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LumenRadio

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Swedish manufacturer of wireless DMX systems using CRMX protocol for lighting control, with 2.4 GHz transmission range up to 3 km.

Technical Details

The CRMX protocol utilizes Cognitive Coexistence Technology with automatic frequency selection between 2.402 and 2.480 GHz. The transmitters operate with an output power of 100 mW (20 dBm) and support DMX512 and RDM data transmission. Current models like the TimoTwo offer 5-Pin XLR DMX connectors, battery-powered runtimes up to 14 hours, and 128-bit AES encryption. The SuperNova series achieves ranges up to 3 kilometers and supports multiple universe transmission with up to 63 separate DMX universes.

History & Development

LumenRadio was founded in Stockholm in 2009 and introduced its first CRMX system in 2010. In 2012, the first generation of wireless DMX transmitters for professional film productions was launched. In 2015, the company licensed the CRMX technology to other manufacturers such as ETC and Avolites. In 2018, the TimoTwo generation with improved battery life and RDM support came to market. Since 2020, CRMX has been integrated as an OEM solution in over 150 lighting manufacturers.

Practical Application in Film

For exterior shoots, LumenRadio systems enable lighting control over long distances without cable laying. For chase scenes, battery-powered receivers are mounted on vehicle headlights and controlled centrally. In underwater productions, waterproof SuperNova transmitters are used. The systems prove their worth during rapid location changes as no DMX cabling is required. Disadvantage: potential interference with other 2.4 GHz devices (WLAN, Bluetooth) in densely populated areas.

Comparison & Alternatives

In contrast to W-DMX (Wireless Solution), LumenRadio uses the more open CRMX protocol with better device compatibility across different manufacturers. City Theatrical's SHoW DMX Neo operates in the less crowded 900 MHz band but has lower data rates. Wired DMX remains more reliable and cheaper for stationary setups. LumenRadio is particularly suitable for mobile productions, hard-to-reach positions, and temporary installations, while wired solutions are more cost-effective for permanent studios.

From the crafts

Perspectives

Cinematographer

Ich verwende LumenRadio hauptsächlich bei Verfolgungsfahrten, wo ich praktische Lichtquellen am Auto zentral dimmen kann, ohne dass Kabel die Kameraführung behindern. Die 5-Millisekunden-Latenz ist vernachlässigbar, aber ich teste immer die Funkverbindung vor dem Take, da Wi-Fi-Router in der Stadt das 2,4-GHz-Band überlasten können.

Director

Mit drahtlosem DMX kann ich Lichtstimmungen spontan während der Probe ändern, ohne dass die Beleuchtungscrew Kabel neu verlegen muss. Bei Nachtszenen dimme ich praktische Lampen in Echtzeit zur Dialogdynamik – das geht nur mit sofortiger Funksteuerung, nicht mit manueller Bedienung am Set.

Producer

LumenRadio spart mir bei Außendrehs täglich 2-3 Stunden Kabelverlegung, was bei 15-köpfiger Crew etwa 800 Euro pro Drehtag entspricht. Die Anschaffungskosten von 1.200 Euro pro Transmitter-Set amortisieren sich nach einer Woche intensiver Nutzung, besonders bei wechselnden Locations ohne feste Infrastruktur.

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