Ion Backup Question

Hello,

For an upcoming project, I am planning on bringing in two Ions and running them in a primary/backup setup. The space I'm in has only hardwired DMX (and Net1, but that doesn't help matters). My question is -- even if I set up one as primary and the other as backup, will I need a DMX node in place?

As I see it, if the primary fails and that has the DMX (XLR) cable plugged into it, then the backup can certainly take over, but I'd have to unplug my 5-pin XLR and plug it into the backup. Or vice-versa. So, if I'm piecing this together correctly, the Primary/Backup relationship is primarily for the Net3 network, containing possible failures to one device, instead of bringing down the lighting system because of control signal loss.

Anything I'm missing? Should I start looking for a Net3 DMX node? If I hooked the DMX up to the backup console, would it make any difference? (I wouldn't think so...)

Thanks!

luke.delwiche over 15 years ago

You are correct - to have backup with automatic switch-over, you'd need a Net2 or Net3 node/gateway. Without this, you'd have to manually switch over DMX in the event of the primary failing. The two Ion desks would also have to be plugged together via a network switch.

The other option would be a DMX merger that receives DMX from both devices and merges it. This device, however, will likely be as expensive as a Net3 Gateway.

-luke-
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jeff_a_davis over 15 years ago

In my touring Rig that has a primary and backup, the main console used is the 'backup' so that if that one goes out (assuming the one being used would be more likely to?) then the console with the outputs enabled is still available. The above answer is right though, our system ALSO uses a gateway (auto switching in mind, but our show needs 4 dmx universe outputs.)

Just mentioning, in case you don't spring for the node.

-J
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