NETWORK SIGNAL

PROCESSOR
NSP

User’s Manual

05.2017
 Contents
1. Introduction 3
2. Controls and connection ports 5
3. Menu tree 7
4. The Menus 8
4.1 The Main Display 8
4.2 The Info menu 8
4.3 The Config menu 9
5. Update 13
6. Commissioning 13
7. Specifications 14
8. Inputs and outputs 14
9. Important safety instructions 15
10.DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY 16

2 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

1. Introduction

The NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR (NSP) can be used as a channel expansion or as an Artnet hub.
Up to 2048 channels can be output to 4 separate DMX universes. ARTNET and MA-NET can be used as
protocols.
Special Features:
- Simple handling due to few, distinct menus
- Free assignment of XLR outputs to 64 DMX universes.

Combinations possible with:

grandMA full size: as a channel expansion with maximum 16 NSPs on 32,768 DMX channels / 16,384
parameters.
grandMA2 full size: only extension of the DMX outputs by 4 x DMX per NSP
grandMA Ultralight: as a channel expansion with maximum 16 NSPs on 32,768 DMX channels / 16,384
parameters.
grandMA2 ultra-light: only extension of the DMX outputs by 4 x DMX per NSP
grandMA Light: as a channel expansion with maximum 16 NSPs on 32,768 DMX channels / 16,384
parameters.
grandMA2 light: only extension of the DMX outputs by 4 x DMX per NSP
grandMA Micro: Not possible, as the console can only network with the 3D Visualizer
offline / on PC: as a DMX output, for programming and playback, there is no “real” console necessary.
NOTE: Although you can run a grandMA 3D and a grandMA onPC/Offline with one loopback address on
a PC at the same time, network failures can occur when running both applications on a „real“ network
adapter (e.g. in order to connect a NSP or an external grandMA network). In this case, the installation
of a second network adapter, and, if needed, of a second graphics adapter, can solve the occurring
problems; in case of doubt, contact our technical service.

NOTE: The NSP is equipped with a data throughput of 100MBit - when used in a network with higher
data throughput, the network must be equipped accordingly.

MA NETWORK:
The NSPs can be configured on the console from the TOOLS menu or from the NSP menus.
Updating the software can be performed in no time from the console. Using NSPs, depending on the
console, up to a maximum of 16,384 parameters on 64 DMX lines are possbile for 16 NSPs.

DMX OUT A

B
100 MBit - see annex
C

NSP
grandMA range
or grandMA 2 series
switch DMX OUT A
100 MBit
B

NSP

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 ARTNET:
This protocol can only handle up to 4,096 channels. Below this limit, it is possible to run ARTNET and
MA-NET simultaneously, above it, there will be an automatic switch over to MA-NET. ARTNET nodes
can only be configured in the NSP menu.
Note: The NSP cannot be updated from the console and will not be visible under SETUP /
SOFTWARE UPDATE. In order to update it, set the NSP to MA-NET.

DMX OUT A

NSP

switch DMX OUT 1/1(A)

10/100 MBit
1/2 (B)

1/3 (C)
Example: grandMA with 1 NSP in MA-NET and
1/4 (D)
one ARTNET node; 4 universes with 4,096 DMX
outputs maximum.
ARTNET NODE

NSP use on different consoles:

Max Param.w&oExten. Protocol for Protocol for Max channels Max channels*
Max Param. w Exten. <4096channels >4096channels with Exten. w x NSP
with Chip for x Universen

grandMA 2.048 MA-NET and MA-NET 32.768 16 NSPs

4.096 ARTNET 64 universes

grandMA 2.048 MA-NET and MA-NET 32.768 16 NSPs

Light 4.096 ARTNET 64 universes

grandMA 1.024 MA-NET and MA-NET 32.768 16 NSPs

Ultralight ARTNET 64 universes

grandMA 1.024 ARTNET --------- 1.024 noNSP

Micro 2 universes possible

grandMA 2.048 MA-NET and MA-NET 32.768 16 NSPs

Replay 4.096 ARTNET 64 universes

Offline ---- MA-NET and MA-NET 4.096 2 NSPs

/ onPC ARTNET 8 universes

4 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

2 controls and connection ports
ON / OFF switch
Keyboard port for a PS2 keyboard
Mouse port for a PS2 mouse
VGA port for a VGA monitor
Mouse, keyboard and monitor are
important e.g. for trouble shooting,
but are not necessary for setup and
operation

