The K16-ARTNET is a sophisticated 16-port LED pixel controller designed for lighting designers, integrators, and advanced hobbyists. It bridges the gap between professional lighting networks and high-density LED installations, translating Art-Net, DMX, or SD card files into SPI data that thousands of WS2812B, WS2811, and WS2815 pixels can understand .
Key Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | K16-ARTNET (16-Port) / K8-ARTNET (8-Port variant) |
| Max Pixels (Offline) | 16,384 pixels total (1,024 pixels per port) |
| Max Pixels (Online) | 10,880 pixels total (680 pixels per port) |
| Connection | RJ45 Ethernet (Art-Net Protocol) + DMX512 Input |
| Input Voltage | AC 110-220V (Built-in power supply) |
| Rated Power | 4W |
| Control Modes | Art-Net (Online/Madrix), DMX Console, Offline (SD Card) |
| Supported ICs | WS2811, WS2812B, WS2815, SK6812, UCS1903, TM1804, SM16703, and 50+ more |
| SD Card | Supports up to 2GB (FAT/FAT32 format) |
| Display | 4-Digit LED Display + 4 Navigation Buttons |
| Net Weight | Approx. 1.1 - 1.2 KG |
| Working Temp | -30°C to 85°C |
Dual Control Modes for Ultimate Flexibility
1. Online Mode (Art-Net / Real-time)
Connect the controller to your local network via the RJ45 port and use professional PC software like Madrix, Resolume Arena, or Arkaos to generate real-time, complex lighting effects. This mode supports up to 10,880 pixels total (680 pixels per port) and allows for live video mapping and music synchronization . The K16 supports 16*4 universes, with a maximum of 6 universes per port in online mode .
2. Offline Mode (SD Card / Standalone)
Upload pre-programmed sequences to a standard SD Card (1GB-2GB, FAT format). This allows for standalone, reliable playback without needing a computer or active network connection. Create your effects using LEDmagic software (selecting the K-16000ALL model), save them as *.led files, and the controller will run your show automatically every time it's powered on . Supports up to 99 program effects that can be switched via the front panel .
3. DMX Console Control
The controller can be connected directly to a professional lighting desk via DMX512 for seamless integration with stage and theater setups, allowing external control to adjust modes, speed, and brightness .
Multi-Controller Synchronization
For even larger installations, multiple K16 controllers can be cascaded (daisy-chained) using Cat5e Ethernet cables, with a maximum transmission distance of 100 meters between controllers. You can also add network switches or use optical fiber for long-distance transmission . When cascaded, only the speed and effect need to be set on the first (master) controller .
Professional Hardware & Build
-
Construction: Durable metal housing (rack-mountable design) with efficient passive cooling. The 1U rack form factor allows for easy integration into standard 19" equipment racks.
-
User Interface: Features a bright 4-digit LED display and four buttons (Mode, Set, Speed+, Speed-) for adjusting DMX addresses, pixel count, chip type, and test patterns directly on the device without a computer .
-
Power Switch: Includes a convenient front-panel ON/OFF power rocker switch.
-
Output Ports: 16 high-speed SPI ports (RJ45 connectors).
Supported LED ICs (Extensive Compatibility)
The K16 series supports a wide range of chips, including :
-
WS Family: WS2811, WS2812B, WS2813, WS2815, WS2818.
-
UCS Family: UCS1903, UCS1909, UCS1912, UCS2903, UCS2909, UCS2912.
-
TM Family: TM1803, TM1804, TM1809, TM1812.
-
Other: SM16703, SK6812, GS8205, GS8206, APA102, LPD6803, LPD8806.
Applications
| Application | Why K16 Is Perfect |
|---|---|
| LED Matrix Panels (Video Walls) | 16,384 pixel capacity for large-scale video playback. |
| Architectural Facade Lighting | 16 independent outputs for building contouring and media facades. |
| Stage Backdrops & Concert Visuals | Real-time Artnet control from Madrix/Resolume. |
| Christmas Light Displays | Offline SD card operation with up to 99 program slots for complex seasonal shows. |
| Dance Floors & Club Installations | Rugged metal build and DMX512 input for club environments. |
| Commercial Signage | "Set it and forget it" standalone operation for retail displays. |
| KTV / Bar / Restaurant Lighting | Create dynamic, programmable lighting effects for entertainment venues . |
What's in the Box?
-
1 × K16-ARTNET LED Pixel Controller (16-Port)
-
1 × AC Power Cord
-
1 × 1GB/2GB SD Card (programmed with demo effects)
-
1 × User Manual (software download link provided for LEDmagic)
Note: LED strips, power supplies, Ethernet cables, and DMX cables are sold separately.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No pixel output | SD card not inserted, empty, or incorrectly formatted | Ensure SD card is FAT/FAT32 format and contains a valid *.led file |
| Flickering / Random behavior | Missing ground connection between controller and LEDs | Connect the GND terminal of the controller to the GND of the LED strip/power supply |
| Chip type mismatch | Wrong IC model selected on the controller | Press and hold 'Set' to access the menu and select your specific IC (e.g., 1903 for WS2811) |
| Cannot connect to Madrix | IP address mismatch or SD card inserted | Remove SD card (for online mode). Ensure PC and controller are on the same subnet (e.g., 2.x.x.x default for Artnet) |
| Insufficient pixel count | Port overloaded | Distribute pixels across more ports. Online mode: max 680px/port. Offline mode: max 1024px/port |
| Low frame rate (<30FPS) | High per-port pixel count or slow network | Reduce pixels per port; ensure network connection supports Gigabit speeds |
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.