Live music and related events needs lots of electrical power to run the audio, video and light systems. Energy is a big costs for a festival. Besides the cost of the electricity itself, there are typically considerable cost of getting enough electricity for a large event and distributing that electricity where it is needed using temporary electrical distribution systems.
Stages use audio, video and lighting These are the most energy-intensive systems, particularly at larger events. Traditionally over half of stage power is used by lighting, traditionally incandescent lamps and later also LEDs that use less power. Bars use electricity for refrigeration, drinks dispensing, audio and lighting. Also both food and nonfood traders at the events need power. Generally electrical power is one of the five single largest production costs for almost any type of music festival.
Electricity use at outdoor events is often provided by diesel-powered generators because in many locations there is no powerful enough electrical feed available for the location. For example music festivals are often situated in fields and countryside, and most of them lack adequate access to a power grid. To use the analogy of a human body for such event, the generators are the heart, the electricity is the lifeblood of a festival, and our power distribution systems are the veins that get it all where it needs to go.
A key issue at outdoor and indoor events is energy security. Power supplies should not fail, and if they do, they need to be corrected quickly. It takes careful planning to make the electrical power reliable. Electricity consumption for specific activities needs to be calculated for the entire duration of the event. It is necessary to choose an appropriate solution based on all factors such as budget, time, space, available resources, the nature of the event and the importance of each aspect of the event. Equipment that is used outdoors (i.e, subject to the elements or ingress from the elements) should have an appropriate IP rating. Also the power system needs to be able to set up and set down quickly, because you typically pay rent for the location and rented equipment.
The electrical power distribution at large uses many different connectors starting from normal mains power outlets to very high current three phase power connections and multi-pin connectors that carry many circuits with one connector. In many European countries event power is provided on connectors which are known as ‘cee-form’ defined by their current rating. These connectors come in ratings of 16amp, 32amp, 63amp and 125 amp. Single phase (230V) connectors are blue and three phase (230/400V) connectors are red. For power supplies above 125 amps systems such as Powerlock are used and typically provide up to 400 amp three phase. 19Pin Socapex or 16Pin Harting connector is often used to connect many lamps to dimmer with one connector.
Here are some videos on electricity at large events:
Entertainment industry connectors.
Show power distribution. Edinburgh Tattoo.
InfoComm 2014: Applied Electronics Shows Their Power Distro System
InfoComm 2016: Leprecon Showcases Its New LPD Portable Power Distribution Racks
GMS Distribution Power Box Demo
Whirlwind PowerLink UL Listed Tactical Power Distribution Overview
Introduction To Temporary Power
CEP Training Video 1
PCE Merz Portable Power Distribution Box 63Amp 3P+N+E IP67
“The way of earth leakage” by INDU-ELECTRIC Power Distribution
K-LOK 400A Single Pole Connector
Power Connectors – Overview
Stage Left Audio – Power Cords
50 Amp Power Distro – Spider Box for Audio Visual Productions
PCE Mobile Solid-Rubber power distribution boxes – Series STEYR
109 Comments
Tomi Engdahl says:
Steambrite: 230 Volt to 240 volt Circuit Joiner using two 120 Volt outlets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYctcjvRx9I
Having difficulty finding where to plug in you 230 and 240 volt electric car, appliance, pressure washer, vapor steam cleaner?
Used on Stopsaws, planers, and other industrial woodworking equipment.
120 to 240 volt conveter
http://www.steam-brite.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=inverter
Tomi Engdahl says:
Why we do not join ground wires and neutral wires together downstream of the service equipment.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lI59y1h3MxU
Parallel Paths
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrHy9pwv1iQ
This demonstration shows why we do not want to connect grounds and neutrals together downstream of the service equipment.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Grammy FOH Platform Start-up
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rn23NP3INsU
Climbing down to the FOH dimmer platform to turn on all moving lights and dimmers.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Don Quixote Dimmer Patch 02/03/2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OwzYnl0X-4
Tomi Engdahl says:
Straight vs Balanced Racks
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MM0v3E2q7A
A short description explaining the difference between straight and balanced dimmer racks. This holds true for all versions of ETC installation Sensor racks, as well as Unison DR and DRd racks. Touring Sensor racks are hardwired in a balanced configuration.
