DiyLightAnimation

Hardware => Lynx Wireless DMX => Topic started by: RJ on December 28, 2009,

Title: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 28, 2009,

Thought some of you might be interested in the progress ob the Wireless version 2.

I attached a image of the pcb layout that replaces both the TX (transmitter) and RX (standalone receiver). This board does both and once built a single jumper makes it either a TX or an RX. The firmware is still beta but it has code for both jobs so you do not reflash the pic you just change the jumper and power it up.

It uses the newer RF module and uses the onboard Antenna. The output is over double what we had on the Ver 1 tx and the rx has a preamp to boost on the receive side also. This should increase range using the built on antenna. the amp is built on to the Rf module and tuned with the onboard antenna.

What is the benfit to the changes?

1 - Less costly to build.
2 - Easier to build since you do not need to cut any tiny RF modules to modify them. You also do not have any small surface mount amp to solder.
3 - Also added a red power Led and a Green Receive / Transmit Led to the system.  Shows one or the other depending on the TX / RX jumper.

The proto pcbs are ordered and should be here in a week or so for testing and working out the bugs of the firmware. Then beta for them. The EX / RX will have a few slight changes to it also to add the LEDS.

First question everyone wants to know is if they are capatible with the Ver 1 units. Yes! worst case you will have to reflash the ver 1 with updated firmware and may not even need to do this.

RJ 

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on December 28, 2009,

Looks Good.

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: solidmodeler on December 28, 2009,

Your always making it better for the rest of us with great progress reports.

Thanks for the hard work!

Michael

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: castortiu on December 28, 2009,

May be it is a dumb comment.

I see the square pads where the RF module is attached covered with solder mask, is that intentional made? or am I missing something?
If it is not then when you order the prototype you will have to sand the pads to solder the module.

Gus.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: vairmoose on December 28, 2009,

I see the external antenna is gone...   definite improvement in prduceability!!!!!!  
(and cost reduction)..

Excelent!!!!!

One question...   can the new Rx module be used on the ver 1 boards?

Larry

Update:  i found the data sheets for the 'old' and 'new'  rx unit..  there is enough difference in width to preclude using the new unit on the version 1 board.   new board necessary..    LGM

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 28, 2009,

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May be it is a dumb comment.

I see the square pads where the RF module is attached covered with solder mask, is that intentional made? or am I missing something?
If it is not then when you order the prototype you will have to sand the pads to solder the module.

Gus.

No thats just the color settings playing with it making it look that way. They do not have solder mask over them.  But it is not a dumb comment.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 28, 2009,

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I see the external antenna is gone...   definite improvement in prduceability!!!!!!  
(and cost reduction)..

Excelent!!!!!

One question...   can the new Rx module be used on the ver 1 boards?

Larry

If you mean RF modules them no they are different. I guess they needed room for the amp. Also the antenna is different so cant cut and fit it the same. The original Rf module part number is still avaliable.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: David_AVD on December 28, 2009,

RJ, which RF transceiver module did you settle on?

I ask as I've used the Aurel units before but had some issues IIRC.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 28, 2009,

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RJ, which RF transceiver module did you settle on?

I ask as I've used the Aurel units before but had some issues IIRC.

David,


 I am sending you a PM with the information.

 
RJ       

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: David_AVD on December 28, 2009,

Thank you.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: deplanche on December 29, 2009,

If this can be both a TX and RX, should the RJ45 Jack location be labelled as "DMX" or "DMX IN/OUT" rather than just "DMX IN"?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: austindave on December 29, 2009,

Would it make sense to provide an optional connector for an external, possibly remote, high-gain antenna (for transmit)? Or is that impractical / unnecessary?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Ron on December 29, 2009,

Looks good.

I see what you were talking about regarding the cutout for the antenna now.

I also like that the power and RJ45 are opposite the antenna now.  That should make orientation and mounting easier.

