Simply stated, wireless DMX is a way of getting DMX data from “point A to point B” without using cable. DMX cable and the labor to install it are expensive, and using wireless DMX can save time and money as well as allowing DMX data to be run to places that cable can’t reach, such as across a river, a highway, or to the top of a tall building.

If you are in the field of entertainment technology you are familiar with DMX. (The official terminology is DMX512-A but I’ll refer to it in its common usage in this paper, DMX.) DMX is the communications protocol that was created by the entertainment industry in order to have a common language for lighting controllers to speak to lighting devices such as dimmers or color scrollers. It enables any lighting controller from any manufacturer to communicate with any lighting device from any other manufacturer.

Read more in our White Paper: What You Need To Know About Wireless DMX.

All previous wireless DMX control systems have suffered from a basic limitation: they are only able to transmit and receive a few universes of DMX data before their radio energy overpowers the spectrum and prevents their signals, and the signals of other devices in the venue, from accomplishing their mission.

With this constraint, large scale multiple universe wireless systems simply have not been possible to achieve. In addition, the broadcast spectrum in which DMX systems operate has become overcrowded with other radio signals, causing additional interference issues. Faced with these challenges, City Theatrical began planning a new system of wireless lighting control that could be scaled up to unprecedented levels without overpowering the spectrum.

Read more in our White Paper: How Advances in Wireless DMX Will Change the Way We Do Lighting.

More Data, Less Disruptive Energy

We achieved our goal of more data using less radio energy with the creation of our Multiverse Module. Multiverse Modules are the embodiment of breakthrough Multiverse technology, and every product in the Multiverse wireless DMX system is built around these tiny circuit board mounted devices.

Using these new radios, Multiverse products can deliver much more DMX data while producing much less disruptive radio energy.

Designed For OEM Partners

Multiverse Modules are best suited for lighting equipment manufacturers who are interested in adding wireless DMX to their products. Due to low cost, increased data transport, and ease of design integration, the Multiverse Module marks the first time that the implementation of a wireless DMX chip in every DMX device is possible.

The Multiverse Module is available in 2.4GHz. This frequency version can include a PCB trace antenna or not. All versions have a U.FL connector to connect to an external antenna.

OEM Implementation

Multiverse Modules (Part Numbers: 5990, 5991, 5994, and 5995) are available on reels for surface mounting. The OEM Implementation Kit includes a detailed guide, equipment, test gear, and more. Contact City Theatrical for more information.

Learn more about OEM Manufacturing opportunities.

Key topics covered in the Introduction to Multiverse Wireless DMX/RDM Webinar include:

• 3:23: Wireless DMX Resources
• 8:44: Breakthrough features of Multiverse technology
• 11:58: 2.4GHz and 900MHz bands comparison 
• 15:39: Wireless RDM for setup and troubleshooting

Multiverse Receiver Card

Part Number:

• 5906 (2.4GHz)

Wireless DMX/RDM receivers that any lighting user can use to implement wireless DMX/RDM into entertainment projects or lighting equipment in a simple way

Available in 2.4GHz band, Multiverse Receiver Cards are full Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM receivers without the housing, XLR connectors, and user interface as used in wireless DMX receiving products like the Multiverse Node and Multiverse SHoW Baby. Multiverse Receiver Cards include an internal antenna and a connection to an optional external antenna. Configuration for Multiverse Receiver Cards is done via RDM with DMXcat® Multi Function Test Tool, or with City Theatrical’s USB Configuration Program for PC/Mac.

In addition to receiving wireless DMX and outputting wired DMX, the Multiverse Receiver Card can output 0-10V, and has four PWM control outputs.

Key topics in the Multiverse Receiver Card Webinar include: 

• 7:22: Setting up Multiverse Receiver Card (basic) 
• 10:28: Using USB Configurator
• 13:49: Setting up point to point, Single universe system
• 15:28: Advanced mode

New! Multiverse Connect Module

Part Numbers:

• 5914 (2.4GHz)
• 5915 (900MHz - licensed for use in North America only)
  
  
  

Multiverse Connect Modules are Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM* receivers encased in ABS plastic.

Multiverse Connect Modules are small devices that bring all the capabilities of Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM to a lighting fixture built by an OEM manufacturing partner of City Theatrical, such that the fixture has a Universal Connect Module socket build into it. The chassis of the device plugs into the fixture, and with a few menu changes on your fixture, it becomes wireless using the Multiverse Connect Module.