Cleaning and Maintaining your ETC Sensor or DRd Rack – Interior
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9j0SsNpR1hY
In this video, we will show you all the steps to properly clean and maintain the interior of your ETC Sensor or DRd rack.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Weatherproof 32A Single Phase Power Distro Build – Heavy Duty PDU for Outdoor Event Power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvhIckgK3ww
new heavy-duty weatherproof 32 amp power distribution unit that is used for temporary event power outdoors.
This video documents the build process, modifications and workarounds
This unit takes a single 32A Ceeform input and breaks it out into 3x 16A Ceeform outputs. The distro also provides overall overload protection, output overload protection and features dual 16A 30mA RCBOs (RCD + MCB combined). The split RCBO outputs mean that in the event of an earth leakage fault only some power would trip off and experience outages.
This is ideal for my use in live sound at music festivals as I can run the stage power from one side of the distro and the front-of-house main PA system from the other.
That means in the event somebody on stage plugs something faulty in (phone charger, guitar amplifier etc..) it will take power out to the stage only and I can still play music out front uninterrupted.
The build is actually based on a factory-built Mennekes “Menn 459913″ unit
Tomi Engdahl says:
Meet The Gaffer #52: Power Distro for a Sitcom Stage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-YIA2TJS5E
Set Electrician Sheila Greene takes on a tour of the power distro on a “small” sitcom stage.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Rack Power (PDU) terms and technology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpX7DrkHkdE
This video is a primer on the terms and technology behind the rack Power Distribution Units (PDU) that are used in data centers.
Tomi Engdahl says:
ide Rental – Power Distribution Hire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By351ppiCrg
19-Inch Rack Mount 3U Mains Distribution Unit 32A 230V 2P+E to 6 x 16A 2P+E (Individual MCB’s)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PL2wNot2rlE
Tomi Engdahl says:
A “Neat” Way to Wrap an Extension Cord
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRDkYSSCF1A
Best Way to Store an Extension Cord
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTpbh2zJGhA
Tomi Engdahl says:
GMS Distribution Power Box Demo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juh5b2oJqi0
A quick look at the features of a GMS Power Box and Adapters.
DIY 6,000 Watt Power Strip, US 220 to 110 Volt Converter
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5zBU14gS6E
Tomi Engdahl says:
HOSA TECHNOLOGY | PDX 250-Power Distribution | PRODUCT DEMO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSaV_GUKt44
http://hosatech.com/product/pdx/
This cable is designed to distribute line power to various components along its length. It is ideal for use with lighting equipment and pro audio gear in live venues.
Connectors: NEMA 5-15R to NEMA 5-15P
Tomi Engdahl says:
InfoComm 2014: Applied Electronics Shows Their Power Distro System
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUzrl7vRamE
Power Supply Distribution Board. (POWERSAFE) Stage Equipment’s.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twEIeegykj4
Tomi Engdahl says:
Phase 3 Connectors Ltd – Powersafe Single Pole Connectors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIh1SDlE0d4
Phase 3’s Powersafe range are the highest rated, safest and finest quality single pole connectors as used by the power, events, military and cable assembly industries worldwide.
POWERFIT 400A SINGLE POLE POWER CONNECTOR
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUbuFtadryM
Tomi Engdahl says:
Lucy Zodion – Westminster In-Ground Power Distribution Unit – product video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWYuZ-nVRdg
an in-ground power distribution unit that provides power from ground to socket in a matter of seconds. With improved set-up and safety features, the retractable feeder pillar is the ideal solution for the on-demand power requirements of event spaces, market stalls, stations and more…
Mobile Power Distribution Center – 240 Volt Stepped Down to 120V – (8) 120v GFCI Outlets – Spiderbox
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R-dGf1suDs
Tomi Engdahl says:
Neutrik’s powerCON Explained – ISE Show 2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riy85f8Qov4
Neutrik’s powerCON series includes lockable, extremely robust and reliable 3 pole equipment (AC) connectors.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Converting a Surge Protector / Power Strip to Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 for Daisychainability
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZkdYEErVV8
A guide to adding a Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 panel connector to a Furman SS-6B power strip to allow daisy-chaining of multiple strips.
