D-Zed Software (http://www.dragonstopmotion.com/about.php) has introduced their new DDMX-S2 Digital Lighting Controller, an I/O device for use with their Dragon Stop Motion 2.1 stop-frame animation software for Mac or Windows.

When used in conjunction with standard DMX protocol dimmer/switcher packs, the DDMX-S2 permits automated, software control of: up to 99 different lighting channels; work lights; front-light/back-light sequences; keyframe based lighting programs. The device also operates as a software controlled trigger for a: RED camera, film camera, or unsupported still camera; motion control system; computer running Dragon Stop Motion.

The DDMX-S2 is a USB powered device requiring no adapters or dongles for installation. It uses standard drivers that can be installed through the Help menu of Dragon Stop Motion. It employs a standard, 3-pin XLR socket as a DMX512 protocol lighting control port (a common 3-pin to 5-pin adapter may be necessary). The device drives hundreds of feet into a fully terminated 120 ohm load. In addition to lighting control, the unit can trigger external devices using a relay, logic, or GPI (General Purpose Interface) level signal.

On the Mac, the DDMX-S2 Digital Lighting Controller works with Mac OS X 10.4.11 or higher. It costs US$249. Dragon Stop Motion 2.1 is priced at $275 for a single-user license. A trial license is available and valid for 10 days and limited to 50 frames per take.