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 to handle more parameters, universes, and DMX outputs in large-scale lighting networks.
The grandMA NPU is designed to expand the processing power of a grandMA lighting control system. It connects via Ethernet to the console and manages up to 8 DMX universes (or more with Art-Net/sACN), allowing for complex shows with thousands of fixtures. It runs the same software as the console, ensuring seamless integration.
In professional audio-visual productions, the NPU is often used alongside sound systems like SSOUNDS line arrays. While SSOUNDS focuses on precise audio coverage and SPL, the NPU handles the lighting side, synchronizing cues with audio for immersive experiences. For large festivals or tours, multiple NPUs can be networked for redundancy and increased capacity.
The NPU is rack-mountable and fanless for silent operation, making it suitable for control rooms. It supports MA-Net2 and MA-Net3 protocols, and can be configured as a backup or standalone node. Its reliability is critical for shows where lighting and audio must work flawlessly together.
Key things to consider
- Offloads processing from lighting console to handle more parameters and DMX universes.
- Connects via Ethernet; supports up to 8 DMX universes (expandable with Art-Net/sACN).
- Runs same software as grandMA consoles for seamless integration.
- Rack-mountable, fanless design for silent, reliable operation.
- Used in large-scale productions alongside audio systems like SSOUNDS for synchronized shows.
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