Martin Pro Companion Cable - Firmware Uploader for MAC, ERA, ELP, Rush, and Exterior Series in Black Finish

The Martin Professional Companion Cable is a powerful, multifunctional fixture management tool designed to streamline firmware uploads, fixture configuration, and stand-alone programming for Martin's wide range of products, including the MAC, ERA, ELP, Rush, and Exterior series. This easy-to-use cable connects Martin fixtures directly to a computer, enabling users to manage multiple fixtures efficiently, update firmware, configure settings, and run stand-alone programs without the need for a DMX controller. The Companion Cable provides an all-in-one solution, simplifying the management of Martin's advanced lighting systems for professionals in both live events and installations.

The Martin Companion Cable integrates seamlessly with the Martin Companion application, which is available for free download from the Martin website. This application syncs with Martin's firmware library over the internet, allowing for automatic firmware updates without the need to browse support pages. The Companion Cable uses RDM (Remote Device Management) technology to enable remote fixture configuration and patching, making it easy to manage large numbers of fixtures at once. Additionally, the cable supports RDM over Art-Net, providing a flexible, networked communication option for managing fixtures in complex setups. Fixtures can be configured via the Companion Cable's Fixture Configuration Template system, which allows users to apply settings to multiple fixtures simultaneously for quick setup.

The Martin Companion Cable also facilitates the uploading of firmware via multiple protocols. Fixtures can be updated via DMX, network (Art-Net or sACN), or even through the use of a USB memory device or the P3 System Controller. For specific products in the Martin JEM, Magnum, and RUSH ranges, the Companion Cable can even be used for firmware uploads via the Epsilon 5 AVR Programmer, ensuring the atmospheric effects machines stay up-to-date.

With advanced RDM functions, the Martin Companion Cable enables every fixture's settings to be accessed and modified remotely. It supports the export of fixture data to CSV files, such as serial numbers, patch details, and usage counters, making it easy to manage large inventories of fixtures. The cable also offers the ability to execute fixture actions, including resets, hibernation, and the cleaning of fans, without needing a physical connection to the fixture. For users who need to program Martin fixtures without a computer, the Companion Cable supports stand-alone programming, allowing for the creation and storage of up to 20 scenes with individual hold and fade times. These scenes can then be run in sequence, synchronized across fixtures, without the need for a connected controller.

The cable's durable design features a matte black housing and a compact form factor, making it easy to transport and store. It is equipped with a USB 2.0 Type C interface (adapter to USB Type A included) for seamless connection to a computer, and it supports DMX and RDM data via a 5-pin locking XLR. The Companion Cable is powered via USB, ensuring ease of use without requiring additional power sources. With a weight of just 3.5 oz, it is lightweight and portable, perfect for any lighting technician or designer who needs to manage Martin fixtures on the go.

For those working with Martin's comprehensive range of fixtures, the Martin Companion Cable is an essential tool that enhances workflow, saves time, and ensures that all equipment stays up-to-date and properly configured. Whether used in large-scale events, broadcast setups, or permanent installations, it simplifies fixture management and ensures the highest level of efficiency and performance.

Features

• Supports firmware upload for Martin MAC, ERA, ELP, RUSH, and Exterior series fixtures
• Enables fixture configuration and patching via RDM and RDM over Art-Net
• Fixture Configuration Template system allows easy deployment of settings to multiple fixtures
• Stand-alone programming of up to 20 scenes with individual hold and fade times
• Syncs with Martin's firmware and GDTF library for automatic updates and fixture details
• Export fixture data to CSV, including serial numbers, patch details, and usage counters
• Firmware upload via DMX, Art-Net, sACN, USB memory device, or P3 System Controller
• Supports RDM commands and fixture actions such as resets, hibernation, and fan cleaning
• Ergonomic and portable design with a matte black finish
• USB 2.0 Type C interface (adapter to USB Type A included) for easy computer connection
• Compatible with Martin Companion app for streamlined setup and management

Specifications

Physical

• Length: 2.7 in. (head), 22.3 in. (base)
• Width: 1.2 in. (head), 13.2 in. (base)
• Height: 0.7 in. (head), 0.7 in. (base)
• Weight: 3.5 oz

Control/User Interface

• Configuration and management: Companion Desktop Software
• Device status: 3 x status LEDs (USB, DMX & Status)

Construction

• Housing: Plastic
• Color: Matte Black
• Protection rating: IP20
• Non-domestic use in dry location only

