The fundamental set of rules governing how data packets are addressed and routed across local networks or the internet. In the entertainment lighting sector: IP represents the technological foundation that enables high-capacity control protocols (such as Art-Net and sACN) to replace traditional, serial connections. By assigning a unique IP address to each console, media server, and DMX gateway: lighting networks can transport thousands of universes over a single physical Ethernet cable. While standard IT systems rely heavily on dynamic IP assignment, best practices in entertainment lighting favor static IP address configurations to prevent lease timeouts, DHCP conflicts, or rogue server distributions that can destabilize a live show. Proactive tools like QubiSet help technicians verify and manage IP configurations across a rig to ensure reliable, uninterrupted communication.
QubiCast Glossary
IP (Internet Protocol)
IP (Internet Protocol)
Glossary
Related terms
Default Gateway (IT Network)
An IT networking term referring to the specific routing device (typically a managed router) that serves as the exit point for forwarding IP packets to external subnets or the public internet.
Network
An interconnected group of computer systems, nodes, and devices that can communicate and share resources with one another.
IP Address (Internet Protocol Address)
A unique numerical identifier assigned to every device connected to an IP network.
ANSI E1.31 (sACN)
sACN is a protocol used to stream DMX512 data over IP networks using a multicast architecture.
Art-Net
Art-Net is a royalty-free communications protocol that transmits DMX512 and RDM data within Ethernet networks using UDP.
Node (DMX Gateway)
A DMX node is a hardware device that converts DMX512 data to or from Ethernet protocols such as Art-Net or sACN.
QubiSet
A proactive network monitoring and system management application designed for contemporary entertainment lighting networks.