I just released a new “basics of programming with Sidus Link Pro” video on my team Nerd channel.  This one is all about Networking principles and using them to get and maintain control. 

After you’ve viewed it, here’s some additional content that might help you on your journey to Good Networking.

A Little More About Subnets 

I didn’t specify in the video, but there are three possible subnets in lighting:

• 255.000.000.000
• 255.255.000.000
• 255.255.255.000

The only difference between them is how many IP addresses they open up.  

• 255.000.000.000 = 16,777,216 addresses
• 255.255.000.000 = 65, 5363 addresses
• 255.255.255.000 = 256 addresses

What you choose is entirely up to you.  But if you are just starting out, there’s no reason to step far away from 255.255.255.000.

Using IP Addresses to Identify Items on your Network

I like to use the subnet 255.255.000.000.  I’ve come close to having more than 256 IP addresses on projects, and I believe strongly the day I’ll need a lot more is coming soon.  But the main reason I’m using that subnet is because I like using the third octet to tell me what kind of a device it is.

For context, my usual IP addressing starts with 10.101 because I use Eos.  No one HAS to use a specific IP address, but there are customs in networking that allow a touring LD/Programmer to “fit into” the house network easier.

So some examples:

10.101.100. is always a console or other controller

10.101.50 is always a node

10.101.49 is always a network switch

This helps me when I’m troubleshooting a large rig.  If there is anything that doesn’t follow this IP plan, I know it wasn’t configured properly.  If I know I’m looking for a node that doesn’t appear to be outputting, I can scan the list on the network quickly.

Learn More

Many people ask me what resources I recommend for learning more about networking.  I have two suggestions, one that I have read (several times) and one that many trusted friends read and speak highly of:

• Rock Solid Ethernet by Wayne Howell (creator of Artnet)
• Introduction to Show Networking by John Huntington (the guru of show control)

I read Rock Solid Ethernet and it manages to be incredibly informative but never boring (your results may vary- I have a high tolerance for tech speak).

Take a Class

Last Suggestion- attend the ESTA technical training at NAMM.  I got to take classes on sACN and DMX (examples) from some of the people WHO WROTE THE PROTOCOLS.  It’s inexpensive and amazing.

What are your networking adventures like?  Are you lost in the woods, able to perform simple tasks, or only confused by unusual circumstances?  Hit me in the comments.

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Mark LaPierre is a programmer in film and television based out of Albuquerque.  He grew up in live entertainment and has been a designer/programmer for musicals, concert dance, live music, circus and corporate.  Mark is a proud member of IATSE, an ETC Eos trainer and an enthusiastic trainer of many other platforms and subjects.  He offers Zoom console training as well as in person.  If you enjoy his content, please consider commenting on his posts on the website to appease the Algorithm.