GigaJet20 Pro: Technical Review of Sundrax’s High-Density Ethernet/DMX Converter
The GigaJet20 Pro is a rack-mounted multiport signal processing unit that combines three functions in one chassis: a 3-port gigabit Ethernet switch, a fibre-media converter, and an Art-Net/sACN-to-DMX gateway with up to twenty optically isolated DMX ports. It addresses the requirements of large-scale, protocol-diverse lighting systems by integrating distribution, conversion, and redundancy within a single device.
Hardware and Power
The unit is built for a 19-inch rack, occupying 2U at a depth of 11 cm and weighing under 1.5 kg. It offers twenty optically isolated DMX ports and four TRUE pass-through DMX connections. The housing carries an IP20 rating and uses passive cooling without fans or ventilation holes, extending service life in environments exposed to dust, smoke, and moisture.
Power options include 110–250 V mains and PoE (IEEE 802.3af). A powerCON TRUE1 connector ensures secure connection, and the device maintains performance even at voltages up to 305 V.
Network and Media Integration
The GigaJet20 Pro incorporates a two-port 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet switch and an SFP slot for fibre connectivity. This design eliminates the need for external media converters, simplifying integration in networks combining copper and optical links. A third Ethernet port expands connection and redundancy options.
Protocol Compatibility
The unit supports a wide range of protocols:
- DMX512-A for fixture control.
- RDM (ANSI E1.20) for bidirectional management.
- Art-Net (v1–4) and sACN (Draft/Release) for Ethernet-based distribution.
- KiNET (v1, v2) for Philips LED systems.
- RTTrPL for specialized control tasks.
RDM filtering is implemented to suppress incompatible or unnecessary traffic, ensuring stability across mixed-protocol networks.
Signal Merging and Backup
The GigaJet20 Pro enables simultaneous input from multiple controllers with merging modes: HTP, LTP, AUTO, PRIORITY. These ensure coherent fixture behavior even when consoles issue conflicting commands. The device also provides backup functionality—if one data source fails, a secondary source immediately assumes control.
Trigger Inputs
Two dedicated trigger inputs allow automatic execution of preprogrammed scenes. In emergency scenarios such as fire alarms, the system can switch instantly to evacuation lighting or other safety presets. Triggers may also be used for routine automation, such as enabling maintenance modes.
Configuration and Interfaces
Configuration is accessible through:
- a web interface with fixed IP support,
- the ArtGate Setting utility,
- third-party Art-Net software,
- ARISTO system management tools.
Settings profiles can be stored and reused. LED indicators provide immediate feedback on operational status.
Reliability Features
All DMX ports are galvanically isolated. Passive cooling removes the risk of fan failure and ensures silent operation in theatres and studios. The unit incorporates watchdog monitoring and automatic reboot, protecting against firmware or network faults and minimizing downtime.
Place in the Sundrax Ecosystem
Within Sundrax’s product families, the GigaJet line is designed for high-bandwidth applications where Ethernet switching, fibre distribution, and multiport DMX conversion must be combined. It differs from the ArtGate series (flexible Ethernet-to-DMX conversion), PowerGate (signal over power lines), and DALIGate (DALI protocol integration). The GigaJet20 Pro represents the highest port density in this group.
Application Scope
The device is suited to environments requiring high scalability and redundancy:
- large theatres with distributed dimmer networks,
- touring productions with dense DMX requirements in compact racks,
- stadiums and arenas requiring fibre distribution,
- architectural lighting systems mixing DMX, sACN, and KiNET.
By combining converter, switch, and media converter functions, the unit reduces system complexity and hardware count.
Technical Specification
- Rack format: 19″, 2U, depth 11 cm, weight <1.5 kg
- Protection: IP20, fanless passive cooling
- Power: 110–250 V mains, PoE (IEEE 802.3af), powerCON TRUE1
- Voltage tolerance: up to 305 V
- Ethernet: 3 × 10/100/1000 Mbps ports, 1 × SFP slot
- DMX ports: 20 optically isolated, 4 TRUE pass-through
- Protocols: DMX512-A, RDM (ANSI E1.20), Art-Net v1–4, sACN, KiNET v1/v2, RTTrPL
- Merging modes: HTP, LTP, AUTO, PRIORITY
- Trigger inputs: 2
- Configuration: web interface, ArtGate Setting, third-party Art-Net, ARISTO
- Reliability: galvanic isolation, watchdog, auto-reboot
The GigaJet20 Pro consolidates converter, switch, and media functions into a compact rack unit. Its high DMX port density, protocol support, fibre integration, and redundancy features make it a backbone component for advanced stage, touring, and architectural lighting networks.