Ron

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on December 29, 2009,

RJ,

You noted the EX/RX was going to change a little, will the changes extend the range of the unit. Reason I'm asking, I haven't built my boards yet, so if there are changes that will enhance the range of the unit, I'll just wait for the new boards before building. Thanks,

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: tylyview on December 30, 2009,

This looks good. It will be easier probably for newer people to build too seeing as they order two of the same thing and change a simple jumper.

A question though, what would the approximate range be?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: joshuashu on December 31, 2009,

I am assuming that once beta is done their will be a coop? Looks awesome RJ, thanks so much.  :)

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 31, 2009,

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If this can be both a TX and RX, should the RJ45 Jack location be labelled as "DMX" or "DMX IN/OUT" rather than just "DMX IN"?

Maybe, but for the $100 setup fee I have to spend each change or proto I think it is ok the way it is for now.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 31, 2009,

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Would it make sense to provide an optional connector for an external, possibly remote, high-gain antenna (for transmit)? Or is that impractical / unnecessary?

Yes it is impractical and gets away from the Ver 2 which is to keep the tuned system as it is preventing users induced range issues.  The extra output power should make up for the standard antenna but nor for a very directional ant. Those needing that are techincal enough to make it work.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 31, 2009,

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RJ,

You noted the EX/RX was going to change a little, will the changes extend the range of the unit. Reason I'm asking, I haven't built my boards yet, so if there are changes that will enhance the range of the unit, I'll just wait for the new boards before building. Thanks,

Bill

Ex/RX changes will likely only be leds added for indication of signal ect and firmware update but can not promise until beta is over I have been know to start over on designs.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on December 31, 2009,

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This looks good. It will be easier probably for newer people to build too seeing as they order two of the same thing and change a simple jumper.

A question though, what would the approximate range be?

Can't answer that until the beta is well along on it.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 03, 2010,

Got the code for the TX/RX ver2 pcb ready for testing just waiting on the PCB's to arrive.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Rainlover on January 04, 2010,

This is going to help us newbies a bunch!!
I can't wait to get started.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 12, 2010,

Heres a picture of the Ver 2 wireless Proto.  I do not have the Rj45 jack on it yet as I am hunting for one and it was bedtime. The leds at the bottom will stick out of the case. The Red one is a power led and the Green one is a status indictator.


RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 13, 2010,

Sweet,

Looks like a nice easy build

Cheers

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: voyageurs60 on January 13, 2010,

the description of the new capabilities and the view of the new PCB is great... this will be a real improvements... thanks for all the hard work - Dan

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: ponddude on January 13, 2010,

This looks great...but one question.  Is the amp strong enough that we no longer need an antenna?

Greg

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 13, 2010,

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This looks great...but one question.  Is the amp strong enough that we no longer need an antenna?

Greg

That is the first one built. RJ still needs to do testing on it to see how it works.

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 14, 2010,

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This looks great...but one question.  Is the amp strong enough that we no longer need an antenna?

Greg

Yeap!

    I just finished testing the range comparing it indoors with walls and such in the way. The new module using the stronger amp does indeed out performed the original transmitter even though we are using a pcb on board antenna. The original modules had no power so I had to add an amp and this meant hacking the antenna off and rednecking a connection to the amp. Now the connection could not be perfectly tuned so there was losses. Then the amp I used had an output of about 40 MW in perfect conditions which we were not so likely we had about 30 mw output or less.

This unit has a perfect matched antenna with a 100mw amp and so it out does the other hands down. The antennas are much less direction on it also so this is also a benifit.

The other issue we saw was variations from builder to builder on the range. Most got about what I was seeing but some had very bad range. Like 50  - 100 feet. Since this is what the unit with no amp does I expect they were having issues with the amp being damaged.

This gets away from the builders needing to modify the Rf module and leaves no room to detune it. The range should be repeatable on every unit.