LINK NSP has an active network

connection
DATA displays the data
communication in the network
ACTV indicates that the NSP is
connected to the console and active
D O/P indicates that the NSP is
sending data (OUTPUT)
D I/P indicates that the NSP is
receiving data (INPUT)
A continuous tone indicates that an incompatible entry ERROR / BOOT NSP is booting or
has produced an error< the NSP will boot automatically using is on error
the setting before the changes

Vent - do not cover!

ETHERNET 10/100 - base T/X

for RJ 45 plug-in connection

Fuse T 1 A
Mains 230V

IN 2
MA-NET: No function in this version
ARTNET: IN jack for the THRU function, if OUT D is set to I/P.
Must not be assigned, if OUT D is set to O/P!
OUT B
ARTNET and MA-NET: IN 1
Only DMX output MA-NET: No function in this version
ARTNET: IN jack for the THRU function, if OUT C is set to I/P.
OUT A Must not be assigned, if OUT C is set to O/P!
ARTNET and MA-NET:
Only DMX output OUT D (THRU 2)
MA-NET: DMX output
ARTNET: DMX output (for O/P setting) or OUT jack for the
THRU function, if OUT D is set to I/P.

OUT C (THRU 1)
MA-NET: DMX output
ARTNET: DMX output (for O/P setting) or OUT jack for the
THRU function, if OUT C is set to I/P.

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 2 controls
There are 2 main menus you can scroll through using the PREV and NEXT keys or the Encoder. You
can rotate the Encoder or use it as a push button; depending on the respective menu, it has different
functions.

Navigating in the menu tree:

Vertical navigation:

turn left = up turn right = down

Horizontal navigation:
only possible, if a >
is displayed on the
right display margin.

Changing a setting:

select the menu (navigate using the keys and Encoder in the menu -
tree, see above)

pressing on the Encoder to enter changes
- The element that can be changed, will flash

rotating the Encoder to select a new setting

If multiple entries are possible in the menu, pressing on the Encoder
will bring you to the next entry field; you can select again by rotating
the Encoder (EDIT function)
- the red LED light up and a check mark at the right margin indicates
that a new selection has been made that you still to be confirm.

Confirm yours entry
- discard the setting with ESC - the previous setting will be kept
or
- confirm the new setting with OK (possible that the NSP will boot
automatically)

6 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

 Main display
3. The menu tree:
The menu tree gives you an
overview of all menus available.
INFO menu
shows information
about outputs, IP
addresses and time /
date

Setting the protocol

CONFIG menu
ARTNET to set and
assign e.g. outputs

CONFIG menu
MA-NET to set and
assign e.g. outputs

CONFIG menu,
general network
settings

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 4. The Menus
On the front side of the NSP, there is a back-lit LCD display. You can perform all settings using the four
keys on the side of the display and by rotating the wheel (so-called Encoder or data entry wheel).

4.1 The Main display

After switching on the NSP, the main display will appear on the LCD. Depending on the set protocol,
one of the followings screens will be displayed:

The NSP is active in the MA-Net

NSP <NAME>
A01 B02 C03 D04

The NSP is active in the ARTNET

A:-A:A B:-0:1
C:- 0:2 D:-0:3

The NSP is not active, because e.g. no compatible software had

NSP <NAME> been loaded. Update the NSP over the console - see also chapter
MA-NET inactive 5

4.2 The INFO menu

This menu contains only information relating to the NSP setup. You cannot make any changes in this
menu.
This is where the current mode, i.e. MA-NET EXPANSION or ARTNET
MA - Net Expansion DMX NODE, and the loaded software version are displayed.
S/W VERSION 5.xxx

IP ADDRESS > Displays the set IP address.

