Ask TMB

LAMP QUESTIONS

What does "PAR" stand for?

"Parabolic Aluminized Reflector"

What is the difference between a PAR 20 and a PAR 16?

All Par numbers are a measure of the lamp diameter in 1/8" increments . PAR 16=2.0", PAR 20=2.5", PAR30=3.75", PAR46=5.75", PAR56=7.0", PAR64=8.0"

What is the difference between an HMI and an MSR?

HMI and MSR are manufacturerer names that have become industry standard. Both lamps are metal halide discharge lamps, MSR just means "medium source rare earth".

What is the difference between the 800hr & 2000 hr par 64's?

The difference between the 800hr and a S/B 2000 PAR 64 is:
cost, color temperature, candle power, beam angle, lumens, and there is no VNSP, very narrow spot, available in the S/B 2000.

What is the difference between the 300hr & 2000hr HPL575 lamp for ETC fixtures?

The 300hr lamp is 575W @ 115V, burning at 3,250 degrees Kelvin with 16,520 initial lumens. The 2,000hr lamp is 575W @ 115V and burns at 3,050 degrees Kelvin with 12,360 initial lumens.

Why do my HPL lamps seem to go ka-pow after about the third time I switch them on on a hot circuit, or after I leave them on for 3 or 4 days?

Because you are probably using the 115v HPL in a constant / full voltage situation, and you need to use the 120v HPL for that. Save your 115v HPL lamps for the stage.

Does a PAR 20 and a PAR 16 use the same lamp?

No. The PAR 20 takes an E26 or E27 medium screw base. TMB PAR 16's use an E17 intermediate screw base.

Is there a difference between an E26 and an E27 type lamp base?

Although you would think there would be, the answer is no.