This unit cost less and has better range. On top of this the new units amp works when receiveing also which the original did not so when using a Ver 2 TX with a ver 2 standalone RX the two should be very impressive for the cost. The testing I just did was using a new Ver2 TX and a version 1 EX/RX receiver on an express and the difference was very noticeable testing in the worst situation (walls/doors/ect in the way).

I also want to point out that a few people I spoke with that were not happy with the range of the original had unrealistic goals for the units. I had posted many times that they are not suppost to be able to sit in your brick house going out through the walls and make it through trees while you stand front of it. These are line of site units. They should be able to see each other. You can get away with some stuff but do not over estimate what the microwave signals can go though.

Mount these things outside up high looking out over your show and they will work as they did for most that used them this way. These new units will let you get away with more but to be reliable use them correctly. Do not expect them to go through cars and other solid metal objects ect.

As happy as most users where with the wireless they will love these new units.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: tbone321 on January 14, 2010,

This sounds great so far.  Any idea when a possible coop will happen?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Ron on January 14, 2010,

Great report RJ, thanks for sharing.

Ron

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: satskier on January 14, 2010,

I am really looking forward to these units coming out.  I while I want a couple of these yesterday, I encourage everyone, myself included to be patient while RJ conducts initial testing and a borader beta. 
We have plenty of time.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: thshadow on January 14, 2010,

This looks awesome... Great work..

- Mike

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on January 15, 2010,

Looks Awesome

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: solidmodeler on January 15, 2010,

Looks  great RJ, if you want some serious testing try it inside my 100+ yr old plaster wall, aluminum sided house. ;D
Just kidding. Looking forward to availability, good luck with further testing.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on January 15, 2010,

I forgot to mention that I love the RED led.

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: sims101 on January 15, 2010,

Cant wait to start building it is going to put a change on the speed of set up of controllors sweet stuff good job RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 15, 2010,

Little video demo of the wireless 2.0

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: kylec on January 15, 2010,

Awesome additions!  Thanks for the video RJ!!

Kyle

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 15, 2010,

Cool

The LEDs are very helpful

What was the buzzing noise?

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: sims101 on January 15, 2010,

The raw power output of the new  transmitter  :D

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 15, 2010,

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The raw power output of the new  transmitter  :D

He's not kidding! Listen and you will notice it is only when the TX is outputting and worst the closer the camera gets to it.

The new modules are powerful enough that they induced the sound into the camera! So yes these puppies are a wee bit hotter than the Version 1's were.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on January 18, 2010,

RED LED ;D

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 18, 2010,

Vid #2

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: KeithTarpley on January 18, 2010,

Greetings,,,

Good to see the demo... and the car...   ;D

Keith

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on January 18, 2010,

Sweet!!

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: sims101 on January 18, 2010,

TOO COOL I'AM SOLD :o

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: thshadow on January 18, 2010,

That is absolutely out of this world...

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: vairmoose on January 18, 2010,

Awesome!!    ..     

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rufusred1 on January 18, 2010,

Fantastic work. I'll be eagerly waiting since I will be starting everything new; I'll use the v2 Tx once it is available.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 18, 2010,

You do know it would of been Totally Awesome if bumblebee transformed while the camera was on and stood in front of the LE and the LE continue to work.

That being said, Still a cool video and demo

Cheers

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 18, 2010,

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You do know it would of been Totally Awesome if bumblebee transformed while the camera was on and stood in front of the LE and the LE continue to work.

That being said, Still a cool video and demo

Cheers

Rick R.

How about a video of a Wireless RX 2.0 Transforming into a TX 2.0 in front of your eyes. Best I could do Rick! Sorry! could not afford that option on the camaro.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 18, 2010,

Cool the Lynx Transformer

Rx - Tx - Rx

Great Job Merlin

Cheers

Rick R.

Too bad about the bumblebee option.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: kylec on January 19, 2010,

Awesome!  Can't wait to have one of my very own! ;D ;D

Kyle

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: lortiz on January 19, 2010,

RJ,

As usual, BRILLIANT!

