Inserting a Null Node in a pixel string

[11Bravo]

Forgive me if this subject has been posted before, but we all know how difficult something is to find at times when there is some much reading to weed thru. And I have done that and end up getting plumb lost and frustrated, and then forget about what in the heck I was searching for in the first place.

I believe this is simple question for you experts. The subject is: Null Node. I have read about what it is and it's purpose.  What I don't get is,  in three a wire node string, which wires are connected when the null pixel is inserted into a string of pixels?

Thanks for the help
Ken

[Gilrock]

Its wired like any normal pixel the controller will just insert an extra set of zero data in the stream to be consumed by the null node so it's actually a real pixel that receives a zero to keep it dark.

[JonB256]

Let's assume you have a pixel string on a gutter that will be 55 lighted pixels.

and, the distance from the controller to "first pixel" is long enough to need one or more Null Pixels.

If you configure the controller to have 3 null pixels, it will actually send 58 pixels worth of data on the output, but the first 3 will always be Zero so that they stay dark. Since pixel cost runs from $0.25 to $0.50 each, this can be pretty economical if you are willing to cut and splice to get the distance.

The other option is to use Corey's uAmp device. It serves the same purpose as a Null Pixel (extending the distance to First Pixel) but your software and hardware don't know or care that it is there. (i.e., it works with any 3-wire protocol pixel strings - just solder it in line). A single uAmp can usually carry you 30feet or more with good wiring. Maybe 100ft with better wire or Coax.

[Phrog30]

A single uAmp can usually carry you 30feet or more with good wiring. Maybe 100ft with better wire or Coax.

I'm getting 40ft without null pixels or uamp on "standard" cable and over 60ft on cat5.

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[JonB256]

Phrog30, you are fortunate to get that distance on plain wire. (Cat5 is pretty good, though)
Others won't be so lucky. It can depend on many factors (controller, cable noise, moisture, and more) And it might work this year but drive you NUTZ next year when it doesn't due to cable or pixel aging.

[Gilrock]

Isn't it the folks that spent $1000 of cabling that always say that?

[Phrog30]

Isn't it the folks that spent $1000 of cabling that always say that?

Are you talking to me? If so, you are not even close.

Perhaps I'm not fortunate, but just doing it correctly.

James

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[Gilrock]

Why would you think I'm talking to you?  I use Cat5 just like you said you do and I'm tired of hearing people try to tell me there's a problem with it just because they blew a wad a cash on more expensive cable.

[11Bravo]

Its wired like any normal pixel the controller will just insert an extra set of zero data in the stream to be consumed by the null node so it's actually a real pixel that receives a zero to keep it dark.

So, I have to tell the controller that a null pixel is in the string? 
I hope that isn't difficult to do in a E682 or E6804.

[Phrog30]

Its wired like any normal pixel the controller will just insert an extra set of zero data in the stream to be consumed by the null node so it's actually a real pixel that receives a zero to keep it dark.

So, I have to tell the controller that a null pixel is in the string? 
I hope that isn't difficult to do in a E682 or E6804.

Yes. I've never used SanDevices, but I would assume they are like most boards where you just enter the number of null pixels.

James

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[babybear]

on the E882 you can enter null pixels at the beginning of each string/output.  Done in the web page just set the number of how many, on the E6804 you can only set nulls for each group not each output. Also on either controller you can not add nulls in the middle of a string, just at the begging.  On the E862 you can not run much more than 20 feet with out nulls inserted. Talking from experience. Its also noted in their manual. 

[11Bravo]

Thanks I will keep this noted when I eventually wire it all up.