DMXcat® vs A3d Scanner
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
DMXcat®
Control, analyze, and test DMX lighting fixtures wirelessly from your smartphone. This system uses a hardware dongle and free mobile apps to simplify lighting control without complex consoles. It supports various functions like DMX and RDM control, fixture management, and DIP switch calculations.
- Wireless DMX and RDM control
- Fixture control with built-in database
- DMX analysis and testing
- DIP switch calculator
- Multi-language support
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DMXcat® makes it easy for anyone to control, analyze, or test any DMX lighting fixture, whether it’s a simple LED PAR or a complex moving light. The system consists of a small hardware dongle (purchased separately) and a suite of free mobile applications. Together, they combine to bring wireless DMX and RDM control plus other useful lighting functions to the user’s smartphone. The DMXcat solves the problem faced by all users of modern lighting equipment: How to turn on and test DMX lighting gear without using a complicated lighting console. DMXcat app is now available in seven languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Japanese, and English. Software Applications There are currently five apps available for use with the DMXcat system: •DMX Controller: A single universe (512) DMX channel controller with two user interfaces (sliders or keypad). •Fixture Controller: Controls multi-attribute fixtures from a built in database. •RDM Controller: For bi-directional communication and control of RDM enabled devices. •DMX Tester: Analyze and adjust settings for transmitting or receiving DMX. •DIP switch calculator: Simplifies the configuring of DIP switches used for setting DMX addresses. Hardware The DMXcat’s hardware interface is a compact battery powered device which fits easily in a pocket or tool pouch or may be worn on a belt. It uses Bluetooth LE technology for communication with the smartphone applications (up to 50’ range). Without the limitations of being physically connected, the user can move about the workspace as needed with their smartphone and run the various apps while still using the phone for on-the-job communication. The device’s five pin XLRF connector/cable assembly allows it to be connected to a point in a DMX data chain to test or control of the various DMX/RDM functions. It is charged using a standard USB to Micro-USB cable and charger. Other features include a built-in LED flashlight, an audible alarm for locating a misplaced unit, XLR5M to XLR5M Turnaround, LED status indicator, and a removable belt clip with a split ring safety point. Optional accessories include XLR5M to RJ45 Adapter, XLR5M to XLR3F Adapter, XLR5M to XLR3M Turnaround, and a Belt Pouch.
A3d Scanner
Easily create detailed 3D models of your space using augmented reality. Map walls, doors, windows, and floor plans to generate a model that can be sent directly to compatible lighting control systems or saved for other uses.
- Augmented reality 3D modeling
- Map walls, doors, and windows
- Generate full floor plans
- Proscenium mapping tools
- Send models to Eos Family consoles
- Save models as .glb files
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With the Augment3d Scanner app, a comprehensive 3D model of your space is just a few touches away. Built for use with the Eos Family line of lighting control systems, A3d Scanner leverages the augmented reality tools included in your device, saving you time building your 3D space. Once installed, explore the easy-to-use tools to map your space - including walls, doors, windows, a full floor plan, and even proscenium tools. When you complete your plan, the Scanner app builds a model right on your device, allowing you to send it via a wifi connection to any Eos Family console running Augment3d, or save a .glb copy for later import or use in other software. Eos v3.2.0 or higher is required.
Screenshots
Verdict
DMXcat® and A3d Scanner both sit at 3.9 stars, but that hides the real split: 68% of DMXcat®'s written reviews are positive against 0% of A3d Scanner's. DMXcat® also leads on price (Free vs $24.99) and update cadence (monthly vs every 6 months). A3d Scanner's advantage is iOS requirement (15.0 vs 17.0). On rating, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
DMXcat® is free to download; A3d Scanner costs $24.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
DMXcat® holds the better App Store score, 3.9 against 3.7. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: DMXcat® has 26 ratings behind it against 3, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 68% of DMXcat®'s written reviews are positive against 0% of A3d Scanner's.
DMXcat® ships an update monthly, A3d Scanner every 6 months. The most recent releases landed on October 13, 2026 and October 3, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | DMXcat® | A3d Scanner |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free — better | $24.99 |
| Rating | 3.9 (26 ratings) — better | 3.7 (3 ratings) |
| Positive reviews | 68.4% of reviews — better | 0.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | 26 — better | 3 |
| Update frequency | Monthly — better | Every 6 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free — better | Paid |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 15.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 43 MB | 107 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | City Theatrical, Inc | Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc. |
Customer experience
DMXcat®
A3d Scanner
In-app purchases
DMXcat®
No in-app purchases
A3d Scanner
No in-app purchases









