Help Center / Compatibility

Here are the system requirements for the current Lightkey version. If your Mac runs an older version of macOS we also provide earlier Lightkey versions for download.

Lightkey works with any fixture that can be controlled through DMX. If there’s no profile for your lights in the fixture library we’ll be happy to create one for you. The library also contains generic profiles for simple kinds of fixtures, see Appendix 2 of the Lightkey User Guide. You can connect conventional lights with no DMX connector through a dimmer pack.

Lightkey can control bulbs, LED strips, plugs, and other types of lights of the Philips Hue brand. Products by other manufacturers which connect to a Philips Hue bridge will often work as well, but we can’t guarantee compatibility with them. Other smart light systems, including WiZ lights, are not currently supported.

Any DMX-compatible dimmer pack or switch pack will work with Lightkey. Simply patch several of the generic one-channel profiles (e.g. PAR Wash, PAR Spot, Bulb, Switch) to consecutive channels. Each light appears as a separate fixture in Lightkey’s Preview.

See also
How do I patch a dimmer pack or switch pack?

Lightkey works with a number of DMX–USB interfaces from various manufacturers. Here’s the full list. If your USB interface is not on the list then it’s most likely not compatible. Lightkey also works with any interface that uses either Art-Net or sACN.

Lightkey works with both kinds, and it doesn’t make a difference which kind you use. Any adapter between 5- and 3-pin connectors will also work.

From the software’s perspective it doesn’t matter if you use splitters, boosters, or transmitters along the DMX line. The software does not directly control those devices and doesn’t even know they’re there.

Wall switches/panels are typically installed between the DMX interface and the lights. Lightkey is not aware of the wall switch and has no control over it. Most DMX wall switches work fine with Lightkey, but we cannot guarantee compatibility with specific devices.

See also
How do I hand over control to my DMX wall switch?

Lightkey can receive MIDI from any controller, foot pedal, or other device. Some controllers have special, device-specific features like color LEDs which may not work or require manual configuration. See this article for more details.

Lightkey has been specially designed and optimized for Macs and can’t be used on other operating systems. At this time we have no plans for a Windows version.