Neutrik guarantees that the passthrough connectors can handle daisychaining
Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 – How to install male and female cable connectors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01AnhcF47D4
A helpful guide for installing male and female Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 electrical connectors onto a cable.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Meet The Gaffer #39: Basic Distro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbiwnN0jtyg
In this episode Alan Steinheimer walks through a basic distribution plan for feeding a set with power.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Meet The Gaffer #40: Cable Wrangling Tip
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL8sXVG0eik
Quick tip on how to save your back when pulling out heavy cable.
Meet The Gaffer #36: Plug-In House Power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DPiHOfiI_k
This video discusses how to go about distributing power when plugging lights into existing circuits in a house rather than bringing in power from an outside source, like a genny.
Tomi Engdahl says:
30 Amp RV vs 50 Amp RV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoOR2AJGjOI
What is the difference between a 30 amp and a 50 amp RV electrical system?
Tomi Engdahl says:
1 of 3 – DIY EXTENSION CORDS: Getting The Most Bang For Your Buck
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OFkDn2SryU
If there is a sale, you can save a lot of money if you buy a 50 foot cord extension cord verses buying the electrical cord by the foot.
In this video series I modifying a 50 ft extension cord into 3 versatile electrical shop cord systems
Tomi Engdahl says:
Why some power plugs have 3 prongs instead of 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1ZP–CLIOA
“why does one of these have 2 prongs, but the other one has 3?” Well, the answer all boils down to your personal safety. Here’s why.
Bizline－Why Do Different Countries Use Different Power Plugs？
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF0jHBFFZ30
Why Do Different Countries Use Different Power Plugs?
Power plugs come in different shapes and sizes across the world， and they can be broadly divided into 12 main types.
Why do countries have different outlet and voltage standards? Is there any way they can be harmonized into a single standard ?
Tomi Engdahl says:
#10 HOW TO Connect the three phases CEE plug
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMEfYaICLj4
Tomi Engdahl says:
Plugs : 32A plugs (240v & 110v) BS EN 60309-2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGIFVOlYgOg
The plugs and couplers in this video are the 32A size, and are the Yellow 110v plugs and couplers, and the 240v Blue plugs and couplers.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Phase 3 Connectors Ltd – Powersafe Single Pole Connectors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIh1SDlE0d4
Phase 3’s Powersafe range are the highest rated, safest and finest quality single pole connectors as used by the power, events, military and cable assembly industries worldwide.
Powersafe single pole connectors are 100% manufactured and assembled in the UK by Phase 3. The plug’s mating system is mechanically keyed and locked, meaning they cannot be mis-mated accidentally under load. Powersafe are the industry’s safest high current powerlock type connectors. The UL Listed power connectors are rated up to 800 amps and are perfect to mate with the Powersafe Box.
Tomi Engdahl says:
PLASA 2016 Awards for Innovation – Clarke Cable’s Socapex Power & DMX solution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ-EyD47Sfg
David Broadhurst of Clarke Cable introduces the company’s custom power & DMX cable
Tomi Engdahl says:
PowerCON connector
http://www.epanorama.net/newepa/2018/10/01/powercon-connector/
Tomi Engdahl says:
IEC 60309
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEC_60309
IEC 60309 (formerly IEC 309 and CEE 17, also published by CENELEC as EN 60309) is an international standard from the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for “plugs, socket-outlets and couplers for industrial purposes”. The maximum voltage allowed by the standard is 1000 V DC or AC; the maximum current, 800 A; and the maximum frequency, 500 Hz. The ambient temperature range is −25 °C to 40 °C.
There is a range of plugs and sockets of different sizes with differing numbers of pins, depending on the current supplied and number of phases accommodated.
they include IP44 weather-proofing
The cable connectors and sockets are keyed and colour-coded, according to the voltage range and frequency used; common colours for 50–60 Hz AC power are yellow for 100–130 volts, blue for 200–250 volts, and red for 380–480 volts.
The blue fittings are often used for providing weather-proofed exterior sockets for outdoor apparatus. In camping situations, the large 32 A blue fittings provide power to static caravans, whilst the smaller blue 16 A version powers touring caravans and tents.
The standard defines connectors with 3, 4 and 5 pins
Series I preferred current ratings (in Amps) are: 16, 32, 63, 125, 250, 400, 630 and 800, with wire gauges specified as mm2
IEC 60309 connectors come in IP44 (splash-proof) and IP67 (waterproof) variants. In both cases, the rating applies when detached or mated, but not during the mating process.
