Broadly based on GSM (mobile phone) technology, the wireless side works in the 2.45GHz radio band alongside Bluetooth and similar IEEE 802.11 (W-LAN) compliant products. However, unlike equipment operating according to the 802.11 standard, the W-DMX system uses Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) encryption along with Adaptive Frequency Hopping (AFH) which allows greater data throughput as it is less affected by local 802.11 products.
The products are all DMX512A and RDM ready, and the firmware can also be updated using a separate data channel, which is also used for system set up. Up to 8192 receivers can be controlled form one system, and there are four differing types of transmitter - the differences being primarily in the quantity of DMX universes that can be controlled: 1, 4, 8 or up to 16 universes (8192 channels) of DMX can be deployed. The receivers are more use specific - the standard is small with the minimum of controls, whereas the Delux has a built in UPS for up to 8 hours of power loss and the Deluxe Outdoor has an IP rating of 65. All systems have LCD screens and menu systems for easy navigation, and the 'Blackbox' version has no controls and is entirely 'plug 'n play' for one universe of DMX.
Ranges of up to 30km are possible (US Spec equipment only) with up to 12km in Europe, depending on conditions and antenna chosen. Various boosters, repeaters and ready-made cables are available as well as a range of antennas.
