The AutoBahn™ 8 is a versatile and high-performance solution for managing DMX and Art-Net signals, especially in scenarios that involve multiple LED fixtures or video mapping setups, where thousands of DMX channels are often required. Ensuring fast DMX response and efficient network load management is critical in these situations, and the AutoBahn™ 8 delivers both. It not only provides near-instantaneous response but also reduces network load, enabling users to expand the number of DMX universes and place them remotely on any TCP/IP Ethernet network. Beyond this, the device can function as a DMX merger, DMX splitter, or backup unit, making it a comprehensive tool for complex lighting control setups.
The device is equipped with a single RJ45 Neutrik™ EtherCON® 10/100M Ethernet LAN port featuring auto MDI/MDI-X, which automatically recognizes cable type and eliminates the need for separate MDI and MDI-X ports, selector switches, or special crossover cables. Additionally, it offers two DMX inputs that can be configured as either active “input” or “disabled.” Each input can be assigned to a specific DMX universe within the range of 0.0 to F.F. When a port is set as “input,” it can operate in either “normal” or “backup” mode. In normal mode, the AutoBahn™ 8 continuously sends data received from the DMX input port to the corresponding network universe, regardless of other data activity. In backup mode, however, the input port only transmits data when the network universe is not receiving any other active data, providing reliable redundancy in critical lighting setups.
The AutoBahn™ 8 offers eight photoelectrically isolated DMX outputs, each of which can be configured in one of four modes. The “Zero” mode sends a DMX test signal with all channels at 0%, while “Single” outputs the DMX values of the selected universe. The “Latest Takes Precedence” (LTP) mode outputs the latest channel activity between two selected universes, and “Highest Takes Precedence” (HTP) mode merges two DMX universes, comparing the principal and secondary inputs and sending the higher value to the network. Both LTP and HTP modes allow universes to be set within the range of 0.0 to F.F, giving users flexible options for managing complex signal routing.
The device also includes five quick-setup user presets along with a factory restore option, simplifying the configuration process and eliminating the need to reconfigure settings when switching between modes. The 4-button LCD menu provides an intuitive interface to set the AutoBahn™ 8 into various operational modes such as “2 In 1 Backup Mode,” “2 In 1 HTP Mode,” “2 In 1 LTP Mode,” “DMX Splitter 1-4 Mode,” or “Isolated Mode.” Additional features include manual IP address configuration, LCD status displays for each DMX input/output, and Ethernet LED indicators, making the device both powerful and user-friendly for professional lighting control applications.
Overall, the AutoBahn™ 8 supports standard DMX-512 and Art-Net protocols, enabling bilateral signal conversion and full compatibility with a wide range of lighting and network systems. Its combination of high-speed performance, flexible input/output options, and advanced management features make it an essential tool for demanding LED and video-mapped environments.
https://www.blizzardpro.com/products/autobahn-8
