ROCKSTRIP 252: How To Set Up w/ A DMX Controller

The Rockville Rockstrip 252 is a versatile lighting solution that pairs perfectly with a DMX controller for live performances, stage productions, and more. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up your Rockstrip 252 with a DMX controller, including both wired and wireless configurations.

Setting Up the DMX Connection

1. Connecting Your DMX Cable

1. Prepare Your DMX Cable:
   • Plug the male end of the DMX cable into the DMX OUT port on your controller.
   • Plug the other end into the DMX IN port on your Rockstrip 252.
2. Daisy-Chaining Multiple Lights:
   • Take another DMX cable.
   • Plug the male end into the DMX OUT port of the first light.
   • Connect the other end to the DMX IN port of the next light.
   • Repeat for additional lights.

Configuring the Rockstrip 252 Settings

2. Setting the DMX Channel Mode

The Rockstrip 252 offers multiple channel modes (3, 4, 7, 24, and 28 channels). Each mode determines the level of control you have over the light.

1. Access the Channel Menu:
   • Use the menu on the light to navigate to the channel mode.
   • Press Enter to select the channel menu.
2. Choose a Channel Mode:
   • Use the up button to scroll through options.
   • Select 7-Channel Mode (a balance of basic and advanced controls for this tutorial).
   • Press Enter to save your choice.

3. Setting the DMX Address

Each light requires a unique DMX address to respond to controller commands.

1. Access the DMX Address Menu:
   • Use the Menu button to find the DMX Address Mode.
   • Press Enter to select.
2. Set the Address:
   • Use the up/down buttons to select your desired address (e.g., A001).
   • Press Enter to save.

Using the DMX Controller

4. Testing the 7-Channel Mode

1. Activate Scanner 1 on your DMX controller to begin controlling the light.
2. Control LEDs with Faders:
   • Fader 1: Adjust Red LED.
   • Fader 2: Adjust Green LED.
   • Fader 3: Adjust Blue LED.
   • Fader 4: Master Dimmer (brightness).
3. Customize Colors:
   • Use a combination of faders to create custom colors.
4. Special Effects with Faders:
   • Fader 5: Control the speed of chase modes.
   • Fader 6: Activate chase modes (different effects depending on the fader's value).
   • Fader 7: Switch between sound modes or enable chases.

Setting Up Wireless DMX

5. Connecting the Wireless Receiver

1. Prepare the Wireless Controller:
   • Turn on the Wireless DMX feature on your controller.
   • Set a color-coded signal by pressing the button beneath the LED (e.g., Blue).
2. Match the Wireless Receiver:
   • Turn on the receiver with a small tool like a screwdriver.
   • Match the receiver’s color signal to the controller (e.g., Blue).
   • Ensure the controller and receiver LEDs flash green (communication indicator).
3. Connect the Receiver to the Light:
   • Plug the receiver into the DMX IN port on your light.
   • Set the light’s DMX channel and address.

6. Expanding with More Lights:

• For additional lights, either:
  • Use more wireless receivers for each light, or
  • Daisy-chain additional lights using DMX cables from the first wireless-connected light.

Quick Tips

• Refer to the DMX guide if you’re unsure about fader functions in any channel mode.
• Wireless setups are perfect for reducing cable clutter and increasing flexibility in your lighting arrangement.s