ANSI E1.20 (RDM) is an extension to DMX512 that allows for bi-directional communication on the primary pair of a DMX512 link. This allows for a controller or piece of test equipment to intelligently discover other RDM-enabled devices on the link such as moving lights or dimmer racks and manage them remotely. This includes the ability to remotely set the DMX512 Starting Address, querying the devices for Error or Status Messages, and access to most any configuration setting that would normally be accomplished from the front panel of the device itself.
RDM can operate in conjunction with both newer RDM devices as well as any legacy DMX512 products on the same data link without any performance impact. Since RDM operates on the primary pair of the DMX512 link, the only infrastructure upgrade required for RDM is upgrading existing Data Splitters to bi-directional models that support RDM.
Co-chair of the ESTA Control Protocols Working Group, Steve Terry comments: ''The true power of RDM will become evident in hybrid systems that combine ACN (E.1.17 Architecture for Control Networks) and RDM. The DMX512/RDM link is the ideal bi-directional solution to handle the 'last mile,' daisy-chained link between network gateways and lightweight equipment throughout the rig, while ACN provides the scaleability and power of an advanced network protocol."
Scott Blair, chair for the RDM Task Group, adds: ''It's incredibly exciting to see all the new technology that this protocol is going to enable. RDM being released marks the most significant advancement for our industry since DMX512 was first released and will complement the soon to be released ACN protocol well.''
More information about joining the working groups in ESTA's Technical Standards Program is available at http://www.esta.org/tsp/working_groups.
(Lee Baldock)
