
Effective facade control requires matching the right protocol and controller to project requirements. Simple installations may need only scheduled scene changes, while media facades demand sophisticated content management. We design control architectures that balance capability with usability.
CONTROL PROTOCOLS
DMX512
LEARN MORE →Industry-standard protocol for reliable fixture control. 512 channels per universe, daisy-chain topology.
SPECIFICATIONS
BEST FOR
Art-Net
Ethernet-based protocol for large-scale installations. Multiple universes over standard network infrastructure.
SPECIFICATIONS
BEST FOR
sACN (E1.31)
Streaming ACN for high-performance network control. Native multicast support for efficient data distribution.
SPECIFICATIONS
BEST FOR
Pixel SPI
High-speed serial protocol for individual pixel control. Direct driver communication for animations.
SPECIFICATIONS
BEST FOR
CONTROLLER TYPES
Stand-alone Controllers
Self-contained units for simple installations. Astronomical clock, scenes, and schedules.
Media Servers
Advanced content management and playback. Real-time processing for complex animations.
Building Integration
Connection to BMS and building automation. KNX gateway integration for coordinated control.
Cloud/Remote
Web-based monitoring and control. Remote scene changes and diagnostics.
PROGRAMMING WORKFLOW
Fixture Addressing
Assign unique addresses to each fixture or fixture group
Patching
Map fixtures to controller outputs in software
Scene Programming
Create static and dynamic lighting scenes
Scheduling
Set time-based triggers and astronomical events
Testing
Night-time commissioning and fine-tuning
Documentation
Complete as-built records and user training
CRITICAL CONSIDERATIONS
INFRASTRUCTURE
- • Plan cable routes early in construction
- • Include network infrastructure for Art-Net/sACN
- • Ensure accessible equipment locations
RELIABILITY
- • Build in redundancy for critical systems
- • Specify surge protection
- • Plan for remote monitoring and alerts
DEEP DIVE: CONTROLS KNOWLEDGE BASE
Comprehensive technical guides on DALI, DMX, KNX, and wireless protocols.
NEED CONTROL SYSTEM DESIGN?
Our controls team designs, programs, and commissions facade control systems for any project scale.
