Powering multiple lights

[boogsblade]

I'm wondering what the best way of powering multiple lights is. I'm currently using standard 5 way extension leads with overload protection but they look unsightly and was wondering if there was another way of powering them within a smaller form factor? I have 2 scanners, 1 abstract vrx, 1 abstract gladiator, 1 moonflower, 1 40mw laser and 2 strobes. I don't use the strobes very often but I have a few 21st parties coming up and the kids like them.

Any suggestions greatfully recieved.

Cheers:)

[Danno13]

I'm about to make something myself using these - http://cpc.farnell.com/jsp/Cable,+Wire+&+Connectors/Connectors+-+Mains,+Power,+Test+etc./HYLEC/THK.200.C1E/displayProduct.jsp?sku=CBBR6902&_requestid=218490

One trunk cable can run the length of the truss (or t-bar) and at each position where you want a light, add one of these to branch off and leave a dangling IEC lead for the light.

Once you've made it you can also attach all the DMX cables to the same loom.

Only thing you need to be aware of is that the trunk cable needs to be 13 amp and you obviously can't use lights that draw more than this when all run from the same socket.

[Sam]

I'm wondering what the best way of powering multiple lights is. I'm currently using standard 5 way extension leads with overload protection but they look unsightly and was wondering if there was another way of powering them within a smaller form factor? I have 2 scanners, 1 abstract vrx, 1 abstract gladiator, 1 moonflower, 1 40mw laser and 2 strobes. I don't use the strobes very often but I have a few 21st parties coming up and the kids like them.

Any suggestions greatfully recieved.

Cheers:)

Could look at DMX switch packs =)
Small and compact.. and can sw. off / on from your dmx controller then.. (if you have one)..

[boogsblade]

I'm about to make something myself using these - http://cpc.farnell.com/jsp/Cable,+Wire+&+Connectors/Connectors+-+Mains,+Power,+Test+etc./HYLEC/THK.200.C1E/displayProduct.jsp?sku=CBBR6902&_requestid=218490

One trunk cable can run the length of the truss (or t-bar) and at each position where you want a light, add one of these to branch off and leave a dangling IEC lead for the light.

Once you've made it you can also attach all the DMX cables to the same loom.

Only thing you need to be aware of is that the trunk cable needs to be 13 amp and you obviously can't use lights that draw more than this when all run from the same socket.

Thank you for your help, this is an option I will look at. This would certainly tidy things up along the light bar. I forgot to mention that I have a Giraffe table with built in light bar across the top so this would be ideal. With larger venues I use two more T-Bar light stands and would be able to knock up a couple of trunk cables for those also. Thank you also AsTecDJs for your suggestion.

Cheers again for all your help on this matter.

Bryan

[Larry B Entertainment]

I use a Chauvet SF9000 timer system, basically a switch bank which connects to a relay pack that fastens to the rig, 8 EIC sockets can be turned on or off independently and only one thin data cable connects the panel and relay pack together so nice and neat wiring. There is even 1 unswitched socket for the fog machine to be plugged into so you still have 8 other sockets for your lights.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I use a similar system to Larry, but both his and mine have both stopped being made.

This is similar http://www.djanddiscostuff.com/prodpage.asp?prodid=1925

[djsteve10]

What about a Martin Mc Switch Unit?

[pagan_flame]

Or if you run STL Like Wot I Do...

Strap an extension on the bar, use some black tape to hide it a little.

Get 4 of these (http://www.maplin.co.uk/module.aspx?ModuleNo=42504&doy=15m1) - remote control mains sockets.

They are just about visible in daylight here... but could do the black tape thing with the back of those too.

http://www.slingshot.uk.com/fd/photos/stcaths_180807/fdr_180807_1.jpg

Which leaves one wire going down the side bar / winch stand. The box in the middle is the Robocolor controller - and don't start about the leads at the back of the Mackies, they've now been sorted too... :rolleyes:

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

What about a Martin Mc Switch Unit?

You can only power 6 units from that and it's more expensive.

[djsteve10]

You can only power 6 units from that and it's more expensive.

Quality piece of kit tho,
im sure Martin do a 10 switch one

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Quality piece of kit tho,


Quality bit of kit?

Steve, it's a bloody switch panel!!! :rolleyes:

[Jiggles]

Ah but the switches are made of a high quality plastic :D :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Quality bit of kit?

Steve, it's a bloody switch panel!!! :rolleyes:

Actually it's a switch box, not panel.... :o :D

[Penfold42]

Quality bit of kit?
Steve, it's a bloody switch panel!!! :rolleyes:

LMAO.......:D :D :D :D :D :D

[Jiggles]

C'mon Daz keep up :D

[boogsblade]

Thanks guys really appreciate the help and i've got it sorted now. Decided to go for the trunk cable with iec leads splitting off. I already have dmx controller for all of the lights so I can blackout the necessary ones etc.

Thanks again guys.:D