grandMA3 Consoles and the NPU Explained

grandMA3 consoles are available in several form factors: the compact compact XT, the full-size grandMA3, and the ultra-large grandMA3 LX. Each console runs the grandMA3 software natively and provides physical faders, encoders, playback controls, and a touchscreen interface. The key differentiator among consoles is the number of HTP (Highest Takes Precedence) parameter outputs they support — ranging from 2,048 parameters on the compact XT up to 8,192 on the LX. All consoles can be expanded via NPUs.

Consoles also feature built-in DMX ports (typically 4 to 8 XLR outputs), Gigabit Ethernet for Art-Net and sACN, and multiple monitor outputs. They act as the primary session master in a grandMA3 network, controlling show data, timing, and cue execution.

grandMA3 onPC is the same software that runs on the consoles, but installed on a standard Windows PC or Mac. It provides full programming and playback capability but requires a hardware key (a USB dongle or a node) to unlock DMX output. Without a key, onPC runs in visualizer mode (no output). With a key, it can output up to 2,048 parameters (depending on the key type).

onPC is ideal for pre-programming, offline editing, or as a backup control surface. It can join a grandMA3 session as a client, allowing multiple programmers to work on the same show simultaneously. For live use, onPC is often paired with a small console or an NPU to scale parameter counts.

The grandMA3 Network Processing Unit (NPU) is a dedicated hardware device that processes DMX data and expands the parameter capacity of a grandMA3 system. It does not have a user interface or faders — its sole job is to generate DMX output (via XLR, Art-Net, or sACN) based on commands from the console or onPC session master.

Each NPU adds up to 2,048 parameters to the system. Multiple NPUs can be linked to scale to the maximum supported by the software (currently 16,384 parameters). The NPU connects to the network via Ethernet and syncs with the session master using MA's proprietary session protocol. It also provides redundancy: if the primary console fails, an NPU can take over as session master (if configured as a backup).

You need an NPU when your show requires more parameters than your console can output natively. For example, a grandMA3 compact XT (2,048 parameters) controlling a large rig with 3,000 fixtures would need at least one NPU to cover the extra 1,000 parameters. NPUs are also essential for distributed output — placing an NPU near a remote truss or dimmer rack reduces cable runs and network latency.

Another common use case is redundancy: a second NPU can be configured as a session backup, automatically taking over DMX processing if the primary NPU or console goes offline. For large-scale events (festivals, touring, broadcast), NPUs are standard to ensure both parameter headroom and fail-safe operation.

All grandMA3 devices (consoles, onPC, NPUs) communicate over a standard Gigabit Ethernet network using MA's session protocol. A session is a group of devices that share the same show file and real-time data. The session master (usually the main console) synchronizes cue lists, timing, and parameter values across all devices. NPUs and onPC stations join as clients.

DMX output from NPUs can be delivered via the built-in XLR ports (each NPU has 4 DMX outputs) or via Art-Net/sACN over Ethernet. This flexibility allows integration with any DMX or IP-based fixture, including LED walls, moving lights, and dimmers. For large networks, multiple NPUs can be assigned to different universes, and the console manages the routing seamlessly.

grandMA3 systems are designed for mission-critical reliability. A typical redundant setup includes a primary console, a backup console (or onPC), and one or more NPUs. If the primary console fails, the backup takes over session master duties without interruption. NPUs can also be configured in an active/passive pair: if the active NPU fails, the passive one assumes its parameter load.

MA's session protocol ensures that all devices maintain a consistent state. Network redundancy (e.g., dual Ethernet paths) is recommended to avoid single points of failure. For permanent installations, NPUs can be rack-mounted in a central equipment room, with remote consoles and onPC stations accessing them over the network.

Selecting the right mix of consoles and NPUs depends on your parameter budget, physical layout, and redundancy requirements. For small tours (up to 2,048 parameters), a single compact XT console may suffice. For mid-size shows (4,096 parameters), a full-size grandMA3 or a compact XT plus one NPU is common. Large festivals and broadcast events (8,192+ parameters) typically use an LX console with multiple NPUs.

Consider also the number of DMX universes needed: each NPU provides 4 physical DMX outputs, but you can output many more universes via Art-Net/sACN. Always factor in future expansion — it's easier to add an NPU later than to replace a console. MA Lighting's official documentation and certified training partners can help design a system tailored to your needs.