As fireworks shows evolve into full-scale multimedia experiences, the demand for integrating pyrotechnics with lighting, flame, and special effects has never been greater. At the heart of this transformation is DMX—the industry-standard protocol for controlling stage lighting and effects—and FireTEK, one of the only firing systems that supports native DMX output without any external converters or add-ons.
Whether you're a prosumer, backyard pyro enthusiast, or professional operator, this blog will walk you through how FireTEK makes DMX control simple, powerful, and reliable.
What is DMX?
DMX512 (Digital Multiplex) is a universal communication standard used in lighting and special effects. It allows you to control dimmers, moving lights, flame projectors, CO₂ jets, spark machines, and more. Each device listens to a unique "channel," and DMX controllers send data over a single cable to activate or change settings in real time.
Why DMX + Fireworks Is the Future
Combining DMX with fireworks allows you to create immersive, cinematic shows:
- Ignite flame jets between firework bursts
- Trigger synchronized stage lighting for concerts or festivals
- Fire spark machines for indoor events or low-noise zones
- Coordinate pyrotechnics and lights to one master timeline
FireTEK enables this easily by making DMX control native and scriptable—no extra hardware required.
How FireTEK Sends DMX
FireTEK firing modules can send native DMX signals directly to your flame or lighting fixtures via standard DMX cabling. All you need is:
- A DMX-compatible effect (like Shoven flame projectors)
- A standard DMX cable
- A FireTEK module with DMX output (e.g., FTQ-16x64)
No converters. No latency. Just plug and play.
Scripting DMX with Finale3D
Most FireTEK users script their DMX effects using Finale3D, making it easy to combine pyrotechnics, music, and visual effects in one synchronized timeline.
Basic steps in Finale3D:
- Add a DMX channel event to your script
- Set the cue time and DMX value for the device (on/off, color, effect type, etc.)
- Export to FireTEK’s format
- Upload to your FireTEK controller or modules
Watch it in action: See this full demo of FireTEK controlling flames and fireworks
FireTEK Tip: Use Real DMX Cables
To ensure strong, reliable signal delivery—especially over longer runs—always use true DMX-rated cables, not standard microphone or audio cables. This helps prevent data loss or flickering effects.
Popular DMX Effects Used with FireTEK
FireTEK customers use a variety of DMX-controlled gear, including:
- Flame Projectors (like Shoven)
- LED Wash Lights and Beams
- CO₂ Cannons and Fog Machines
- Spark Machines
By using FireTEK as your show controller, you unify all of these under one timeline—no external DMX consoles or bridging gear required.
Final Thoughts: One System. Unlimited Control.
With FireTEK’s built-in DMX capabilities, you can control more than just fireworks—you can control the entire show. Whether you're adding flame to a backyard celebration or syncing lights and sparks for a stadium event, FireTEK gives you precision, simplicity, and reliability without extra boxes, delays, or hassle.
Have questions about DMX setup or gear? Contact us for help selecting flame or lighting effects to pair with your FireTEK system.
Ready to take your show to the next level? Explore FireTEK-compatible DMX gear in our shop and start building the future of sky entertainment.