The more common IP44 variant features a spring-loaded hinged cap over the socket.
The red 3P+N+E, 6h (180°) plug allows connecting to the widespread 400 V three phase power network. The most common ratings are 16 A, 32 A and 63 A, with 125 A less common. Construction sites in central Europe have most of their higher power cabling setup with this three phase socket type as the single phase to neutral voltage of 230 V is available for other devices. So called power splitters with this connector as a 3 phase inlet and 3 groups of single phase outputs with individual circuit breakers are generally used to achieve this, and allow load balancing across the phases, important on generator supplies. Similar configurations are used for outdoor exhibitions, festivals and large events.
The blue P+N+E, 6h (180°) plug is a single phase connector. In particular the smallest (16 A) variant has become especially common in camping vehicles and sockets found in caravan parks and marinas throughout Europe. The so-called ‘Caravan Mains Socket’
Tomi Engdahl says:
Neutrals from transformers and in electrical circuits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AgCY_d98HF8
What a neutral wire is and how it is derived at the transformer.
Also how part of a circuit is a neutral, how it isn’t once disconnected and possible dangers of disconnecting wires which have apparently no voltage on them.
Isolated Electricity Supplies – Why they are not used for everything
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wx_v1-T1gE4
An isolated supply is not referenced to ground, and so the only way to get a shock from it is to touch both conductors at the same time.
They are not used everywhere as it is very difficult to ensure they remain isolated – any fault to ground anywhere would go unnoticed but convert the system to ground referenced.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Types of MCB / Circuit Breaker, BCDKZ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niZ01Dr_8CE
Different types of circuit breaker, tripping current and considerations when using them.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Phase 3 Connectors Ltd – Powersafe Single Pole Connector
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIh1SDlE0d4
Phase 3’s Powersafe range are the highest rated, safest and finest quality single pole connectors as used by the power, events, military and cable assembly industries worldwide.
The plug’s mating system is mechanically keyed and locked, meaning they cannot be mis-mated accidentally under load. Powersafe are the industry’s safest high current powerlock type connectors. The UL Listed power connectors are rated up to 800 amps and are perfect to mate with the Powersafe Box.
Tomi Engdahl says:
how to assemble camlock connectors 400 amp by guitar tech sammy bones
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jkg6m1s00DU
How to Connect Cam-Lok Single Pole EZ 1016 and 1018 connectors
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npi6I9n1Ki0
This video will show you how to connect the J series connectors to a cable presented by Galco on G-TV.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Making cam-lock cable
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l-tyaAmm6A
A quick video showing how to make cam-lock cable.
How To Hookup Your Mobile Generator To A Connection Tap Box
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMf-ARsn7kk
Tomi Engdahl says:
Powerlock System
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dd9Pas6Z0qE
Connect Powerlock System
Tomi Engdahl says:
CEP Training Video 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0TTHUWoun8
Tomi Engdahl says:
IEC Lock Connector – How it works
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLrLVxQucog
IEC Lock is a unique range of patented lockable female C13 & C19 IEC connectors and outlets. Our power cords guard against accidental disconnection of Computers, PDU’s, Servers and most Network Devices. Connectors cannot be accidentally pulled or vibrated out of the inlet. They are suitable for use with ‘ANY STANDARD’ C14 or C20 inlet.
IEC Lock connectors can be used in many different applications where uninterrupted power is critical such as data centers, outside broadcasting, medical, motor racing and maritime.
Tomi Engdahl says:
POWER DISTRO RESTART
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCWuXqv-96k
Meet The Gaffer #39: Basic Distro
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbiwnN0jtyg
In this episode Alan Steinheimer walks through a basic distribution plan for feeding a set with power.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Power Distro Example While In Use
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tW1dLEuk0r8
Just a quick clip from the wedding we just did where we used our power distro with a 30A circuit. This one 30A circuit gave us two separate 20A circuits for our gear.
Wedding DJ survival kit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=on-EDaHbIeo
Here’s a short video discussing essential backup gear to have on-hand while DJing weddings. After many years of being a wedding DJ based in CT, I’ve put together my perfect package of DJ equipment that seems to get me out of any unexpected situation I may have.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Meet The Gaffer #52: Power Distro for a Sitcom Stage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-YIA2TJS5E
Set Electrician Sheila Greene takes on a tour of the power distro on a “small” sitcom stage.
