Blizzard Lighting SnowBank (Rev A) - Manual (Page 7)

Page 7
SnowBank User Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2012 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
3. SETUP
Fuse Replacement
CAUTION! The SnowBank™ utilizes a high-output switch-mode power
supply with an internal fuse. Under normal operating conditions, the
fuse should not require replacement. The fuse is field replaceable,
however it is an advanced procedure suited to qualified individuals.
Should your SnowBank™ fuse require replacement, please contact
Blizzard Lighting for instructions, or to return your unit for service.
Connecting A Bunch of SnowBank™ Fixtures
You will need a serial data link to run light shows using a DMX-512
controller or to run shows on two or more fixtures set to sync in
master/slave operating mode. The combined number of channels
required by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number
of fixtures the data link can support.
Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line.
Also, connecting more than 32 fixtures on one serial data link without
the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration
of the digital DMX signal.
The maximum recommended cable-run distance is 500 meters (1640
ft). The maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data
link is 32 fixtures.
Data/DMX Cabling
To link fixtures together you’ll need data cables. You should use data-
grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to
electromagnetic interference.
For instance, Belden© 9841 meets the specifications for EIA RS-
485 applications. Standard microphone cables will “probably” be
OK, but note that they cannot transmit DMX data as reliably over
long distances. In any event, the cable should have the following
characteristics:
2-conductor twisted pair plus a shield
Maximum capacitance between conductors – 30 pF/ft.
Maximum capacitance between conductor & shield – 55 pF/ft.
Maximum resistance of 20 ohms / 1000 ft.
Nominal impedance 100 – 140 ohms