192.168.177.114

Displays the SUB-net mask.

SUB-NET MASK >
255.255.255.0

Displays the current time and date.

TIME: 17:20:33
DATE: 04/03/04

Using NEXT here, you can proceed to the Message Log.

MESSAGE LOG >

8 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

 Displays news, e.g. status messages.
NSP 01 >
Console Logged in

Displays the time and date of the received message.

TIME
DATE

4.3 The CONFIG menu

Here, you can change parameters. Some menus are protocol-specific and not visible while using other
protocols.

This is where the configuration menu starts.

CONFIG >

Use NEXT, to enter the MODE selection.

CONFIG > MODE >

Here, you can select the network mode>

CONFIG MODE > - MA - NET EXPANSION
XXXX - ARTNET DMX -NODE
- 4 Port DMX NODE

Having changed a parameter (red LEDs are on), confirm with NEXT.

Use NEXT, to enter the DMX configuration menu (only in ARTNET or MA-
CONFIG > DMX>
Net mode) .

Here, you can set the address or deactivate the output. Rotate the
CONFIG > DMX A> Encoder to select outputs A-D.
(ARTNET) XXXX - O/P to set the output to OUTPUT
- OFF the output is deactivated.
Note: Output A does only have these two options!

CONFIG > DMX A : Here, you can set the SUBNET and PORT addresses.
SUB-NET:1 PORT:1
By pressing on the Encoder, select the cell to be changed, by
rotating the Encoder, select the entry and then confirm with OK or ESC.

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 Only in ARTNET mode: Here, you can set the address or deactivate the
CONFIG > DMX B > output. Rotate the Encoder, to select outputs A-D.
(ARTNET) XXXX - O/P to set the output to OUTPUT.
- OFF the output is deactivated.
Note: Output B does only have these two options!

Here, you can set the SUBNET and PORT addresses.

CONFIG > DMX B :
By pressing on the Encoder, select the cell to be changed, by
SUB-NET:1 PORT:1 rotating the Encoder, select the entry and then confirm with OK or ESC.

Only in ARTNET mode: Here, you can set the address or deactivate the
CONFIG > DMX C > output. Rotate the Encoder to select outputs A-D.
(ARTNET) XXXX - O/P to set the output to OUTPUT - the (IN1) jack must not be
assigned any more!
- I/P to set the output to INPUT.
- OFF the output is deactivated.
Here, you can set the SUBNET and PORT addresses.
CONFIG > DMX C :
By pressing on the Encoder, select the cell to be changed, by
SUB-NET:1 PORT:1 rotating the Encoder, select the entry and then confirm with OK or ESC.

Only in ARTNET mode: Here, you can set the address or deactivate the
CONFIG > DMX D > output. Rotate the Encoder to select outputs A-D.
(ARTNET) XXXX - O/P to set the output to OUTPUT - the (IN1) jack must not be
assigned then!
- I/P to set the output to INPUT.
- OFF the output is deactivated.

Here, you can set the SUBNET and PORT addresses.

CONFIG > DMX D :
By pressing on the Encoder, select the cell to be changed, by
SUB-NET:1 PORT:1 rotating the Encoder, select the entry and then confirm with OK or ESC.

Only available in ARTNET, if outputs C and D have identical settings.

CONFIG > MERGER > Use NEXT, to proceed to setting the MERGER function.
(ARTNET) DMX C=D

Here, the highest input (HTP = Highest Takes Precedence) will be used.
CONFIG >MERGER

DMX C-HTP-D

Here, the latest input (LTP = Latest Takes Precedence) will be used.
CONFIG >MERGER

DMX C-LTP-D

Here, output C will be used, in case of a failure, it will switched over to

CONFIG >MERGER
output D.
DMX C-BACKUP-D

10 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

 ONLY IN MA-NET
CONFIG > DMX> Use NEXT, to proceed to assigning outputs A-D.