City Theatrical's Multiverse Connect Module is the winner of LDI Show 2023's Lighting Award in the Controls Category! Learn more in Live Design Magazine.

Multiverse SHoW Baby

Part Number: 5900 (2.4GHz) 


The Fourth Generation Of The Original Plug And Play Wireless DMX Transceiver System

With tens of thousands of units sold since their introduction in 2011, SHoW Baby plug and play transceivers set the standard for ease of use and reliability at an affordable price point. The addition of Multiverse radio technology enhances the performance even more.

City Theatrical’s new Multiverse SHoW Baby is a wireless DMX transceiver that delivers breakthrough plug and play wireless DMX and RDM transmission. In its default mode, it works like all other legacy SHoW Baby Transceivers, including SHoW Baby 6, with six user selectable SHoW IDs. By connecting an RDM controller, like DMXcat® Multi Function Test Tool, all of the revolutionary new 2.4GHz Multiverse SHoW IDs are accessible.

Users can add to their existing SHoW DMX SHoW Baby® systems, build new single universe Multiverse systems, or use Multiverse SHoW Baby as a receiver on multiple universe systems with a Multiverse Transmitter.

Multiverse Node

Part Number:

• 5903 (2.4GHz) 
  
  

Single Universe Plug And Play Simplicity

The Multiverse® Node is the first building block of the Multiverse system. Each Multiverse Node is a transceiver. As a single universe transmitter, it functions in a similar plug and play manner to our SHoW DMX SHoW Baby®, but contains two radios (5902 version for the Americas only) and a full user interface, with four buttons and a backlit LED display.

As a receiver, Multiverse Node is the primary single universe standalone receiver in the Multiverse system, and can be part of a larger multi-universe setup.

Multiverse Vero Transceiver

Part Number:

• 7400-5903 (2.4GHz)
  
  
  

The Next Generation Of The Original Vero Wireless DMX Transceiver System for Outdoor Installations       

The Multiverse Vero Transceiver 2.4GHz brings the advanced features of the Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM system to outdoor installations for architecture and entertainment. The 7400-5902 Multiverse Vero Transceiver 900MHz/2.4GHz contains two radios, 2.4GHz (for worldwide use) and 900MHz (for use in the Americas only), which allows the user to select which radio band to use via the Multiverse SHoW ID. The Multiverse Vero Transceiver is housed in a NEMA 4 / IP66 package that provides protection from the outdoor elements. Its internal backlit LCD display simplifies setup and gives feedback on system performance. Each unit comes with a dual band 2.5dBi Outdoor Omni-directional Antenna.

The Multiverse Vero Transceiver includes a provided mounting Bracket Base that can be used to mount the device to a surface or vertical pipe.

Key topics covered in this webinar video include:

• 8:00 – Surface Mounting 
• 10:39 – Powering up the unit 
• 14:38 – Broadcast planning
• 17:25 – Menu settings
• 20:07 – Transmitter mode
• 23:12 – Judging signal quality

Multiverse Transmitter

Part Number:

• 5911 (2.4GHz (x2) - up to 10 universes)
  
  
  Multiple Universe Control        
  
  The Multiverse® Transmitter opens a new world in wireless DMX/RDM. Its Ethernet input allows it to take in Streaming ACN (sACN) or Art-Net and to transmit between eight and 10 user-selectable universes of DMX/RDM, depending on the type of Multiverse Transmitter product used, with the ability to use less radio energy than a present-day single universe wireless DMX transmitter.
  
  The Multiverse Transmitter has a Bluetooth radio receiver built in that allows it to communicate with City Theatrical’s multi award winning DMXcat® app from the user’s smartphone. This gives the user smartphone control of any lighting fixture that is part of the Multiverse setup, whether it is a lighting fixture with a Multiverse Module inside, a lighting fixture receiving its data from a Multiverse Node, or any wired fixture downstream of those devices.
  
  The Multiverse Transmitter is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing for communication and control from tablet-based Wi-Fi lighting controllers like Luminair.

