DMX Tool
DMX Patch Sheet Generator
Auto-pack fixtures across DMX universes and export clean patch sheets.
What a DMX patch sheet is
A patch sheet lists every fixture with its universe, start address, and channel footprint. It keeps operators, techs, and consoles aligned.
Why overlaps happen
Overlaps usually come from manual counting, fixture mode changes, or last-minute adds. This tool packs fixtures sequentially so every channel is unique.
Who this tool is for
- Lighting techs building patches on site
- Operators who need quick, reliable addressing
- Rental teams prepping rigs before load-in
How to generate a DMX patch sheet
- Set your starting universe and address.
- Add your fixtures and channel counts.
- Enter quantities or duplicate rows.
- Generate the patch sheet.
- Export or print your results.
Global settings
Define where packing starts and how many channels each universe allows.
Fixture table
Add fixture rows, then duplicate them when you need similar fixtures.
| Fixture name | Channels per fixture | Quantity | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
Patch sheet output
One row per physical fixture. Addresses are 3-digit padded.
Address notation note
Some consoles display addresses as 1.001, others as U1 / 001. This tool uses industry-standard 1-based addressing. Always confirm console display preferences when entering addresses.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this DMX patch sheet with GrandMA / Chamsys / ETC?
Yes. The generated patch sheet uses standard universe + start address notation that works with all major consoles. Exported CSV files can be imported or referenced directly.
How many fixtures fit in one DMX universe?
That depends on channel count per fixture. A universe has 512 channels. For example, 13-channel fixtures allow up to 39 fixtures per universe (39 x 13 = 507).
Does this tool support 16-bit fixtures?
Yes. Just enter the total channel count for the fixture mode. 16-bit parameters already count as two channels.
Does this tool prevent overlapping addresses?
Yes. Fixtures are packed sequentially and never share channels. If a fixture does not fit, the tool automatically moves to the next universe.
Tool limitations
This tool focuses on fast, reliable addressing. It does not:
- Load fixture libraries or profiles.
- Optimize patching for console-specific workflows.
- Save patches between sessions (yet).
For advanced workflows, see our upcoming tools or guides.
DMX addressing notes
How DMX universes work
Each universe holds 512 channels. Fixtures consume a block of channels based on their mode.
DMX universe explainedCommon addressing mistakes
- Reusing an address after changing a fixture mode.
- Forgetting to move to the next universe when a fixture no longer fits.
- Mixing 1-based and 0-based address labeling on paper vs console.
When to leave gaps
Leave space when fixtures get swapped often or when you expect mode changes. Otherwise, pack tightly to keep wiring simple.
8-bit vs 16-bit channels
16-bit parameters consume two DMX channels. Always confirm the channel count for the selected mode before patching.
8-bit vs 16-bit DMXNot sure how many fixtures fit?
Use the capacity calculator to estimate fixtures per universe before you build a full patch sheet.
DMX capacity calculatorWorking on larger rigs?
If you regularly patch complex shows, multi-universe rigs, or time-coded setups, Y-Link is built for precision playback and deterministic control.
Learn about the Y-Link platform