Okay... I think I'm getting it:) I understand the pixel/node/and channel stuff. It's just going through all the darn hardware. So here's a bunch of questions - sorry if it's a bit random, but it's the gaps I have after reading the wiki and watching various videos. Let me know if these should be in separate posts.
So I get it goes Computer -> Dongle -> Hub -> SSC -> Lights
What I"m not clear on is some of the hardware options in there. Drlucas mentioned the zeuss setup. The wiki says "(SSCs & Hub)" -- does that mean if I go with zeuss I don't need to also buy the controllers that RJ puts right on his strings in those PVC tubes?
The Zeus is a combination hub and multiple controller but it is used for specific items like megatrees. While the distance between the hub and the controller can be large like 100 feet, the dstance between the controller and the first node is rather short like around 6 feet or so. Since the Zeus is both the hub and string controller, the first node of each string needs to b close to the Zeus. Wile this works well for specific items, the hub - SSC method offer the most flexability.
Am I also correct the pixelNet is like DMX - I just need to have a software that outputs pixelnet, my dongle (used currently for lynx express) flashed to output pixelnet?
Software is not the correct word. Vixen is software and it doesn't know or care what the communication protocol is. What you need is the correct firmware flashed into your dongle for it to output PixelNet.
What's the difference between and Active vs a Passive hub?
A active hub has the ability to convert part of your PixelNet universe into a DMX universe. This is needed for your LE's. The passive hub just outputs Pixelnet
RJ demo uses Vixen in his Smart String demo. It's the software that I've been using but I've been under 100 channels so far. Since each node can be 3 channels the idea of managing all those rows in Vixen begins to boggle my mind:) Any other software out there that may be a bit more user friendly when it comes to managing all those channels with RGB?
Nutcracker has many effects that make working with RGB and massive channel counts much easier. The output frm Nutcracker can be placed into your Vixen sequences. XLights also works well with this. The newer versions of Vixen are also more geared to RGB. LSP also has features here but it is not free and IMHO, rather expensive but the people that use it seem to like it.