What is the primary function of the Enttec D-SPLIT?

The D-SPLIT takes a single DMX input and duplicates it across four outputs, allowing for easier cable routing and protecting the system against signal overloads.

How many outputs does the Enttec D-SPLIT have?

It features four outputs in total: two are 5-pin XLR and two are 3-pin XLR.

Does the D-SPLIT provide electrical protection?

Yes, it offers optical isolation up to 1000V, protecting your controller and other fixtures from stray voltage or electrical surges on any individual output line.

Can I use both 3-pin and 5-pin outputs at the same time?

Yes, the D-SPLIT is designed to output DMX signal to all four ports simultaneously, regardless of whether they are 3-pin or 5-pin.

How many DMX channels does this device support?

The D-SPLIT supports a full DMX universe of 512 channels.

What material is the housing made of?

The device is housed in a compact and durable ABS plastic casing, making it lightweight for transport.

Does the D-SPLIT require power to operate?

Yes, as an active DMX splitter and isolator, it requires an external power supply to function.

What do the LED indicators on the D-SPLIT show?

The LEDs provide visual confirmation of the unit's power status and the presence of DMX data activity.

Is the Enttec D-SPLIT suitable for outdoor use?

The standard D-SPLIT is designed for indoor use or protected environments; it is not rated for weather resistance or high-humidity outdoor exposure.

What is the model number for this specific Enttec splitter?

The specific manufacturer part number for this version of the D-SPLIT is 70578.

Can I use the 3-pin outputs for standard audio cables?

While the connectors are the same, it is recommended to use dedicated DMX-rated cables like the Adam Hall 5 STAR DMX series to ensure proper impedance and signal reliability.

How does the D-SPLIT compare to a passive Y-cable?

Unlike a Y-cable, the D-SPLIT actively buffers the signal and provides optical isolation, preventing data errors and protecting your equipment from electrical damage.

Gear article

Enttec D-SPLIT 3/5 PIN XLR DMX Splitter

The Enttec D-SPLIT is a compact, optically isolated DMX512 signal splitter designed to distribute a single lighting control input across four independent outputs. Housed in a durable ABS casing, it allows technicians to expand lighting rigs and protect equipment from voltage spikes by providing 1000V of isolation between ports.

See live prices

Overview

The Enttec D-SPLIT (Model 70578) is a dedicated DMX splitter and buffer designed to facilitate the management of complex lighting systems. In a standard DMX512 chain, overloading a single line with too many fixtures or excessively long cable runs can lead to signal degradation and unreliable fixture behaviour. The D-SPLIT addresses this by duplicating the incoming DMX signal and distributing it across four separate outputs.

Constructed from robust ABS plastic, the device is designed for both portable rigs and permanent installations. Its primary function is to simplify cable management by allowing fixtures in different physical locations to be fed from a central hub rather than a single, continuous daisy-chain.

Technical Features and Connectivity

The unit features a hybrid configuration of outputs to accommodate various hardware standards. It includes:

Two 5-pin XLR outputs for professional-grade lighting fixtures.
Two 3-pin XLR outputs for DJ-oriented or entry-level lighting gear.

All four outputs are optically isolated, a critical safety feature that protects the DMX controller and other connected devices. If a high-voltage surge or 'stray voltage' occurs on one branch of the lighting rig (up to 1000V), the optical barrier prevents that voltage from travelling back through the splitter to damage the rest of the system.

Performance and Signal Management

The D-SPLIT supports the full 512-channel DMX universe. Because it acts as a signal buffer, it effectively refreshes the DMX data signal, ensuring that data integrity is maintained even when splitting the signal four ways. The unit includes LED status indicators, providing users with immediate visual feedback on the presence of power and DMX data, which is essential for rapid troubleshooting in live environments.

Target Audience and Applications

This splitter is specifically suited for small to medium-scale production environments, including:

Mobile DJs and Performers: The compact size and 3-pin outputs make it ideal for portable lighting setups.
Venues and Theatres: Useful for distributing signals to different zones, such as front-of-house bars and stage wings.
Installation Integrators: Provides a cost-effective way to ensure system reliability in permanent architectural or entertainment lighting installs.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard XLR 'Y-cables' or passive splitters, the Enttec D-SPLIT is significantly safer and more reliable due to its active optical isolation. While passive cables can cause signal reflections and impedance issues, the D-SPLIT ensures each output branch is clean and independent. In contrast to high-end rackmount DMX distributors, the D-SPLIT offers a more budget-friendly and space-saving solution for users who only require four output branches.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Enttec D-SPLIT?: The D-SPLIT takes a single DMX input and duplicates it across four outputs, allowing for easier cable routing and protecting the system against signal overloads.
How many outputs does the Enttec D-SPLIT have?: It features four outputs in total: two are 5-pin XLR and two are 3-pin XLR.
Does the D-SPLIT provide electrical protection?: Yes, it offers optical isolation up to 1000V, protecting your controller and other fixtures from stray voltage or electrical surges on any individual output line.
Can I use both 3-pin and 5-pin outputs at the same time?: Yes, the D-SPLIT is designed to output DMX signal to all four ports simultaneously, regardless of whether they are 3-pin or 5-pin.
How many DMX channels does this device support?: The D-SPLIT supports a full DMX universe of 512 channels.
What material is the housing made of?: The device is housed in a compact and durable ABS plastic casing, making it lightweight for transport.
Does the D-SPLIT require power to operate?: Yes, as an active DMX splitter and isolator, it requires an external power supply to function.
What do the LED indicators on the D-SPLIT show?: The LEDs provide visual confirmation of the unit's power status and the presence of DMX data activity.
Is the Enttec D-SPLIT suitable for outdoor use?: The standard D-SPLIT is designed for indoor use or protected environments; it is not rated for weather resistance or high-humidity outdoor exposure.
What is the model number for this specific Enttec splitter?: The specific manufacturer part number for this version of the D-SPLIT is 70578.
Can I use the 3-pin outputs for standard audio cables?: While the connectors are the same, it is recommended to use dedicated DMX-rated cables like the Adam Hall 5 STAR DMX series to ensure proper impedance and signal reliability.
How does the D-SPLIT compare to a passive Y-cable?: Unlike a Y-cable, the D-SPLIT actively buffers the signal and provides optical isolation, preventing data errors and protecting your equipment from electrical damage.