What is DMX and how does it work?

DMX (Digital Multiplex, formally DMX512) is the standard digital communication protocol used to control stage lighting and effects. Defined by USITT in 1986, it allows a lighting console (the controller) to send digital signals to fixtures through a single data cable, controlling functions like dimmer level, color, pan, tilt, gobo selection, zoom, and more.

Each DMX "universe" can control up to 512 individual channels. Each fixture uses a set number of channels depending on its complexity. A simple LED PAR might use 4-6 channels (red, green, blue, white, dimmer, strobe). A full-featured moving light can use 30-50+ channels. You assign each fixture a starting "DMX address" so the console knows which channels control which fixture. Fixtures are connected in a daisy chain using 5-pin or 3-pin XLR DMX cables.