Can't wait to have these new toys.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: knguyen916 on January 19, 2010,

thanks. Just for kicks and testing purposes

1. put a car in front of the signal with the radio on, tuned into the FM transmitter (playing music)
2. put it inside a house and a microwave in front of it running

 ;D

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Vid #2

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on January 19, 2010,

Looks Awesome  ;D

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: coachers on January 19, 2010,

If I needed two wireless situations -

  I would need 2 units set in transmit mode and 2 units set in receive mode?  How would each reviver know who to listen to?

 Hope this is isn't too stupid of a question, just want to understand.

AL

 

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: memphislights on January 19, 2010,

I think that there is a jumper to select what universe it is transmitting/receiving.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: tbone321 on January 19, 2010,

It's not really a seperate universe as far as DMX goes, just a different frequency and IIRC, the transmitter and receiver can work on three seperate ones.  If they are needed to be on seperate universes then you wold need a second dongle as well. 

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: austindave on January 19, 2010,

Hi Al,

I see that you're pretty new here, so am going to assume that you don't already have a huge automated display. With that, I'm thinking you're asking a simpler question... Something like - "in a simple installation, do I need one transmitter for every receiver?".

No, you do NOT need to keep transmitters and receivers in "pairs". One transmitter will serve any number of receivers - up to the 512-channel limit of a DMX universe. You only need more than one transmitter in the following cases:
- when you exceed 512 channels,
- when you want multiple unsynchronized, simultaneous displays, or
- when the signal from the transmitter isn't strong enough to cover the whole display area (geographically).

Hope this helps.
--Dave

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: coachers on January 19, 2010,

Dave,

 Spot on! Thank you!

  I'm very impressed that one transmitter can handle more then one receiver, absolutely awesome.!

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Caliente Christmas on January 19, 2010,

One transmitter (TX) send out instruction to 512 channels or less. Dimmer controller component doesn't matter, as long it equal out to be 512 channels or less and it recieves DMX commands.  Please shoot me down if i am wrong,  I just want to make sure I understand.

Will there be a new version Receivers or is the current version still the standard?

The Express Receiver (EX/RX) that gets connected to the LYNX Dimmer
The Standalone Receiver (RX) which you plug with a patch cable to the Lynx Dimmer controller

Wiki Location information
(Under DMX Wireless Devices http://diylightanimation.com/wiki/index.php?title=Equipment#Dimmers)

Thanks

YV

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on January 19, 2010,

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One transmitter (TX) send out instruction to 512 channels or less. Dimmer controller component doesn't matter, as long it equal out to be 512 channels or less and it recieves DMX commands.  Please shoot me down if i am wrong,  I just want to make sure I understand.

Will there be a new version Receivers or is the current version still the standard?

The Express Receiver (EX/RX) that gets connected to the LYNX Dimmer
The Standalone Receiver (RX) which you plug with a patch cable to the Lynx Dimmer controller

Wiki Location information
(Under DMX Wireless Devices http://diylightanimation.com/wiki/index.php?title=Equipment#Dimmers)

Thanks

YV

EX/RX gets a LED upgrade, I don't remember anything else.

The  RX & TX (ver 2)are now one unit. A jumper on board determines if its a TX or RX - the LEDs let you know what mode its in and then if sending/receiving  DMX

Of course ver 2 units will talk with ver 1 units.

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Rod R on January 19, 2010,

Nice RJ,  Does that mean will be seeing some coops for both the EX/RX plug-in modules and for the standalone.  ;D.  Looks like there will be a bunch of us looking for these and the dongles once the coops are shipped.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on January 19, 2010,

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Nice RJ,  Does that mean will be seeing some coops for both the EX/RX plug-in modules and for the standalone.  ;D.  Looks like there will be a bunch of us looking for these and the dongles once the coops are shipped.

A little while later this year, we are just starting the Beta and we need to have time to find any issues before we release them. Give us a few months and we will run a coop on all the new wireless. Should be about the time JJ digs out from under the hundreds of thousands of parts in the express coop!  ;D

We love you DAD!!!!!!

