ABSTRACT
Stage-lighting systems can range from a few luminaires running preset programs in a master/slave configuration with no external controller, to extremely large systems with hundreds or thousands of fixtures of different types and multiple controllers running simultaneously on a network. From a systems standpoint, every stage-lighting system has certain common elements, including: rigging system, power distribution system, data distribution system, control system, and luminaires or fixtures. Like a rigging system, a well-designed power distribution system is a key component for the safe and reliable operation of a lighting rig. Feeder cable is the largest cable in a power distribution system, and its job is to feed electrical current to a panel before it is subdivided into branch circuits, which power the lighting, audio, and/or video system. Overcurrent protection devices are designed to protect both equipment and conductors from being overloaded or short-circuited.