Connections

• Computer Interface: USB 2.0 Type C (adapter to USB Type A included)
• DMX/RDM data: 5-pin locking XLR

Electrical

• Power Rating: 5 VDC over USB
• Maximum current draw: 150 mA

Thermal

• Maximum ambient temperature (Ta max.): 122° F
• Minimum ambient temperature (Ta min.): 32° F

System Requirements

• Computer running Windows 10 or 11 (32 or 64-bit)
• Intel Core i3 or better processor
• 4 GB RAM
• 1 GB available hard disk space
• Display with Full HD or better resolution
• USB 1.1 (or higher) port (USB Type A or USB Type C) for connection of Companion Cable
• Ethernet port for RDM over Art-Net communication (if used)
• Full administrator rights on PC

Supported Fixture Communication Protocols

• RDM (via Companion Cable)
• RDM over Art-Net (via standard Ethernet Port)
• Multiple proprietary fixture firmware upload protocols

Supported RDM Parameters

• Fixture Configuration
  • General: Manufacturer, Model, Label, Fixture ID
  • Patch: Mode, Universe, Address, Compact Mode Aura, Pan Invert, Tilt Invert, Pan/Tilt Swap, Pixel Flip Mode, IP Settings
  • Light & Color: Dimmer Curve, Color Mode, Output Mode, Manual CTC, Keylight Calibration, Gobo CT Correction, Video Tracking, Strobe Behavior, Tungsten
  • Emulation, Low Noise LED Mode
  • Control: Pan/Tilt Speed, Effects Speed, Effects Shortcuts, Focus Tracking, Hyper Zoom, Fan Mode, Extra Blackout
  • Display: Display Auto Off, Display Show Error, Display Rotation, Display Intensity, Display Contrast
  • Power: Power Limit, Hibernation, DMX Lost Mode, Reset via DMX, Reset, Lamp Off via DMX, Lamp On Mode, Lamp State, Power State
  • Outdoor: Auto Empty Water, Outdoor Action
  • Pan/Tilt Limits: Reset Pan/Tilt Limits, Enable Pan/Tilt Limits, Pan Limit Min, Pan Limit Max, Tilt Limit Min, Tilt Limit Max
  • Details: Serial Number, UID, MAC Address, Protocol Version, Device Model ID, Art-Net OEM Code, Product Category, Firmware Version, Sub-Device Count
  • Service: Status, Sensors Readout, Device Hours, Lamp Hours, Lamp Strikes, Power Cycles, Fan Clean, Self Test, Factory Defaults
• Fixture Action
  • Factory Defaults: Set Factory Defaults
  • Reset Fixture: Warm Reset, Cold Reset
  • Hibernation: Disable, Enable
  • IP Settings: Reset IP Settings
  • Pan/Tilt Limits: Reset Pan/Tilt Limits
  • Outdoor Actions: Stop, Empty Head, Dry Off, Safe Parking
  • Fan Clean: Stop, Start
  • SelfTest: Stop, Test All, Test Pan/Tilt, Test Effects, Test LEDs, Identify
• Stand-Alone Programming
  • Proprietary set of Martin RDM commands
• *Martin Companion uses a combination of standard RDM commands and Martin-specific RDM commands

Supported Fixtures - Firmware Upload

• Firmware Upload via DMX Cable:
  • All products from Martin MAC, ERA, ELP, RUSH and Exterior ranges
  • Select products from Martin VDO range
• Firmware Upload via Network
  • Select products from Martin MAC, VDO and Exterior ranges
• Firmware Export and Upload into Fixture via USB stick
  • Select products from Martin MAC and ERA ranges
• Firmware Export and Upload into Fixture via P3 System Controller
  • All products from Martin VDO and VC ranges
  • Select products from Martin MAC and Exterior ranges
• Firmware Export and Upload into Fixture via Epsilon 5 AVR Programmer
  • Atmospheric Effects in Martin JEM, Magnum and RUSH ranges

Supported Fixtures - Fixture Configuration

• Any fixture supporting RDM and/or RDM over Art-Net

Supported Fixtures - Fixture Action

• Any fixture supporting RDM and/or RDM over Art-Net

Supported Fixtures - Stand-Alone Programming

• Martin Exterior Dot Pro series
• Martin Exterior Linear Pro series
• Martin Exterior Wash Pro series

Supported Fixtures - GDTF View & Export

• All Martin products

Approvals

• EMC: CAN ICES-3 U(B) / NMB-3 (B)

Ordering Information

• Companion Desktop Software: Free download from www.martin.com
• Companion Cable: P/N 91616091