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: KeithTarpley on January 19, 2010,

Greetings,,,

Wiki entry___

    JJ:  See also, Under parts....

      No, really, see JJ under the parts!

Keith


 ;D

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: ThaiWay on January 23, 2010,

DL'd your vids RJ... and as usual it seems you've thought of everything!  How can we ever repay you?  and JJ too!

John

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: WWNF911 on January 24, 2010,

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Should be about the time JJ digs out from under the hundreds of thousands of parts in the express coop!  ;D

We love you DAD!!!!!!

RJ

Sounds like your toy shop could use some elves. This thing could grow exponentially year after year.   :o

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,

TX/RX ver 2 beta pcbs came in a few days ago and I swap the parts over from the proto pcbs to two beta boards and all works well. The EX/RX ver 2 beta pcbs will be here tommorrow and all will ship out to the beta testers. They have parts on the way and I should start getting feedback on the beta in a couple of weeks.

If all goes as well for the beta testers as it has for me I would expect they could release it before too long after that. But like always until the beta testers sign off on it as ready, it ain't ready!

Then I am going to see if any of the coop managers can run a coop for them. I will be sending a pcb out to polycase to get the case machinig setup so we can provide the machined cases for the new units in the coop. I'm thinking do complete coops with the cases so you get everything and we should save a enough to pay for the machined cases for them and maybe still save some.

RJ   

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Rod R on February 01, 2010,

Sounds great RJ! Oh wait another Coop my wife is gonna kill me ;D  Sounds good about offering the case in the Coop.  Will you be offering a case for the DMX Dongle later in the year or should I just go ahead and order offline myself.  No hurry on the case just wondering.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: PJNMCT on February 01, 2010,

RJ,

Will the v2 be boards be compatible with the v1 cases?

Thanks,
Paul

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on February 01, 2010,

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RJ,

Will the v2 be boards be compatible with the v1 cases?

Thanks,
Paul

No I am afraid they are not. The new layout is quite different. And so no one will already have cases so it would be the perfect coop to include them.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on February 04, 2010,

Beta PCBs are on the way to the testers. Now we find out what we have.  ;D

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on February 22, 2010,

Hey beta testers, we know they are not ready for prime time yet, but, are they looking like thumbs up, or thumbs down so far.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on February 22, 2010,

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Hey beta testers, we know they are not ready for prime time yet, but, are they looking like thumbs up, or thumbs down so far.

Its great, it works so well they are bouncing the signal off of the moon.

Sorry not a clue, I am not a beta tester but I did get new meds today :D

Cheers

Rick (on the moon) R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on February 22, 2010,

Hey, I was at Walgreens today too, happy pills, very very happy pills.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: egenoup on February 22, 2010,

Can't wait for beta testers to finish...    :o

soooooo may COOPs, sooooo little money!!!
 ::)

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: csteph7 on March 10, 2010,

I was wondering if anyone new how the Beta testing was going.  I am waiting for my 6 express form the last coop and can't wait to get my hands on a the new wireless transmitters....it will save me drilling a whole in my wall to get the cat 5 outside .  The wife is not too happy about that plan. ???

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: WWNF911 on March 11, 2010,

Sometimes it's just easier to ask for forgiveness.  :D


Leon

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on March 14, 2010,

So far my testing is going great, I'll post some video later

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on March 14, 2010,

Thanks for the update Bill,

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on March 14, 2010,

Not meaning to leave everyone hanging but we do betas in private to allow the tester to be totally objective and say what needs to be said without concern for what it might make others think. No rushing it is ready when the beta tester say that it is ready. I can say I am getting some very good reports on it. Better range and easier to build for the users with no variations from one to the next was the goals and it looks good at this point. No changes have been made or requested yet to them. 

