Lighting and control
LumenRadio Stardust
Distribute lighting data across several zones with compatible receivers, a universe map and a prepared cable alternative.
Model and connections
| Model and connections | LumenRadio Stardust |
|---|---|
| Model | Stardust, SKU 800-2281 |
| Input | Ethernet or Wi-Fi; Art-Net / sACN |
| Capacity | 8 universes in CRMX²; 4 in CRMX Classic or W-DMX G3/G4S |
| Version | April 9, 2026 manual for firmware 1.5.0 or later |
Show scenario
For a ballroom with a stage, dance floor and perimeter lights, we propose separate universes and a test at every final position. Wireless control does not supply fixture power.
Universes and sources: separate network, radio and merging
Begin a useful test with one data source. Stardust tracks up to four sources per output; equal-priority sources merge by HTP, retaining the highest value for each channel. If one source holds intensity high, lowering the other source’s fader may not turn the light off. Art-Net does not use priority in the manual and identifies sources by IP; sACN identifies them by CID.
For an example map, one output can receive sACN universe 1. If Art-Net is selected instead, record its fields in Net/SubNet/Universe order: 0/0/0 and 0/0/1 are different destinations. A controller may label its first universe 1 while transmitting a different numbering value; verify packets or the applicable controller documentation rather than automatically converting numbers.
An enabled output without network data, a linked radio and an addressed fixture are separate states. Trace the complete chain. A Linking Key does not replace the universe map or by itself provide a tested redundant switchover.
- Record source/IP or CID, protocol, network universe, enabled output, radio mode and receivers for each zone. Preserve existing settings.
- Outside the performance, let only the intended source transmit. Check incoming data per output first; if missing, check transmission, network interface and destination before relinking.
- Confirm protocol and capacity: four-universe modes disable alternating outputs. Do not change fixture addresses to troubleshoot a disabled output.
- Test known intensity and shutter values on one fixture. Add a second source only when required by the design and check priorities, HTP and return after removing the main source.
- Rehearse the agreed backup including switch, receiver, power and alternative cable. Measure the result and document who decides to change routes.
We can assess zone distribution, receivers and networking, prepare a map, configure sources and operate the show. Backup may require a node, cabling or another path; define it using date, venue and cue criticality even without a floor plan.
Prepare the system
- Record transmitter, receiver, firmware and DMX profile details; preserve existing settings.
- Fit the correct antennas before powering up; prepare unique network addresses and document the output protocol.
- Map each network universe to an output and select a compatible radio mode. Link only the intended receivers.
- Rehearse coverage, cues and recovery at actual positions; label the alternative cable route.
Questions and solutions
Will eight universes work with every receiver?
No. CRMX² requires compatible receivers and firmware. CRMX Classic provides four universes; mixed modes change capacity. Identify the receivers before finalizing the patch.
Why is Stardust visible but the lights do not respond?
Access to its interface does not prove DMX data is arriving. Check output data status, sender protocol, universe and network. Then check linking, address and personality with one test fixture.
Should Art-Net and sACN use the same number?
Do not assume so. sACN selects a universe; Art-Net uses Net, SubNet and Universe. Compare the actual destination with the controller’s numbering and test one known channel before duplicating settings.
Can I change radio protocol during a show?
The manual requires receivers to be linked again after a radio protocol change. Schedule and verify that change before the performance; do not start troubleshooting by unlinking every receiver.
Does the battery back up the entire system?
It backs up only the transmitter, not fixtures, external receivers or switches. The manual excludes internal backup at 280 mW. Plan power and recovery for the complete chain without promising show-length battery operation.
How can we prepare an alternative for a failed zone?
As a proposed rehearsal, compare one fixture over a wired DMX path and record which changed segment affects the result. Assess cable routing, a node and operator support for critical zones rather than assuming a radio fault.
Why does a light stay on when my controller shows zero?
With equal-priority sources, HTP retains the highest value on each channel. Identify sources reaching that output and test one source outside the performance. Do not use sACN priority settings as an Art-Net fix: the manual treats these protocols differently.
Does cloning a transmitter provide automatic backup?
Do not assume so. The manual allows cloned credentials using Linking Key, but warns that cloned transmitters with overlapping coverage can cause an indeterminate receiver association. Agree on and rehearse the switchover architecture; do not improvise by placing two clones together.
Precautions
- IP20, dry indoor use; never power up without correctly fitted antennas.
- Use power supplies and antennas approved for the unit and region. Some electrical ranges differ between product page and manual: verify the rating label before selecting power.
Sources and documentation
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