The problem was not caused by reflections, but by noise or signal distortion. Cable Capacitance and Inductance. In looking at DMX512 signals on the oscilloscope I've noticed signal distortion on relatively short lines. Some distortion is caused by the fact that all cables have capacitance and inductance. Although any low value resistor across the end of the line will lower the effect of cable capacitance and inductance, using the proper termination resistance is recommended.
Low impedance cabling systems pick up less electrical noise than high impedance systems.
By adding the proper termination, the susceptibility of the system to noise is reduced. It will improve your system and make you feel good. Doug Fleenor Design Permission is granted to copy and distribute this document only in its entirety.