kluit.net

What It Is

ArtNet for PowerPoint is a PowerPoint add-in from KluitNET. Its core purpose is to let users remotely control PowerPoint presentations via the ArtNet DMX protocol. ArtNet itself is used to transmit DMX over Ethernet or Wi‑Fi, so this plugin is mainly aimed at scenarios such as theaters, live shows, and launch events where lighting consoles need to stay in sync with presentation content. It can bring PowerPoint elements such as backgrounds, videos, and slides into a pre-programmed lighting-show workflow.

Core Features and Integrations

The page clearly lists the DMX channel mapping: Channel 1 is used as a Dimmer; Channel 2 controls actions, including starting the presentation, stopping the presentation, blackout, next slide, previous slide, and launching different presentation modes; Channel 3 can jump to a specified slide using values 1–255. The plugin can work with any lighting console that supports ArtNet, and its configuration can be embedded in the PPTX file, making it easy to carry together with the presentation file. In terms of ecosystem support, the head-definition for Chamsys MagicQ is already included in the MagicQ installer, and Avolites also provides a download entry for the corresponding personality.

Platforms, Pricing, and Documentation

For compatibility, it integrates with Office 2013 and later, and runs on Windows 7 or newer. The main text does not mention support for macOS, PowerPoint for the web, or mobile platforms, nor does it describe any API/SDK. Pricing follows a trial-plus-license model: a Demo version is available for download and remains fully functional for 30 minutes after each PowerPoint launch; a full license requires contacting the vendor by email, with pricing and payment methods not publicly disclosed. The documentation provides the key channel mapping, which is enough for DMX-savvy users to get started, but installation, licensing, troubleshooting, and example guidance are limited.

Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For

Its main advantage is its very focused positioning: it connects PowerPoint directly into an ArtNet lighting-control workflow, making it suitable for lighting designers, stage technicians, and event production teams. The downsides are that product information is limited, pre-sales transparency is only average, and support appears to rely mainly on email. It also only discloses support for the Windows/Office desktop environment, leaving cross-platform capabilities unclear. For users who only create standard presentations, this is not a general-purpose productivity tool; but for live production teams that need to trigger slides, videos, and blackout actions from a lighting console, it can reduce extra manual steps.

Access from China

The main text does not provide information about access from mainland China, mirrors, payment, or localization, so real-world availability cannot be determined. If access or purchasing is not stable, teams can evaluate alternatives such as QLab, Resolume, and ProPresenter based on on-site requirements, or use a PowerPoint plus OSC/DMX bridge script setup instead.