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on March 27, 2010,

Later today we enter the last stage in the beta with the release to the beta testers of updated firmware for their Ver 1 wireless to begin testing of it with it on Ver 2 systems. Some of the guys found out that with out the upgrade the channel one worked fine anyway so we kind of are ahead on this but with this they can verify the operation on all channels with the older wireless. The older RX and EX/RX units will still get a range boost with just a change to a Ver 2 unit being used as your TX. Remember with the ver 3 there is only two devices now. A "Wireless unit" which is both a TX and a RX depending on where the jumper is set.  And there is an EX/RX which the only change to it is two leds have been added to show Power and Data.  The Wireless unit in "TX mode" has about 3 times the output power of a version 1 TX. They are also much easier to build since there is no modifications to the RF module and no external antennas to mess with. This in turn makes them cheaper also and the whole unit fits in the case. Once the beta guys finish and give me the go ahead I will ask them to post to this thread their experiences and thoughts on the differences and overall of the version 2. Everyone of them have been using the Version 1 units so they have the expirence with both to talk about it. Some have video they want to show and a few have even done maps of their neiborhood and where they had been able to put units that works as well as where it did not. Many times there were doing this with the units laying flat on the ground (far from optimum for range). We already have a Coop Manager lined up to do a coop so we are close to a coop of this.

RJ  

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Rod R on March 27, 2010,

RJ,

Thanks for the heads up,  looking forward to the coop.

Rod

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: trekster on March 27, 2010,

RJ,    Not to jump the gun or get a quote that I will hold you to but can you give a guess on the cost of one of these.  Ballpark?  I will be using 8-9 LE's.  So I figure needing 10?  Just wondering if it will be out of range for this year on the cost for me.  This is my first year.  I know the cat5 cable is the cheap way to go but just wondering.

Thank You!

Ron

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on March 27, 2010,

Can't tell you what the coop cost will be but the one off cost is about $40 for the Wireless units including the parts, wall wart and pcb.

The EX/RX is the same as the ver 1 plus the .10 for the two leds and resistors.
Coop price of course will be less.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: trekster on March 27, 2010,

Thank YOU!

That is what I wanted to know.

Ron

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: csteph7 on March 27, 2010,

Thanks for the update RJ....I am ne to the DIY and can't wait for the coop and I have been setting money aside so it is great to hear that the beta test is going well ;D

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: crazybob on March 29, 2010,

RJ, what channels are you talking about for wireless? I thought wireless transmits an entire DMX universe, and the equipment hooked to each receiver could each be set to their own channel?
Also, will the LED's on the Ex/Rx stick out of the Express case, or will the case need to be opened to see DMX status?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on March 29, 2010,

Sorry to confuse!  Channel as in Freqency it is on. When yuo hear us talk about universe #1 and universe #2 we are talking about what freqency that unit is on. you can run three different "Channels" or "Universes" so you can handle 1536 channels total on the wireless.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: crazybob on March 29, 2010,

That makes total sense now. For a minute there I was a little worried that everything I've learned here was completely wrong  ???

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: testylefty on April 04, 2010,

Hi RJ:

Can you speculate a timeframe on when you think the wireless ver2 will be out of the testing phase and ready to go with a coop purchase?  I can only speak for myself but I believe we  all are anxiously waiting this release. Thanks.

Colin

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on April 04, 2010,

All depends on the Beta Testers ok to go ahead. I have not had anything to tell me it would not be very soon.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on April 07, 2010,

Two beta testers have given it their blessing to proceed with release. Waiting on two more to answer.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on April 08, 2010,

All four beta testers have given the thumbs up for launch. I asked them to post some info on what they found in this thread to update all of you. We hope to start a coop shortly for it.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Dennis Cherry on April 08, 2010,

I will be ordering on this coop.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: egenoup on April 08, 2010,

MOOOOOOREEE  COOPs.... MOOOORRREEEE COOPs...   ;D

I will need 6-10...

Where is the COOP?   <----- joke (as in "where is the beef?")

Charles

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: vairmoose on April 08, 2010,

Since RJ suggested,  I'll post a little on  my results.    