Meet The Gaffer #34: Generator Basics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhCDWSMTIkQ
San Francisco gaffer, Dave Mong walks us through the basic procedures of working with a motion picture generator. His generator happens to be a drivable plant.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Weatherproof 32A Single Phase Power Distro Build – Heavy Duty PDU for Outdoor Event Power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvhIckgK3ww
This is a project I’ve needed to do for a while now – especially with festival season upon us. It’s my new heavy-duty weatherproof 32 amp power distribution unit that is used for temporary event power outdoors.
This video documents the build process, modifications and workarounds I made along the way on this project.
This unit takes a single 32A Ceeform input and breaks it out into 3x 16A Ceeform outputs. The distro also provides overall overload protection, output overload protection and features dual 16A 30mA RCBOs (RCD + MCB combined). The split RCBO outputs mean that in the event of an earth leakage fault only some power would trip off and experience outages.
This is ideal for my use in live sound at music festivals as I can run the stage power from one side of the distro and the front-of-house main PA system from the other.
That means in the event somebody on stage plugs something faulty in (phone charger, guitar amplifier etc..) it will take power out to the stage only and I can still play music out front uninterrupted.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Whirlwind Power Link – NAMM 2016 First Look
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8V86gQtXFI
Whirlwind PowerLink UL Listed Tactical Power Distribution Overview | Full Compass
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5ew58IUQRk
Tomi Engdahl says:
Camlock (electrical)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camlock_(electrical)
A camlock, or also cam lock and Cam-Lok, is an interchangeable single-pole electrical connector often used in temporary electrical power production and distribution predominantly used in the North America.[1] Originally a trade name as Cam-Lok, it is now a generic term
The most common form is the 16 series, rated at 400 amperes with 105 °C terminations. Also in common use is the 15 series (mini-cam), rated at 150 amperes. A larger version is made denoted as the 17 series with ratings up to 760 A.
They are generally used where more than 50 A is required or 3 phase temporary connections are needed, and to connect large generators or building disconnects to distribution panels,or for test connections to load bank equipment for generator load certification; special events and the interconnection of entertainment lighting and sound equipment to power sources. They are usually found only in professional environments, where connections are performed by qualified personnel
Cam Locks Explained
http://www.ecpowersystems.com/resources/cam-locks/cam-locks-explained/
Cam Locks, or ‘cams’ for short are interchangeable connectors used in the electrical industry for temporary electrical power distribution and production. Not to be confused with the cam locks used in furniture construction, climbing or fluid connection, the most common form of this electrical component is the 16 series, with 105°C terminations and a 400 ampere rating. The 15 series is also in common use, with a rating of 150 amperes and nicknamed the ‘mini cam
When Are Cam Locks Used?
Generally when 3 phase connections or a charge of more than 50A is required, a cam lock will be employed. They are also used to build disconnects to lighting dimmer racks and distribution panels and to connect large generators. Usually found in professional and industrial settings, they are seldom found in use around the home or by amateurs.
The standard color codes for the USA are as follows.
For 120 / 280v Wye and 240v Delta:
Green = Equipment Grounding Conductor
White = Neutral (Grounded Conductor)
Black = Ø1
Red = Ø2
Blue = Ø3
For 277 / 480v Wye and 480v Delta:
Green = Equipment Grounding Conductor
White = Neutral (Grounded Conductor, if used)
Orange = Ø1
Yellow = Ø2
Brown = Ø3
Tomi Engdahl says:
Socapex
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socapex
Socapex is a brand of electrical connectors, known in the entertainment industry primarily for their 19-pin electrical connectors, commonly known as Socapex connectors, and used in film, television, and stage lighting to terminate the ends of a multicable. They are wired with six hot/live pins, six neutral pins, six ground/earth pins, and a final central pin used to aid alignment of the male end of the connector with a female receptacle.
“Breakouts” are often used to connect fixtures to the cable. The breakout consists of a male Socapex connector with six “tails” with female parallel blade receptacle, stage pin connector, IEC 60309 16 A, NEMA L5-20P ‘twist-lock’, BS 546 15 A or Schuko connectors, according to the standards of the region in which the assembly is being used.
Amphenol Socapex is still manufacturing and selling the original Socapex.
