A nine-switch bank has 512 possible ON/OFF patterns. With direct binary weighting, those patterns represent values 0 through 511. This is different from the DMX start-address range of 1 through 512.
Use the DMX DIP switch calculator for interactive conversion. This reference explains the range limits and how to check an address against a fixture manual.
Nine-bit switch values
| Switch | Value | ON for address 173? |
|---|---|---|
| SW1 | 1 | Yes |
| SW2 | 2 | No |
| SW3 | 4 | Yes |
| SW4 | 8 | Yes |
| SW5 | 16 | No |
| SW6 | 32 | Yes |
| SW7 | 64 | No |
| SW8 | 128 | Yes |
| SW9 | 256 | No |
Worked example: address 173
173 = 128 + 32 + 8 + 4 + 1. For a device using the weights above, turn ON SW8, SW6, SW4, SW3, and SW1. Turn OFF the remaining address switches.
The conventional nine-bit binary number is 010101101. In physical switch-number order, SW1 through SW9, the pattern is 101101010. Always match switch labels rather than copying left-to-right screen order.
What happens at address 512?
Turning all nine binary address switches ON gives 1 + 2 + 4 + 8 + 16 + 32 + 64 + 128 + 256 = 511. No combination of these weights equals 512.
Some hardware uses a special pattern or an offset; other hardware does not offer 512 on a nine-switch bank. Do not assume that all OFF means 512, address 1, or DMX mode. Those meanings require an explicit instruction in the fixture manual.
The fixture footprint also limits the start address
A fixture using F channels must start no later than 513 − F to fit in a 512-channel universe. A 16-channel fixture can start at 497 and occupy 497–512. Starting it at 498 would place its last channel beyond the universe.
That footprint rule and the device’s switch-encoding limit are separate checks. Use the DMX channel patch planner to check occupied ranges.
Do not assume switch 10 is another address bit
On some fixtures, switch 10 controls a mode such as standalone operation. On other products its meaning differs. Counting ten physical switches does not prove that ten binary address bits are available. See our guide to address bits and mode switches.
Quick verification checklist
- Read the exact model’s address table and locate the printed ON mark.
- Identify which numbered switches are address bits.
- Add the weights of the ON address switches.
- Confirm the start address and selected channel personality in the controller.
- Check that the final occupied channel is 512 or lower.
- Follow the manual’s procedure for applying the new setting.
Manufacturer reference
ADJ’s fixture FAQ documents binary switch weights and explains that mode-switch settings vary by product. It is a useful example of why a device manual takes priority over a generic calculator.