTime Central is powered from the nearest Light-O-Rama controller.  Put that controller on an external timer if you want your shows to start/stop at a fixed time.  When the timer turns on it will power the light controller and that will then power the ShowTime Central.  If you have multiple controllers (6 and 7 in the above diagram) then a special data cable is needed between the first and second controller.  This special cable only passes the data and not the power from other controllers.  For the DIY: the special cable only uses the center wire pair (pins 4-5).

Standard ethernet cable between controller 1 and the Showtime Central unit, and then a SPECIAL cable between the other controllers utilizing only pins 4-5 ... So, the included ethernet cables should not be used for those extra controllers? Or am I just overthinking this.  Thanks!!!

 

-Mike

Edited April 9, 2016 by ledaekim

[Don]

12 minutes ago, ledaekim said:

then a special data cable is needed between the first and second controller. 

The only place you need that cable is between the first and second control. Regular cables every where else.

[ledaekim]

24 minutes ago, Don said:

The only place you need that cable is between the first and second control. Regular cables every where else.

Easy enough, time to break out the crimp tool!!   Thanks for the clarification. 

[EmmienLightFan]

LOR should probably start selling these (I don't think they do already).

 

Some people don't want to have to solder/cut cables.

 

 

The alternative would be to put a timer on every one of your controllers, or connect them all into one.