What is a grandMA NPU?
Quick answer
A grandMA NPU (Network Processing Unit) is a dedicated hardware device from MA Lighting that offloads processing tasks from the lighting console, enabling control of more DMX universes and parameters in large-scale productions.
The grandMA NPU is an essential component for complex lighting setups, particularly in concerts, theatre, and live events where extensive control is needed. It connects via network to the grandMA console, handling the processing of DMX data, effects, and cue execution, thereby freeing the console’s CPU for other tasks.
NPUs are rack-mountable and come in various models with different processing capacities. They are part of MA Lighting's ecosystem, which is widely regarded as the industry standard for professional lighting control. For audio professionals, understanding NPUs is valuable when coordinating with lighting departments for synchronized shows.
Key things to consider
- Offloads processing from the lighting console to increase overall system capacity.
- Supports additional DMX universes and parameters beyond the console's built-in limits.
- Connects via Ethernet (MA-Net) and can be used in redundant setups for reliability.
- Essential for large-scale productions with hundreds of fixtures and complex cues.
- Compatible with grandMA2 and grandMA3 consoles.
Need the right system specced for your venue?
SSOUNDS designs, supplies, installs and tunes professional AVL across Nigeria & Africa.