Obsidian Control Systems has fulfilled the need for IP65-rated data distribution products in the entertainment industry and was rewarded for that effort at the recent PLASA tradeshow in London.
The NETRON EN6 IP, one of three devices in Obsidian’s new IP65 range of signal distribution, won a PLASA Award for Innovation 4th September at the 2023 exhibition.
The PLASA Award judges recognised the EN6 IP as a “device that brings lighting control distribution and format conversion to the outdoors at an accessible price point.”
The 6-port EN6 IP EtherDMX node, along with a 6-port RDM Splitter (RDM6 IP) and an 8-port managed POE switch (NS8 IP), is a ground-breaking innovation.
Despite the tremendous increase in outdoor performances and the immense amount of IP-rated entertainment technology on the market, until now, there has been no IP data distribution devices to provide the required infrastructure for shows and events.
The NETRON IP65 range blends the proven chassis and connector technology of Elation Professional’s market-leading IP65 Proteus range of lighting fixtures with the NETRON data platform.
Utilising a custom-designed die-cast body, impact-resistant paint, IP ports and touch controls, the NETRON IP65 range provides data distribution for any location that requires dust and moisture protection.
No longer does the lighting technician need to add questionable custom enclosures to ensure the integrity of the lighting system in adverse environments.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team’s tireless work and relentless pursuit of innovation as we continue to push the boundaries in entertainment controls,” stated Matthias Hinrichs, product manager at Obsidian Control Systems and Elation Professional.
“The NETRON EN6 IP, along with the entire IP65 range, represents a significant step forward in addressing the needs of the entertainment industry.
“A rugged IP-rated lighting data node that aligns with our leading Proteus range has been truly missing from the market and now lighting professionals can operate with greater confidence in any environment.”
Easy to configure via display, web interface or the NETRON CLU app through simple presets or when required for a detailed configuration of features, the EN6 IP offers up to 6 universes with full support for the industry-standard streaming sACN and Art-Net protocols.
It features up to 99 internal cues that can be set up to play in the event of data loss, ensuring audience and performer safety, or providing a dedicated scene even when the control system is offline.
A removable metal cover protects the display from impact, and the boxes are easily stackable via a simple and elegant internal magnetic alignment.
M10 or M12 clamp positions round out the chassis, and daisy chaining of power and gigabit Ethernet ensures fast and efficient deployment in the field. For added convenience, the EN 6IP can be powered by POE Ethernet.
The new devices are scheduled to hit the market later in 2023.
