Use the chart below to convert the RJ45 outputs to XLR based on the ANSI E1.27-2 standard. Pre-made cables can also be purchased through ENTTEC or other vendors. The table below can be used for shielded and unshielded cables.
Function | RJ45 pin | Core Colour (terminated to TIA/EIA-568-B standard) | DMX (XLR5) |
DMX Data + | 1 | Orange White | Pin 3 |
DMX Data - | 2 | Orange | Pin 2 |
N/C | 3 | Green White | |
N/C | 4 | Blue | |
N/C | 5 | Blue White | |
N/C | 6 | Green | |
Ground | 7 | Brown White | Pin 1 |
N/C | 8 | Brown |
At ENTTEC, we often specify using Shielded Cat6 for DMX runs to reduce the chances of installations being impacted with high EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference). This isn’t crucial for all installations since the DMX data is already transported using twisted pairs. However, it is a way to mitigate any risks.
If your cable has one, the shield layer and the drain wire should be connected to the electrical ground (earth) separately to the device’s data connections. This should never be attached to pin 7 (data GND - 0V).