122 IN DETAIL
ARKAOS | KLING-NET
ArKaos Kling-Net is a revolutionary plug ‘n’ play protocol for easy operation of LED devices. It allows the distribution of real-time video data to remote LED devices over Ethernet and removes the complexity of networking and control issues. A major motivation for ArKaos is the creation of easy-to-use, efficient products. Kling-Net fits this philosophy and introduces a new standard for pixel control. MAIN FEATURES • Automatic configuration and connection of display devices to a computer • Adds ‘intelligence’ to display devices that enables auto configuration • Perfect time synchronisation of multiple display devices • Avoids expensive hardware video converters to send video to display devices • Allows the creation of an heterogenic network of display devices from different manufacturers, which can all be controlled from one computer
Kling-Net adds a layer of ‘intelligence’ to even the most simple LED devices, enabling them to talk directly to a media server, configure themselves automatically, and eliminate complicated setup processes. Kling-Net is not built on top of DMX or ArtNet protocols, so both protocols can share the same network if required. DMX and ArtNet are full of ‘magic numbers’ IP addresses, ArtNet universes, channels, profiles - which can confuse even experienced technicians. This kind of compatibility is no longer necessary so ArKaos designed Kling-Net as a totally new protocol to bypass this complexity. The main benefit of Kling-Net for the end user is its plug ‘n’ play concept. To achieve this ArKaos implemented two concepts - automatic IP addressing and bi-directional communication that runs on a tiny processor. The equivalent of a 1,024 x 720 frame of pixels can be transported over a gigabit connection the equivalent of more than 2.2 million DMX channels, or over 4,300 universes - which is many more channels than with ArtNet or DMX. www.mondodr.com
•Top left Kling-Net capture option. •Top right Kling-Net in action in at a tradeshow. •Below Ethernet network running KlingNet .
ArKaos has developed an easy-to-use software around Kling-Net, called LEDMaster. It instantly shows connected fixtures and allows the user to map devices without the need to enter any numbers. LEDMaster has three easy steps in a single window: mapping, programming, performing. Set up is achieved much faster than with DMX or ArtNet, wiring is simpler with no need of expensive nodes, and clear diagnostics are displayed by the mapper if problems occur. LEDMaster is available for purchase from the ArKaos website. Kling-Net’s system requirements are very light: minimum hardware for an LED device is a microcontroller running at 16MHz and with 2KB of memory; LEDMaster is designed to run on inexpensive Mac or Windows laptops. Kling-Net is compatible with most manufacturers’ LED products. For more specs and techs visit: www.arkaospro.com/kling-net or check out the ArKaos YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Vqt5u rcxu4U www.arkaos.net