Ethernet-based protocol for transmitting DMX lighting data across networks. Supports up to 32,768 universes with 512 channels each, enabling centralized control of thousands of LED panels and moving lights.
Technical Details
Art-Net Version 4 supports a maximum of 32,768 universes with 512 channels each, theoretically enabling over 16 million controllable parameters. The protocol sends data in 530-byte packets, consisting of an 18-byte header and 512 bytes of DMX data. The refresh rate is 44 Hz by default but can vary depending on network load. Node devices convert between Art-Net and DMX512, with input nodes converting DMX to Ethernet and output nodes converting Ethernet to DMX. The system operates with broadcast or unicast transmission and supports automatic node discovery.
History & Development
Artistic Licence Engineering introduced Art-Net in 1998 as the first royalty-free solution for DMX-over-Ethernet. Version 1 supported 256 universes, Version 2 (2003) expanded to 32,768 universes and integrated RDM (Remote Device Management) support. Art-Net 3 (2011) optimized network efficiency, while Art-Net 4 (2016) brought extended configuration options and improved synchronization. Its royalty-free nature made Art-Net the de facto standard compared to paid alternatives like ACN/sACN.
Practical Application in Film
In "Blade Runner 2049," Art-Net controlled over 2,000 LED panels in the futuristic city scenes, utilizing the Ethernet infrastructure of the studio stages. Film sets use Art-Net splitters to coordinate hundreds of LED fixtures, moving lights, and dimmers from a central lighting control system. The network capability allows for backup consoles and remote monitoring from the video village. Managed switches with IGMP snooping prevent network congestion in large installations with over 50 universes.
Comparison & Alternatives
Art-Net primarily competes with sACN (Streaming ACN/E1.31), which is technically superior but came to market later. While Art-Net relies on UDP broadcast, sACN uses more efficient multicast and offers priority management. Wireless DMX systems like LumenRadio operate in parallel but can only transmit a few universes. ETC-Net and MA-Net are manufacturer-specific alternatives with proprietary extensions. For new installations, many opt for sACN, while Art-Net continues to remain dominant due to its installed base.