After assembling the new transceiver  and a couple new beta LE-RX, I created a moving lighting  violation and drove around the neighbood to see what success I would have.  The picture below should say it all.    The leaves were already starting to show on some trees so there is plenty of green barrier that the signal was attempting to get through.  At the top end of the path, the view of the truck through the turn-around (about 100 ft further than the line)  was fairly clear and only when cab of the truck got in the way of the direct signal did the signal degrade, but it picked back up at the point indicated.   On the south end just a few feet beyond the indicated line end point, is a street intersection,  the signal was compromised as the truck entered the intersection but not completely dead.   Here the signal was passing through one house and very large pine trees.  

The set up on the truck was being driven by two LE's, with a ver 2 LE-RX receiving the signal on one, and a version 2 transceiver, set as receiver, on the second.  It was my impression that the ver 2 LE-RX was as good a receiver as the transceiver.   The ver 1 LE-RX is equal to the Ver 2 LE-RX,  minus the LEDs, so I did not worry about taking the Ver 1 out on a run.   Based on the results, I suspect that the Ver 1 external receiver with the external antenna, may actually be good for a little more distance, but I did not test this theory as being able to go the equivalent of 2 full blocks  was more than enough.  

Other obsticles,  I did find that standing just a few feet directly in front of the receiver, would significantly disrupt the signal.  So putting the receiver in the middle of a crowd may not give the desired results.  

Final thought........   This is gonna be a FUN year !!!!!!!!!!!!!!    Say tuned! <pop..

Larry

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: egenoup on April 08, 2010,

Thanks for the details...  <res.

Charles

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Rod R on April 09, 2010,

Thanks for the heads up guys,  Can't wait for the new coop  <la..

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: testylefty on April 11, 2010,

I am very much looking forward for this Coop to start.  This will be my first Coop I participate in.  Can you just purchase pcb's?  I ask because I have parts all over the place that I want to use up.  Thanks.

Colin <np..  <md..

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: tbone321 on April 11, 2010,

Usually RJ will order extra boards during the coop and then offer them for sale after the coop is completed.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on April 11, 2010,

Yes, my plan is to have a PCB option.  But all details will be in first post at the start of the co-op.   My laptop is down right now but I hope to have more details once I am backup and running.

I'll also post some test video, once I am back to a PC.

As for pricing I do not have any yet, so please do not post about it.

Thanks

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: kylec on April 13, 2010,

I'm a little late to the party, but here is my report.....

I was able to spend quite a bit of time playing with the new wireless gear, and I was very excited with what I found.  The range on the new Tx was at least doubled for me over the V1.  With the V1 Tx, I had quite a few dead spots in my yard, and with the new stuff, there was not a place on my property where I didn't have full signal.  I did a couple things that where a little extreme like place the Tx in a metal box, and then put it down in the crawl space, and I still had a good signal both inside, and outside of the house.

The beta gear was also 100% compatible with the V1 stuff with the updated firmware.  I had no problems using the 2 together.

Overall, I would say the V2 equipment is a big upgrade to the V1.  In my opinion, the added strength of the Tx makes it worth it to replace your V1.

Kyle   ;D ;D



Here is a copy and paste of my range testing...................

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: kylec on April 13, 2010,

I finally had a chance to do some range testing today.  The Tx is screwed to a fence post in my side yard, about 5 ft off of the ground.

The first picture is the stand alone Rx.  The second picture is the Ex/Rx Version 2.

The closest Red arrow to my house was directly behind an SUV.  I backed up about 20ft and got a signal.  The only location where I had 0 signal was the arrow closest to the semi truck on 20th.

Key:

Blue arrow = Tx

Green arrow =  Good signal, no skipping jumping, or stopping.  I would place a controller here for my show.

Purple arrow = Weak signal, when controller is held in perfect position it works about 99%, but may skip a little bit.  I might place a controller here if I couldn't find a better option.

