Related guides

• DMX Patch Lists & Channel Planning
• DMX Addressing Chart
• How Many Universes Do You Need?

Les på norsk: DMX-kanalplanlegging

DMX Channel Planning Best Practices

Use this fast method to plan channels, avoid overlaps, and keep your show stable.

1) Pick modes before you patch

• Lock fixture modes that give you the features you need without wasting channels.
• Write them down before touching addresses.

2) Block channels, don't eyeball

• Assign start addresses as blocks: start + channel count – 1.
• Leave a 1–2 channel buffer when mixing fixture types.

3) Use a patch sheet (and freeze it)

• Document: fixture name, mode, channel count, start address, end address, universe.
• Save a copy before show day; change one thing at a time.

4) Test timing and jitter

• Run a slow pan/tilt and a smooth dimmer ramp to spot overlaps or jitter.
• If things flicker, re-check termination and address math.

5) When to add another universe

• When a block forces you to run past channel ~480.
• When you need more 16-bit movement without sacrificing color control.

Copy/paste mini checklist

1. Lock fixture modes
2. Write channel counts
3. Assign start/end addresses with buffers
4. Fill a patch sheet
5. Test smooth fades and movement
6. Add universes before you run out

Need an example? Pair this with DMX Patch Lists & Channel Planning and DMX Addressing Chart.

Free tools

• DMX Patch Sheet Generator – auto-pack fixtures across universes and export clean patch sheets.
• DMX Address Capacity Calculator – see how many fixtures fit per universe and how many universes you need.