By pressing and then rotating the Encoder, select the universe to be

CONFIG >DMX A
assigned to this output (A - D).
UNIVERSE:1 (A) Having completed the entries, or if no changes were made, use the
Encoder to scroll to outputs A-D.

From here, you can enter the configuration menu on the Ethernet.
CONFIG > ETHERNET - mode

Use NEXT, to proceed to setting the IP address.

CONFIG>ETHERNET>
IP ADDRESS

Here, you can set the NSP IP address. Take care not to assign one
CONFIG EN>IPADR
IP address more than once!
192.168.105.001

Use NEXT , to proceed to changing the SUB-NET mask.

CONFIG>ETHERNET>
SUB-NET MASK

Here, you can enter the SUB-NET mask.

CONFIG EN>NASK

255.255.255.0

Use NEXT , to proceed to defining what to do when NSP failures

CONFIG>DMX>FAIL> occur (e.g. interruped network cable)

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 Here, you can set the output to be used in case of a NSP failure>
CONFIG>DMX>FAIL HOLD LAST OUTPUT: if no signal was received from the console, the
HOLD LAST OUTPUT last DMX signal will remain active.
FADE BLACK: if no signal comes in from the console, the DMX signal
will be set to 0 after a specified period of time.

As an addition, if FADE BLACK was set:

CONFIG>DMX>FAIL
FADE BLACK: xm xxs: if no signal comes in from the console, the DMX
FADE BLACK: xm xs
signal will be set to 0 after the period of time (5>59 minutes max.)
specified here.

TIME OUT : xm xxs: if no signal comes in from the console, the DMX
CONFIG>DMX>FAIL
signal will be set to 0 after the period of time (5>59 minutes max.)
TIME OUT : xm xs
specified here.

Use NEXT, to proceed to setting the date.

CONFIG>DATE>

CONFIG>DATE Here, you can set the current date.

DATE: 25/03/04

CONFIG>TIME> Use NEXT, to proceed to setting the time.

Here, you can set the current time of day.

CONFIG>TIME
TIME: 16:32:48

CONFIG>LANGUAGE> Use NEXT, to setting the language.

Here, you can set the display language.

CONFIG>LANGUAGE
Presently (version 5.0), only English is available.
English

12 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

Note:
If more than 4,096 parameters are to be used, you need a network having a transmission rate of 100
Mbit. Make sure that no components are linked to the network that would reduce the rate to 10 Mbit.
Consoles with the following serial numbers will be no problem in a network, as they already have a 100 Mbit
network adapter plus a 256 MB memory installed>

- grandMA as of SN 490
- grandMA Light as of SN 317
- grandMA UltraLight as of SN 232
- grandMA Replay Unit as of SN 38

Consoles having lower serial numbers, must be upgraded with 256 MB RAM and a 100 Mbit network adapter.

5. Update
The best and fastest way to update the NSP is via a network. In order to do this, the NSP must be in the
same network as the console (grandMA, grandMA-light, grandMA-ultralight , Offline, or onPC), i.e. the
first 3 groups of the IP address must be identical. On this console, the desired software version must
have been loaded.

set the NSP in CONIG MODE to MA-NET (not possible in ARTNET)

Mark the desired NSP on the console in SETUP / UPDATE SOFTWARE

start the update with UPDATE CONSOLE
- after the automatic reboot, the NSP should display the loaded software number in the INFO
window.

6. Commissioning
Before commissioning the NSP, please read the general Safety Instructions (see chapter 9) and follow
the material VDE or EN regulations!
The MA NSP can be mounted in a 19" rack (needs 1 U). To achieve a better stability, horizontal rack
bars should be used.

6.1 Fan control

Please provide for a sufficient air supply. A fan on the rear side will aspirate air and will blow it out
through a vent on the front side.

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 7. Specifications
Housing type: 19 inch 1U

Width : 483 mm (o.a.)

Height: 48.5 mm

Net mounting depth: 170 mm (w/o input or output plugs)

The actual gross depth depends on the plug type and of the cable outlet used.

Weight: 3.3 kg

Power supply 100 - 240 V AC via Euro plug. No switching of voltage necessary.

