ABSTRACT
Electrical meters are an important tool for set electricians. Single-phase and three-phase describe the sine waves of electricity and differ in the number of hot legs of power. Single-phase has two hot legs and three-phase has three hot legs. Hertz is a measurement of electrical frequency. Lights that draw more than 20 amps will require a special source of power, usually a generator on location or Camlok power on a stage set. In laying out power cords the mnemonic is pins to power. Every electrical cable has an ampacity rating. Using paper amps is a good way to plan for larger electrical distribution. ARRI T12s and the Mole Twelver can run 220V or 120V – 220V is preferable so as not to melt down the connectors. Banded cable is heavier single electrical cords banded with electrical tape to provide larger power runs. It is important to specify your larger electrical distribution systems as single or three phase since cabling and distro boxes are different for each system. Voltage drop can be a factor while running any long electrical lines. Running 60-amp 220V power uses the same 60A Bates extension as 120V lines so it is very important to label all 220V/60A connectors.