Key topics covered in the Multiverse Transmitter Webinar include::

• 8:39: Understanding SHoW IDs 
• 13:43: Using DMXcat to set up Transmitter 
• 18:28: Point to multipoint broadcast plan
• 18:46: Signal Quality Gauge
• 21:15: Testing your wireless DMX setup

QolorFLEX Multiverse Dimmers

Part Numbers:

QolorFLEX 5x2.5A Multiverse Dimmers

• 5943 (2.4GHz)

QolorFLEX 2x2.5A Multiverse Dimmers

• 5917 (2.4GHz) 
  
  

QolorFLEX 5x2.5A Multiverse Dimmers     

The QolorFLEX 5x2.5A Multiverse Dimmer is a constant voltage, five-output dimmer that can be controlled wirelessly using City Theatrical’s Multiverse wireless DMX* or SHoW DMX Neo wireless DMX/RDM technology, or with wired DMX. This dimmer provides 20-bit PWM resolution and six DMX personality options (including: 8-bit (5ch), 16-bit (10ch), 8-bit Tunable White Single (2ch), 16-bit Tunable White Single (4ch), 8-bit Tunable White (4ch), and 16-bit Tunable White (8ch)) for extremely smooth dimming at the low end of the dimming curve. It uses detachable input and output connectors to make wiring easy. Configuration is performed using RDM, such as with a City Theatrical DMXcat®, or with City Theatrical’s USB Configuration program for PC/Mac. A mounting bracket is included with the Dimmer to allow easy mounting to scenery. It pairs perfectly with QolorFLEX 5-in-1 LED Tape for ideal use in props and costumes, or for areas where space is a concern.

QolorFLEX 2x2.5A Multiverse Dimmers 

QolorFLEX 2x2.5A Multiverse Dimmers are small, constant voltage, two-output dimmer designed to be mounted in small spaces such as props, costumes, wands, and candles. They can be controlled wirelessly using City Theatrical’s Multiverse or SHoW DMX Neo wireless DMX/RDM technology, or with wired DMX. These dimmers provide 20-bit PWM resolution and four DMX personality options (two variations of 8-bit and 16-bit control) for extremely smooth dimming at the low end of the dimming curve. Configuration is performed using RDM, such as with a City Theatrical DMXcat®, or with City Theatrical’s USB Configuration program for PC/MAC. A plastic case is included with the QolorFLEX 2x2.5A Multiverse Dimmer to allow easy mounting to scenery while enabling removal of the dimmer from the case for wiring and configuration.

QolorPIX Tape Controller, Eight Output

Multiverse Studio Receiver

Part Number:

• 5905 (2.4GHz)
  
  

20-Hour Battery Life Wireless DMX Receivers Designed for Film & Video

The Multiverse Studio Receiver brings the advanced features of the Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM system to the film and video world, where fast setup and reliability are key objectives. The Multiverse Studio Receiver contains a long-life lithium-ion polymer battery giving 20 hours of use. The Multiverse Studio Receiver has a full four button user interface with a backlit LED display that makes setup easy and gives feedback on system performance.

The 5904 Multiverse Studio Receiver contains two built-in radios, 2.4GHz (for worldwide use) and 900MHz (for use in the Americas only), and the 5905 Multiverse Studio Receiver contains a 2.4GHz radio, which allow the user to select which single universe to receive, and which radio band to use via the Multiverse SHoW ID.

The DMX corded connector allows the Multiverse Studio Receiver and external antenna to hang below the lighting fixture, giving improved data fidelity.

Multiverse Studio Kit

Part Number:

• 5939 (2.4GHz)
  
  

All the Tools Lighting Technicians Need to Quickly Plan, Setup, and Operate Wireless DMX/RDM on Set       

The Multiverse Studio Kit brings the advanced technology of Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM system to the film and video world, featuring Receivers with 20 hour battery life and contactless charging in an easy to use kit.

The Multiverse Studio Kit provides all the tools lighting technicians need to quickly plan, setup, and operate wireless DMX/RDM on set. It includes:

• Six battery powered Multiverse Studio Receivers
  
• One Multiverse Transmitter with hanging bracket and clamp (for multi universe broadcasts)
  
• One Multiverse Node with hanging bracket and clamp (for single universe broadcasts)
  
• One DMXcat Multi-Function Test Tool (to turn on and troubleshoot any lighting fixture on set)
  
• One RadioScan Spectrum Analyser (for broadcast planning)
  
• Various accessories to keep your equipment organized, mounted, and charged.
  