Fuse T1A (slow)

8. Inputs and outputs

8.1 DMX Input and Output

The DMX input complies with the USITT DMX 512 (1990) standard. Every device constructed according
to this standard, can trigger the MA NSP.

WARNING: If the C or D output is set to OUT, the ancillary IN jacks may not be
assigned, i.e. if the OUT C jack is set to OUT (from the CONFIG menu), the (IN 1) jack
may not be assigned – same applies to OUT D and (IN 2). A wrong assignment can lead
to the destruction of all devices connected or of the NSP!

The DMX input is protected against over-voltage with additional suppressor diodes and complies with
the RS485 or RS 422a standard.
The OUT C DMX output (Thru 1) is connected 1:1 (pins 1 through 3) with the (IN 1) DMX input. Same
applies to OUT D (Thru 2) with (IN 2).

Pin assignment: pin 1 = earth (not connected to ground)

pin 2 = Data - pin 4 = not assigned
pin 3 = Data + pin 5 = not assigned

Please note that all DMX devices are connected “in series” and that you cannot build y connections.
The DMX line has to be terminated by a 100 terminal resistance between pin 2 and 3.

Make the settings for DMX address etc. in the respective menus.

14 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .

9. Important Safety Instructions

1. Read all the instructions in the user’s manual.

2. Keep the user’s manual for later use.
3. Follow all cautions and warnings indicated on the unit.
4. Pull the mains plug before cleaning the unit; don’t use any liquid or spray cleanser. Clean with a dry
cloth.
5. Do not use the unit near water.
6. Do not place the unit on unstable surfaces. It might fall down and be damaged.
7. Do not block or cover any ventilation slots in the housing - they guarantee the reliable functioning of
the unit and protect it against overheating. Do not install the unit into a frame unless sufficient
ventilation is guaranteed.
8. The unit is provided with a safety plug. This plug can only be used with safety sockets.
9. Do not place any objects on the power cord. Protect it from being walked on or pinched particularly
at plugs and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
10. If using an extension cord, make sure the rated output of all units connected in aggregate does not
exceed the maximum rated output of the extension cord.
11. Do not spill any liquid over the unit! Do not insert any objects through the slots of the unit, as these
could get in contact with live parts or could cause short circuits. This may cause fires and electric
shocks.
12. Only use power cords which are marked as safety-proof.
13. Do not use any high-power walkie-talkies or cellular phones near the unit.
14. The unit should be serviced by qualified personnel only, as live parts may be exposed when opening
and/or removing coverings; besides others, you run the risk of suffering an electric shock. All service
work should be exclusively performed by qualified service technicians.
15. If one of the following conditions occurs, please pull the mains plug and call the customer service!
A. Power cord or mains plug is damaged or worn.
B. Liquid has penetrated into the unit.
C. The unit was exposed to rain or high ambient humidity.
D. Having observed all regulations, the unit would not function properly. Do only manipulate the
controls mentioned in the instructions, as wrong settings on other controls may damage the
unit; all too often, it is very time-consuming to have damaged parts repaired by a service
technician.
E. The unit dropped to the floor and the housing was damaged.

NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR

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 10. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Manufacturer’s name: MA Lighting Technology GmbH

Manufacturer’s address: Dachdeckerstraße 16
D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn
Germany
declares that the product

Product category: Control unit

Name of product: MA NETWORK SIGNAL PROCESSOR (NSP)
complies with the following product specifications and harmonized standards :

Safety: EN60065, EN60950

EMV (EMC): EN55103-1 (E1), EN50081-1

EN55103-2 (E2), EN50082-

Additional Information: DMX512 input and output cables must be shielded and
the shielding must be connected to the earthing resp. to
the housing of thecorresponding plug.
Furthermore, the NSP and alle connected devices must
be grounded safely.

Waldbüttelbrunn, April 01, 2004

Dipl. Ing. Michael Adenau

16 MA Lighting Technology GmbH . Dachdeckerstr. 16 . D-97297 Waldbüttelbrunn .