[SML] Building custom DMX relay box

[Richard Niederberg]

/s/ Richard
_________


On Sat, Jan 31, 2026 at 11:35 PM Joe via Stagecraft <
stagecraft at theatrical.net> wrote:

> I am working to make a custom DMX to Relay box.  The circuit board has
> Relays installed, and the power connections and DMX connections are all
> screw terminals.
> The reason I am not simply using a dimmer pack set to serve as on/off only
> mode, is that I have both 120v and 12vDC voltages. The 12vDC will be to
> trigger sprinkler valves that are part of two air-cannons. The 120v will be
> to power a miniature xenon strobe.   Though, perhaps I can use a standard
> dimmer pack, and just plug 12vDC power supplies for the two channels I need
> the DC control.  I am a little concerned that the inductive relays on the
> water valves may not play well with my 12v wall warts.  I suppose some
> diodes at the solenoid may solve that.
>
> Note that the DMX, 3-channel Relay module I have, has screw terminals for
> all in/outputs.
>
> When I have made a similar custom pack in the past. I obtained some XLR
> Panel connectors.  But, drilling the holes in the box was both frustrating
> and not really good enough, even if I got it to function.  I looked for,
> but didn't find any generic pre-punched panels to attach the two XLR
> connectors. Though, I did find ones with 4 or 8 locations.
> Also, the box has to provide for the 120vAC, and 12vDC in/out.  In the
> past, I just used cut extension cords, with a strain relief. The 12v was
> easy, just a circular panel mount outlet.
>
> I feel I am somehow not finding the right stuff to do this easily, and
> professional looking.
>
> As I wright this, I think I am convincing myself to just use a standard
> DMX dimmer pack.  But, decided to go ahead and post, in case anyone has
> anything to suggest.
>
> Are there any 4-channel dimmer or relay packs that are for lower wattage,
> and so are packaged without the weight/size of the higher wattage units?
> Perhaps in the form factor of a power strip? I know heavy-weight often
> means rugged. But there is also a kind of ruggedness that comes with things
> that are small and light weight.
>
> -Joe
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