Socapex connectors may be found on circuits connected to dimmers, or may be inadvertently fed from three-phase circuits that exceed the connector voltage rating.
PLASA 2016 Awards for Innovation – Clarke Cable’s Socapex Power & DMX solution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ-EyD47Sfg
David Broadhurst of Clarke Cable introduces the company’s custom power & DMX cable
Tomi Engdahl says:
Entertainment industry connectors.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Ay9T3o9OSw
A selection of some of the connectors we use on jobs like The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to distribute power and data around the site.
The popular Socapex connector is one that just fitted the bill at some point in the past and became a standard within the industry, but it’s what I would refer to as a grandfathered connector. One that might not be chosen these days because it has a few shortcomings that are tolerated. The main one is the lack of anti-tracking barriers that means they are very susceptible to internal tracking and arcing when they get wet. Something that happens a lot on exposed outdoor events. They also have an ungrounded metal shell with phase conductors in its vicinity, which means care has to be taken handling them if any water gets involved.
They also have an aluminium threaded locking system that tends to get scuffed up over time and it’s important to make sure they have all been screwed together completely before powering the rig, as some casual stage crew don’t fully understand the importance of a full solid connection. (The pins can arc and burn damaging both connectors.)
Tomi Engdahl says:
Meet The Gaffer #36: Plug-In House Power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DPiHOfiI_k
This video discusses how to go about distributing power when plugging lights into existing circuits in a house rather than bringing in power from an outside source, like a genny.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Converting a Surge Protector / Power Strip to Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 for Daisychainability
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZkdYEErVV8
A guide to adding a Neutrik PowerCON TRUE1 panel connector to a Furman SS-6B power strip to allow daisy-chaining of multiple strips.
Tomi Engdahl says:
Weatherproof 32A Single Phase Power Distro Build – Heavy Duty PDU for Outdoor Event Power
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvhIckgK3ww
new heavy-duty weatherproof 32 amp power distribution unit that is used for temporary event power outdoors.
This video documents the build process, modifications and workarounds
This unit takes a single 32A Ceeform input and breaks it out into 3x 16A Ceeform outputs. The distro also provides overall overload protection, output overload protection and features dual 16A 30mA RCBOs (RCD + MCB combined). The split RCBO outputs mean that in the event of an earth leakage fault only some power would trip off and experience outages.
The build is actually based on a factory-built Mennekes “Menn 459913″ unit
Tomi Engdahl says:
Power distribution cabin.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXWfT_L3R9g
This is the interior of one of several power distribution points on the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. It is fed by a 400A 3-phase 240/415V supply which it then divides down through suitable protection to the final circuits, each of which is protected by an RCD (GFI) for safety.
All the units you see in the cabin are designed for touring shows, and when the lids are fitted they turn into flightcases that can be rolled about with modest ease.
We protect every single circuit with earth leakage protection for safety, and also to ensure that if something develops a fault or gets drenched then we only lose one or two bits of equipment at a time.
Tomi Engdahl says:
25 KVA Temporary Power Distribution Panel – 480V Portable Transformer – 6 120v GFCI Outlets
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0YBNVD71sg
https://www.larsonelectronics.com/p-69026-25-kva-temporary-power-distribution-panel-480v-transformer-6-120v-gfci-outlets-100ft-line-in.aspx
The Larson Electronics MGL25-8C-480-120V-GFI-100 Temporary Power Distribution System converts 480VAC electrical current into single-phase 120/240VAC. This unit provides operators the ability to safely tap into and distribute 480V power from a variety of sources including generators and direct grid power.
The MGL25-8C-480-120V-GFI-100 temporary power distribution system gives operators the ability to power their 240 volt and 120 volt equipment from a single system
Applications: This power distribution system is NEMA 3R rated and ideal for indoor/outdoor use and applications including but not limited to; construction sites, plant maintenance, plant turnarounds, shows, exhibits and shipyard operations.
Tomi Engdahl says:
50 Amp Power Distro – Spider Box for Audio Visual Productions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FllJ0PUC-xE
Some people on the facebook groups were asking about power distros and I wants to show people what we’ve been using.
How To Plug in an RV (Dog Bones 101)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVYBei5BZmw
A new RVer recently asked us how to plug their RV into a regular household electric outlet, so we thought we’d cover the basics of connecting different types of RVs into 20-, 30- and 50-amp electric service.