DMX controller 8 ports RDM Art-Net sACN DIN rail - MADRIX MAD-IA-HW-001033

MADRIX STELLA 8 is an 8-port DMX controller with RDM support, designed for complete, high-performance DMX control in professional lighting installations. It combines controller, booster, merger and splitter functions in one unit, providing integration options for different contexts and handling high bandwidths in professional lighting networks. It can be used by installers and service providers in multimedia classrooms, theme parks, clubs, theatres, multipurpose halls and architectural installations. The MADRIX philosophy encourages using STELLA 8 beyond the limited view of a system dedicated only to lighting displays: the device is designed as an integral part of a wider system.

The front panel provides a USB port that also powers the device, status LEDs for quickly checking overall operation and dedicated indicators for monitoring the status of each output port. The 8 physical DMX ports are fully configurable, with each port able to operate as an input, output or merge of 2 signals. This allows the distribution of DMX universes to be adapted to the installation. A USB-C port on the bottom makes connection easier when STELLA 8 is mounted on a DIN rail, while a reset button provides immediate recovery.

The system supports Art-Net and Streaming ACN (sACN) in both unicast and multicast modes and provides bidirectional conversion between DMX and network protocols. Real-time merging combines up to 8 sources without delay; HTP/LTP modes can be configured automatically or manually. Network ports operate at 1 Gbit/s and the device can also be powered through PoE. Dual power supplies provide redundancy and operational continuity, while integrated backup strategies improve security in more complex installations.

The integrated web interface simplifies configuration through a standard browser and allows network settings, channel mapping, patterns and snapshots to be managed. The source priority system establishes hierarchies between Art-Net, sACN and other operating modes. DMX Watcher monitors the DMX parameters passing through the unit in real time. STELLA 8 can also function as a protocol converter with RTM compatibility. Surge protection, firmware updates and a dual bootloader complete the reliability and security functions.

Integration with MADRIX RADAR automatically unlocks all RDM devices connected to STELLA 8 in the software. The ANSI E1.20 and E1.37-1 specifications become available through Art-Net. Packet Multitasking allows RDM and Art-Net to be sent and received simultaneously, maintaining smooth operation even in real time.

Network protocols include Art-Net I, II, 3 and 4, including ArtSync, as well as streaming ACN (sACN / ANSI E1.31). Other protocols are RDM (DMX512 Remote Device Management and Art-Net ArtRdm) and syslog. In its RDM role, STELLA 8 transmits commands and requests to RDM responders and receives them back, operating as an Art-Net Node and RDM controller. A maximum of 170 RDM responders can be discovered per port. DMX512 handling comprises 8 x 512 DMX channels configured as input and/or output.

The 8 ports are provided through 8 x 3-pin pluggable screw terminals. Ethernet connectivity includes 2 RJ45 ports with Auto MDI-X, daisy-chain support, 10/100/1000 MBit/s operation equal to 1 GBit/s, and network over USB through Virtual Link. The Ethernet switch uses a lookup table, or ALU, for 4096 unicast MAC addresses. There are 2 USB ports supporting USB 1.1 and USB 2.0, with type-C female sockets. Indicators comprise 12 status LEDs plus 4 network status LEDs.

The non-conductive case has a V-0 flammability rating according to the UL94 test method and is designed for 35 mm DIN rails or wall mounting. Power can be supplied at 5–24 V DC through a 2-pin pluggable screw terminal with power daisy-chain, including 1 IN connection and 1 THRU connection. Additional options are 5 V USB through 2 USB-C ports and PoE according to 802.3af-2003 through 1 Ethernet port on the right. Power consumption during normal operation is ≤ 5 W, equal to 1000 mA, with a maximum 1000 mA fuse. The specified heat output is approximately 17 BTU/h.

The specified temperature range is -10 to 70 °C during operation and -20 to 85 °C for the other listed range. Dimensions, given as length x width x height, are 86 x 156.3 x 31.79 mm. The device weighs 204 g, or 0.45 lb, and weighs 258 g including the screw terminals and wall mounts.