Usb to DMX-RDM Interface

Bieing a lighting technician I needed a usb to dmx interface but the commercially available ones are just too expensive so I decided to build my own.

• Parts:
• FTDI usb to RS485 module http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/USB-to-RS485-TTL-Serial-...
• Neutrik panel mount XLR 3 pin http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Neutrik-3Way-Panel-Mount...
• hook up wire
• a project enclosure of your choice (link to the one i used http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/hammond-1455c801-alumin...)

tools:

• soldering iron and solder
• hot glue gun
• wire stripper and pliers
• drill and drill set

1. Cut a hole big enough for the xlr on one side of the enclosure also drill 2 holes lining up with the xlr's screw holes.
2. Cut a square hole that the usb socket fits through on the other side of the enclosure.
3. hot glue the usb to RS485 adapters usb socket into the square hole as shown in the image (ignore the three led's).
4. if you are using a metal case make shure to hot glue a piece of plastic to the bottom of the usb to RS485 module to avoid short circuits.
5. screw the xlr to the case.

you will need to solder 3 wires to the xlr's pins.

the wires are connected as shown in the images.

you can now assemble the enclosure .

IMPROVEMENTS To Be Made

• add isolation.
• make the hardware more compatible with dmx input (right now dmx input isn't really supported by the hardware).