Category FAQs
What are ONYX NX consoles?
ONYX NX consoles are dedicated hardware lighting control desks that run the ONYX software on an embedded, purpose-built computer. They include motorized faders, physical playback controls, touch screens, and built-in DMX outputs, and ship with an embedded ONYX license — no separate software purchase is required. Because they run the same ONYX software as the PC version, show files move freely between consoles and ONYX on PC.
What is the difference between the NX1, NX2, NX3, and NX4 consoles?
The NX1 (legacy) is the compact entry-level console with 8 universes, a 10.1" touch screen, 4 DMX ports, and 10 motorized playbacks. The NX1-16 doubles the output to 16 universes. The NX2 (legacy) is a mid-range console with 64 universes, a full HD touch screen, 4 DMX ports, MIDI, timecode, and dual Gigabit ports. The NX3 is a larger console with 64 universes and an integrated folding 17.3" touch display designed for touring. The NX4 is the flagship with 64 universes, 15.6" adjustable screen, 44 playbacks, 9 encoders, trackball, and support for two external 4K monitors.
What are Netron EtherDMX nodes and what do they do?
Netron EtherDMX gateways or "nodes" are Ethernet-to-DMX devices that receive Art-Net or sACN from ONYX (or any compatible lighting controller) and output DMX/RDM to fixtures. They eliminate long DMX cable runs by placing conversion points close to fixtures in a network-distributed rig. Some Netron devices also include standalone scene storage (up to 99 cues on some models), RDM support, and remote configuration via a web interface. When connected to a PC running ONYX, compatible Netron nodes unlock NOVA mode (up to 4 universes).
What is the difference between EN, EP, and RDM series Netron nodes?
EN-series nodes (EN4, EN6, EN12, EN6D, EN12i, etc) are EtherDMX nodes with multiple DMX ports. EP-series nodes (EP1, EP1D, EP2, EP4) are compact nodes with no mains power input. RDM-series products (RDM10, RDM6) are DMX/RDM splitters that distribute one DMX input to multiple isolated outputs while maintaining full RDM pass-through.
IP-rated variants (EN6 IP, RDM 6 IP) are designed for outdoor or harsh environments with weather protection.
Can Netron nodes store and play back shows independently?
Netron EtherDMX gateways featuring 4 ports or more, include internal memory for up to 99 cues with fade and delay times. These scenes can be triggered via DMX, the front panel display, or the web interface. Some Netron devices support additional methods of triggering cues, such as button stations (BS10), or contact closure inputs. This makes Netron nodes suitable for simple standalone installations such as architectural lighting, retail, or permanent installs where a full console is not present.
What is the Netron CLU software and how do I get it?
Netron CLU (Configuration and Lookup Utility) is a free Windows application for discovering, configuring, and updating firmware on all Netron EtherDMX devices across a network. CLU can find Netron nodes regardless of IP range, push firmware updates, adjust port settings, and save/restore device configurations — all from a single interface. It is downloaded from obsidiancontrol.com/products/netron-clu under the Netron section. CLU only manages Netron hardware; it does not control ONYX software or NX consoles.
What is the ONYX Key (USB license dongle)?
The ONYX Key is a USB dongle that unlocks a specific license tier of ONYX on any Windows PC it is inserted into. Five levels are available: ONYX 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 universes. The key requires no internet activation — plug it in and the corresponding license activates immediately. It can be moved freely between PCs (only one PC can use it at a time). Legacy ONYX Keys (Elite, Premier, Essential) automatically convert to the equivalent current key tier.
Only one license can be active on a system at a time. When multiple licenses are connected, ONYX will automatically detect and activate the highest available license.
What is the NX P motorized fader wing?
The NX P is a motorized playback wing for ONYX, designed as an expansion for NX consoles or PC-based ONYX systems. It includes 10 motorized 60mm playback faders each with 4 function-assignable buttons, plus a Master Go section — exactly matching the playback layout of the NX1 console. Connecting the NX P to ONYX on PC unlocks NOVA+ mode (4 universes, full MIDI/OSC/timecode).
What is the NX Sync?
The NX SYNC captures timecode in various SMPTE formats from its 3-pin XLR connection and converts it to a USB MIDI Timecode (MTC) stream, where it can be read into ONYX or any other MIDI Timecode compatible software. Additionally, it also has the power to take MTC and send it back out as SMPTE.
What Netron accessories are available for permanent installations?
Netron offers a range of installation accessories including the BS10 (Decora 1-gang wall plates for recessed mounting) and BS10-EU button stations, the BS10 Split (power injector and data splitter for BS10 daisy chains), the NET Shelf for rack-mounting half-rack Netron devices, and wall plate PCB modules (PCB5P for 5-pin DMX, WP1CAT6 for CAT6) for custom wall plate integration. These accessories enable professional, clean permanent lighting control installations.
What are Netron DMX splitters/distributors?
Netron's RDM and DMX splitter range distributes a single DMX input to multiple isolated outputs for large rigs that require more DMX lines than a single universe feed. Options include the RDM10 (10-port), RDM6 (6-port in RJ45 or 5-pin XLR variants), RDM6 IP (6-port IP66-rated for outdoor), RDM6D (DIN-rail mount), DMX10-5 (10-port 5-pin), DMX10-3 (10-port 3-pin for European market), and DMX10-53 (half 5-pin, half 3-pin) models. All include optically isolated outputs and LED status feedback.