Red arrow = Very weak signal, lots of jumping.  Placing a controller here would be a waste of 16 channels.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on April 14, 2010,

Will the V2 TX/RX use the same case as the V1 Transmitter?

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rrowan on April 14, 2010,

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Will the V2 TX/RX use the same case as the V1 Transmitter?

Same case but different hole patterns

No longer uses the external antenna but adds two led holes.

Rick R.

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on April 15, 2010,

Here are some of my vids

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on April 15, 2010,

Just want to clarify. The V1 Transmitter and Receiver use a different case according to the BOM. One is about 3/8" longer than the other, and I want to purchase the correct one. The 2 models are the LP-35, and the other is the LP-51, which is the longer one.  According to the BOM, the Transmitter uses the shorter case, is that the one to get? Thanks in advance for the help,

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: RJ on April 15, 2010,

Don't purchase any! we are in talks of having them in the coop pre machined by polycase to fit as part of the kit.

RJ

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: austindave on April 15, 2010,

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...having them in the coop pre machined by polycase to fit as part of the kit.

RJ

Oooooh! Tres COOL!  <res.
Thanks RJ!

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: bisquit476 on April 15, 2010,

Thanks for that info RJ,

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: vairmoose on April 15, 2010,

For those that are wondering...   here is a short clip to give an idea of what the cased transceiver will be similar to.    I used the case from a version 1 transmitter to house the version 2 transceiver in the beta testing.   

I would expect any case that goes into the coop will look much better than this as it would be cut to fit rather than blundgeoned into position with a gorrilla fist.  :P

Larry     

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on April 17, 2010,

More Vids

Sorry for the delay

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on April 17, 2010,

Another One

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: Kwajtony on April 17, 2010,

Thanks Bill -- Kyle --  RJ

Looking forward to this coop too!

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: joshuashu on April 20, 2010,

Thanks for the video Bill.  Nice Grape arbor too!  :) cant wait for the coop!  <la..

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: hbomb341 on April 20, 2010,

Thank's for the video's and info - I am ready for the CoOp!!!!!

Harrison

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: rm357 on April 24, 2010,

Hmmm, range may be too good.
I hope none of you live too close to my house ;)

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: knguyen916 on April 28, 2010,

Now that you mentioned that. Has there been testing on 2-3 people living in the same block using the wireless DMX? Any interference testing of 2 wireless DMX running?

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Hmmm, range may be too good.
I hope none of you live too close to my house ;)

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: n1ist on April 29, 2010,

Tou can always switch to a different channel (assuming you are only running one universe wirelessly); the wireless supports three channels.
/mike

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: knguyen916 on April 29, 2010,

yup, just curious if this test was done with the new more powerful transmitter. It probably no problem at all with different frequencies, just a test to make sure.  ;D

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Tou can always switch to a different channel (assuming you are only running one universe wirelessly); the wireless supports three channels.
/mike

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: vairmoose on April 29, 2010,

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yup, just curious if this test was done with the new more powerful transmitter. It probably no problem at all with different frequencies, just a test to make sure.  ;D

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Tou can always switch to a different channel (assuming you are only running one universe wirelessly); the wireless supports three channels.
/mike

Yup...

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: wbuehler on April 30, 2010,

Yes, I ran a version 1 Transmitter at Universe 1 along with a Version 2 Transmitter at Universes 3 with no problems.

Bill

Title: Re: Wireless Ver2 update
Post by: batdive on May 13, 2010,

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Yes, I ran a version 1 Transmitter at Universe 1 along with a Version 2 Transmitter at Universes 3 with no problems.

Bill

Hey Bill I dont know if it has been addressed already (as this board seems to get mroe and more posts each day) but you link the WIKI in reference the BOM/Manual for the Ver 2 COOP.  Well the Manual and such are for Ver 1, is there going to be an update in regards to ver 2 build?


-Bat

PS: thanks for being the COOP manager also, judging from the number of orders you will be busy.  <res.