A few questions before joining THE co op

[crazybob]

I really want to join in the coop for the v5 express, but have a few last minute questions that will be the deciding factor.

1. Can the express be used on an existing DMX network? How would one make a 3 pin DMX -> CAT5 adaptor?
2. Do the Pics need to be "flashed" as I have read elsewhere or do they come pre-programmed?
3. How would the coop work if Mouser should be backordered on certain parts?
4. Can the kit be assembled as it comes, and wireless added at a later date? Or does that need to be decided up front?

Thanks in advance for helping... hopefully the answers will help encourage a few others to join also!

[memphislights]

1. Can the express be used on an existing DMX network?
  yes
1a. How would one make a 3 pin DMX -> CAT5 adaptor?
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2. Do the Pics need to be "flashed" as I have read elsewhere or do they come pre-programmed?
  only the dongle pic needs to be user flashed, or ask someone to program it for you.
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3. How would the coop work if Mouser should be backordered on certain parts?
  the coop manager would try and source parts from other vendors
4. Can the kit be assembled as it comes, and wireless added at a later date?  Or does that need to be decided up front?
  yes

[RJ]

I really want to join in the coop for the v5 express, but have a few last minute questions that will be the deciding factor.

1. Can the express be used on an existing DMX network? How would one make a 3 pin DMX -> CAT5 adaptor?
2. Do the Pics need to be "flashed" as I have read elsewhere or do they come pre-programmed?
3. How would the coop work if Mouser should be backordered on certain parts?
4. Can the kit be assembled as it comes, and wireless added at a later date? Or does that need to be decided up front?

Thanks in advance for helping... hopefully the answers will help encourage a few others to join also!

1 - Yes ,  Check the wiki for the wiring diagram of the adapter or buy the posted premade one that is in wiki.
2 - They come flashed in a coop. It is nice to have a pickit to do upgrades later but not required.
3 - Then we wait on the parts. You can look at the forum section finished coops to the 7 express coops last year some had backorders.
4 - Yes it can.

RJ


Ml was faster than I was at posting!

[tbone321]

To answer your questions

1.  Yes, the express will work in an existing DMX network and there are diagrams on the WIKI to make the 3 pinto RJ45 adapter.
2. The pics in a coop come flashed with the most current firmware.
3. IIRC, the kits do not ship until complete.
4. Wireless can be added later if desired and the kits come ready to assemble, minus electrical cords and cases.

[memphislights]

 

[crazybob]

Wow, that many answers that quickly. Looks like maybe i'm the only one here who is a little behind 
Thanks guys!

[lightsoncallaway]

since pic programming has been brought up.  what pic programmer would everyone recommend if I was looking to purchase one?

-Curt

[WWNF911]

Pickit2

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[deplanche]

For #4 - None of the kits come with wireless.  They are all designed for wired operation by default.  If you want wireless, you would need to pick up the parts for that on your own or from another coop (none running currently).  Those can be added to the LE at any time, without having to remove anything, or don't need to be added at all.

[crazybob]

Ok, so now that I'm officially going to be a Lynx user (Wooo-Hooo!) I have a question about the power cords.
Since it doesn't look like the cord terminals are grounded, do most people here use:

1. Grounded 3 prong "outdoor" cords
2. 2 prong "indoor" cords
3. Make your own cords using "indoor" (spt2?) wire and vampire plugs?

I already have HUNDREDS of 25 foot outdoor extension cords, Would I be best to use 3 prong on my express so I can use my existing cords with them?
Is there a way to make 3 prong cords for the express, or where is the cheapest place to by them?

[basis21b]

There is some discussion of three prong cords in this thread.

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