Can I built my own interface?

[Jaykie]

This is from the old forum
Altorfoss
Hi all

Is it possible to built an interface, what kind of protocol is used for DMX
Oke I am a dummy, can I use a RS485 interface.
As I omce built such a thing for a PLC controller for Siemens, I expect that a serial to DMX interface is as easy as that.

Wrong??

Plz answer me.....
Greetings from the Netherlands (12points plz)

Harrie

Mattotone
The enttec Open DMX is a free open source interface, you may wish to start from there.

"This DMX USB interface is based on the FTDI 232BM chip, it's a USB to serial converter."

The protocol is a serial protocol with no error checking.
http://www.dmx512-online.com/packt.html

Please beware of the new dmx Protocol with RDM which allows the lights to respond back to the controller.

HyperBaton
Easiest way I can think of would be a FTDI 232 USB to Serial IC combined with a 3.3V RS485 transceiver. You can power the transceiver straight from the FTDI chip, which draws its power from the USB port.