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Installation

phix is a desktop application that runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

System Requirements#

ComponentMinimum
OSWindows 10, macOS 11, or a modern Linux distribution
RAM4 GB
NetworkRequired for DMX output via ArtNet or sACN
info

phix outputs DMX over the network using ArtNet or sACN (E1.31). You need a network-connected DMX node (e.g., an Art-Net node) to connect to your fixtures. A direct USB DMX interface is not required.

Running phix#

With graphical interface (default)#

Launch the phix executable. The application window opens automatically and connects to the built-in engine.

Without graphical interface (headless)#

phix can run as a headless engine — useful for rack-mount installations or remote operation:

phix --no-gui

In headless mode, phix starts a command-line REPL where you can type commands directly. The REST/WebSocket API is also available for remote control.

Application data#

phix stores its configuration and GDTF fixture library in:

PlatformPath
WindowsC:\Users\<you>\.pbox\
macOS / Linux~/.pbox/

Inside this folder:

  • config.json — application settings (GDTF path, DMX defaults, GDTF Share credentials)
  • gdtf/ — default folder for your GDTF fixture files

First launch#

On first launch phix starts with an empty show. You'll want to:

  1. Import your fixture types
  2. Patch fixtures to DMX addresses
  3. Configure DMX output

If you'd like a step-by-step walkthrough, follow the First Show guide.