DMX controllers are fully programmable and come in hardware-based and software-based versions. Although DMX fixtures can operate on their own, the controllers allow the user to dictate manually or automatically what each fixture does and when it happens.
DMX works by assigning an "address" to each lighting fixture. The controller sends information to each address, including on/off signals as well as power levels (for dimming purposes) from 1 percent to 100 percent. A single DMX system can handle up to 512 addresses.
DMX components include controllers, lights, and dimmer packs that connect non-DMX lights. DMX connection cables for DJ and club systems contain three-wire connectors, while cables for large theatrical and concert use contain five-wire connectors.
DMX controllers, dimmer packs and fixtures connect to one another in a daisy-chain fashion. The controller sits first in line, with other components following in succession. Switches on the fixtures or dimmer packs set the individual DMX addresses for each fixture, so you can connect the fixtures in any order.
Users configure DMX addressing with a binary system, which requires a chart to learn. DMX controllers recognize but do set or distribute the address information coming from switch settings on fixtures or dimmer packs.