DMX Interface
The DMX interface is used to control equipment that requires a DMX-512 input from a PFE Advanced 10 Outputs receiver. Typical applications include controlling smoke machines, confetti or streamer shooters and flame projectors.
The receiver needs to be equipped with the optionally available Terminal function. This allows the user to program multiple firing cues per output and determine the duration for which the outputs remain active.
The interface has a safety and five control inputs and is powered by the receiver. In general the safety input is used for the power supply. As soon as voltage is present on the safety input a DMX signal is generated. Numerous firmware versions with different channel assignments are available to control various DMX devices. The firmware can also easily be adjusted to meet new requirements that may arise.
Although DMX is considered an unsafe protocol (no checksums or other safety measures are implemented), the use of this interface is safe because the DMX signal is only generated if the interface is powered from the receiver’s output.
For the operation with the PFE Advanced 20 Outputs a 12V version is available. In 2025, a device with a wide voltage input will be introduced, making it compatibel with both receivers.
| Safety channel | Yes |
| Control channels | 5 + Safety |
| Connectors on the inputs | 4 mm banana plugs, fit in on every PFE Advanced receiver |
| Output | XLR, 5 pole |
| Control time with terminal function | 0.1 s to 25.0 s, Continuously On |
Customer-specific solutions like e.g. different channel assignments are easily possible.
Interface with isolated switching outputs:
This interface has two channels and can be used whenever a device requires a potential-free electrical contact for control. The outputs are optically isolated from the inputs.
Typical applications for this interface include the controlling of film and photo cameras, high-speed cameras along with smoke machines and various effect devices.
Typically it is used with a PFE Advanced 10 or 20 Outputs receiver equipped with the Terminal function allowing the duration for which the contacts remain closed to be programmed into the receiver’s memory. Multiple cues can be programmed into any output on the receiver.
| Channels | 2 |
| Maximum switching current | 1 A |
| Maximum switching voltage | 30 V |
| Maximum isolation voltage | 1,000 V |
Switching Interface for 230 Volts AC:
By connecting this interface to a PFE Profi 3/10 Outputs or PFE Advanced 10/20 Outputs receiver, a range of equipment powered by a 230V mains supply can be switched on and off. This interface functions as a switch in the power cable.
Using an Advanced receiver with the Terminal function is the best option, as multiple firing cues can be programmed for each output. Additionally, the duration for which the output remains active can be programmed. Typical applications include controlling wind machines, electromagnetic valves, electric motors, lights, and other mains powered effect devices.
| Switching outputs | 1 |
| Connection | 'Schuko' connector |
| Switching voltage | 220 VAC - 250 VAC |
| Switching current | 16 A continuously |
| Switching power | 3,680 W |
| Control voltage | 10 VDC - 28 VDC |
| Connection of the control cable | 4 mm banana plugs, suitable for all PFE Profi and PFE Advanced receivers |
| PFE Profi 3 / 10 Outputs | Yes |
| Activation time: | 0.5 s and 2.6 s |
| PFE Advanced 10/20 Outputs | Yes |
| Activation time: | 2.6 s |
| Activation time with terminal function: | 0.1 s to 25.0 s, Continuously On |
Customized solutions with different kinds of connectors are available upon request.
Interface with ‘0-10 Volt’ output:
This interface is built upon request. It is intended to control effect devices that have an input for 0-10 Volt signals. It is available as an optional accessory part for the receiver PFE Advanced 10 or 20 Outputs.
To activate an effect device multiple times with different firing cues and durations, the receiver must be equipped with the optional Terminal function.
Photo Interface
This interface can be used to control most common digital SLR cameras that are equipped with a remote release socket. Depending on the camera model, this interface is provided with the appropriate connector on the output side. Therefore, please specify the camera brand and model to be controlled when placing your order.
The Photo Interface is designed for operation with the PFE Advanced 10/100 Outputs in 10-Output mode or the PFE Advanced 20 Outputs.
This interface has two channels and takes over the function of the two trigger points of the manual shutter release. The first channel gives the signal for focusing and the second one releases the shutter. For night photography and long exposures the receiver must be equipped with the optional Terminal function.