Just drop the Multiverse Studio Receiver onto its slot in the Multiverse Studio Kit case, and it will begin charging. Individual chargers and USB cables are also included to enable charging or powering individual units outside the case.

Multiverse Studio Add On Kit

Part Number:

• 5941 (2.4GHz)
  
  

Scalable Multiverse Wireless DMX In A Contactless Charging Case       

The Multiverse Studio Add On Kit brings the advanced technology of Multiverse wireless DMX/RDM system to the film and video world, featuring Multiverse Studio Receivers with 20 hour battery life and contactless charging in an easy to use kit.

Just drop the Multiverse Studio Receiver onto its slot in the Multiverse Studio Add On Kit case, and it will begin charging. Individual chargers and USB cables are also included to enable charging or powering individual units outside the case.

The Multiverse Studio Add On Kit provides six additional Multiverse Studio Receivers for users to expand upon their full P/N 5939 Multiverse Studio Kit.

DMXcat Multi Function Test Tool

Part Number: 6000

An Indispensable Tool for Lighting Users      

The DMXcat® system is designed for use by the lighting professional who is involved with the planning, installation, operation, or maintenance of theatrical and studio lighting equipment. The system consists of a small hardware interface device and a suite of mobile applications. Together, they combine to bring DMX/RDM control plus several other functionalities to the user’s smartphone for use wherever and whenever they are needed.

DMXcat hardware is built into every Multiverse Transmitter. This means you can now access, configure, and control your Multiverse Transmitter with the free DMXcat app. DMXcat technology means that you no longer have to touch or even be close to your Multiverse Transmitter to make changes to it. Update your current DMXcat app or download it today to connect your Multiverse Transmitter.

DMXcat works with: Android, iPhone, and Amazon Fire.

New! DMXcat-E

Part Number: 6100

Expanding the DMXcat System to Include Ethernet and More

Shipping in 2024, City Theatrical‘s new! DMXcat-E™ (P/N 6100) is an expansion to City Theatrical’s DMXcat® Multi Function Test Tool system of solutions that allows for Ethernet control of a lighting fixture. In addition to all the functions DMXcat users currently enjoy, including utilization of the DMXcat free smartphone application for iPhone and Android to plan, install, operate, and maintain theatrical and studio lighting equipment, DMXcat-E allows users to view and send Ethernet protocols, including ArtNet and Streaming ACN (sACN).

Key topics covered in this Test Tools for Wireless DMX Webinar include:

• 6:08: Radio Theory
• 22:45: DMXcat
• 27:04: Simple wireless DMX setup

RadioScan Spectrum Analyser

Part Number: 5988


Easily Visualise Radio Energy and Create Broadcast Plans

RadioScan Spectrum Analyser is a 2.4GHz spectrum analyser (includes a RadioScan hardware dongle and accompanying free RadioScan software) that enables you to easily visualise radio energy that is otherwise invisible to you. Using RadioScan helps you to create a broadcast plan that optimizes available spectrum in your area, and helps prevent interference with other mission critical radio devices near you.

RadioScan shows all radio activity near you in your chosen frequency, including frequency hopping gear like wireless DMX, as well as Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth, wireless headsets, video transmitters, cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens. RadioScan can view spectrum data either in Spectrogram View or Waterfall View, and snapshots can be taken of both in the program. Scans of any length can be recorded, saved, emailed and played back with the RadioScan software, without the need for the RadioScan hardware dongle.

For users of Multiverse® wireless DMX/RDM products, RadioScan will guide you in creating the optimum broadcast plan for your production.

Wireless DMX Accessories, including Antennas

Enhancing the performance of Multiverse® Wireless DMX/RDM products

City Theatrical Wireless DMX Accessories, including Antennas, enhance the performance of Multiverse® Wireless DMX/RDM products, such as the Multiverse SHoW Baby®, Multiverse Node, Multiverse Vero, Multiverse Studio Receiver, and Multiverse Transmitter, as well as SHoW DMX Vero® and other legacy wireless DMX products by City Theatrical, including SHoW DMX SHoW Baby® or SHoW DMX Neo® with Maximum Bandwidth Technology™.

These wireless DMX accessories can also be helpful if you're looking to replace parts that came with the product in the original box.