AMPACITY/ELECTRICAL "LEGALITY" QUESTIONS

Can a cable rated at 100A support a full continous 12K load?

Yes (unless your voltage is below 120 Volts):
At 120 Volts a "12K" (12,000 Watt) load draws 100 Amps. 
At 240 Volts a "12K" (12,000 Watt) load draws 50 Amps.

What is the maximum length of cable for 1000 watt loads in 16 gauge, 14 gauge, 12 gauge and 10 gauge?

What's the difference between ETL Listing & UL Listing?

None. UL is more widely known, which may have some marketing benefits, but ETL is a "Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory" and products that are ETL approved

Is a "Sister-lug" "legal"?

The Sister-Lug is a type of bussbar clamp used for feeder connections in the West Coast Studio Industry. Approved and "legal" versions are available from TMB (The "ProLug") and Mole-Richardson.

Is a "Studio Pin" "legal"?

No. The NEC requires connectors used on feeders to be "Listed and of the locking type" - the traditional "Studio-Pin" is neither.

Should I buy Type W feeder cable or Entertainment Grade? Are they both equally "Legal"?

Listed "Type W" and "Type SC" (Entertainment Grade) feeder cables are both specifically mentioned in the NEC as "legal" for entertainment applications. TMB supplies both types: The "Type W" feeder cables are more durable, but also heavier and more expensive. The "Type SC" feeder cables are less durable but also less expensive and lighter in weight. The "Type W" is also approved for a wider range of applications than the "type SC". TMB would recommend "Type W" for general use and "Type SC" for certain applications such as on studio lots.

Are regular E1016 Cam-Loks legal or do I have to use the Posi-Lok or something like it?

Regular E1016's are only legal when used by "qualified persons". If your feeder connections are not being made and unmade by qualified, trained professionals, you must use some kind of Interlocked system, such as the Cam-Lok "Posi-Lok"

Is all "Type W" cable legal?

No. Type W is available in versions that are not UL Listed, these versions are not allowable for Entertainment Industry applications.

CABLE QUESTIONS

What is the standard wiring for an ACL bar?

ACL's are usually 28V. Therefore, an ACL bar is wired in "series" (4x28V=112V).

What's the difference between a Fan-out & a Break-out?

Nothing, they're the same thing. These terms apply to a cable assembly which distributes control or load circuits "out" of a Multicable carrying multiple circuits. It typically comprises a multipin connector wired with several individual cables, one for each circuit.

Can I terminate my multicable directly to stage pin connectors or do I have to always use a breakout?

No: The conductors of Multicables used in stage lighting load distribution are not designed to be "splayed out" `to multiple connectors, doing this could be dangerous. A breakput assembly or some kind of transition device should always be used.

Is your DMX cable shielded/UL Listed?

Yes and No: All ProPlex Data cables are shielded. The ProPlex "T" series is "UL Recognized" and as such is suitable for permanent installations, however it is not "UL Listed". Typically, Listed status is only a necessity for cables which carry Mains Voltage.

Will your cables make my P.A. systems Buzz?

Yes, unless they are used correctly. Cables do not cause PA noise problems. Incorrect use of cables can cause such problems.

Can you use mic cable for DMX?

No: DMX is a digital control signal (RS485) that needs a true, low-capacitance, control cable. Although mic cable wired to 5-pin XLR connectors may seem to work OK, there is a great danger that there will be problems, when you expect them least. We would say you should use the best possible cable, so that when problems do arise with your DMX equipment, you can eliminate the cable as the cause of trouble.

Can I use 2/0 cable for dimmer pack feeders?

Yes, as long as the type of cable used is approved for such use and the dimmers are not drawing more than the rated current carrying capacity. The feeder cables typically used in the US' Entertainment industry, Types SC and W, have a 290 Amp rating for size 2/0.

Do you sell 2/0 Type W/Entertainment cable

Yes and No: "Type W" and "Entertainment" (actually "Type SC") are 2 different types of feeder cables. TMB sells 2/0 cables of both types.

Can I get 5-wire feeder all in one cable?

No. Multicables are not designed to have the individual conductors "splayed out" to individual connectors. A high power "fan-out" is not practical.

How long should my feeder tails be?

That is up to you. Most customers order 10 foot feeder tails.

What is SC Cable? Is it the same as EISL Cable?

Yes: "Type SC" is the designation in the NEC for cables previously known as "Entertainment Industries Stage Lighting"

CONNECTOR QUESTIONS

What is the pin out on a 7-pin Socapex?

There is no standard wiring on a 7-pin connector for motor control. Normally the center pin, (#7), is used for the ground. However, the pins used for control and the pins used for power vary from rental company to rental company. Usually they are in groups - [1,2,3, control], [4,5,6 power], or [1,2,3, power], [4,5,6 control]. There is no industry standard, so you should always double check the wiring of any equipment that is sub rented and used with your gear. The reason to double check your gear is that 7-pin connectors carry power and control together and there is a potential for harming the equipment or the operator if the wiring configuration is not confirmed.

What does the 19th pin of a Socapex do?

Socapex has become a generic term applying to the types of connectors commonly used for "6-circuit" lighting load distribution. In the normal 6-circuit configuration, the 19th pin is not used.

Do VSC & Socapex mate?

VSC stands for "Veam Socapex Compatible". The Litton-Veam VSC series of connectors is fully compatible with Socapex "419" series connectors.

What is the standard wiring of 6-circuit cables using Socapex compatible connectors?

The standard wiring of 6-circuit cables using Socapex compatible connectors is:

Pin 19 is a blank in this configuration.
Print / Download the PDF version of this chart.

What is the standard wiring of 12 circuit cables?

The standard wiring of 12-circuit cables using "Pyle" type 37-pin, 20 Amp connectors is:

Pin 37 is blank in this configuration.

Can you use Socapex for 8 or 9 circuit load distribution?

Yes, although we would not recommend it. The predominant standard is for 6-circuits and there are many benefits in having "industry-standard" wiring. However, we do have a few customers who use "Socapex" type connectors for 8 or 9 circuits and our assembly shop does fabricate 8 or 9 circuit cable-assemblies to order.

Do you sell a Rosco Bates manufactured by Advance Devices?

Yes and No: "Bates" is a generic term used mostly in West-Coast Studios to describe the "Stage-Pin" or "2P&G" connectors which are commonly used, in 20, 60 and 100 Amp sizes, in Stage and Studio Lighting. Rosco and Advanced Devices are 2 brand names of connectors of this type. Both are available from TMB.

Do you carry Cam-Lok helox devices?

No. "Cam-Lok" and "Helox" are the trademarks of 2 different manufacturers. In the entertainment industry, the term "Cam-Lok" is used to describe the most widely used locking single-pole feeder connectors. For many years, the Cam-Lok brand was the only connector of this type available. Now other manufacturers, including "Helox" are marketing connectors with claims they are "Cam-Lok compatible". TMB only stocks and sells the original, tried-and-tested, "Cam-Loks"

Is the Cam-Lok water proof?

No. The "Cam-Lok" E1016 and E1015 connectors common in the entertainment industry are UL-Listed for dry locations only. Equipment using these connectors must be protected from moisture.

How do you assemble a Cam-Lok?

You could make your life easy and have TMB install the connector for you. If you need to do it yourself, remember the following tips:
1. Lots of WD40 or silicon spray.
2. Do not cut the boot back too far. You want a tight seal!!
3. Make sure to carefully line up the insert stud with the boot receiver before pulling the boot over the insert.
4. Always pull, never push.
5. Use a rag to pull the boot.

Do you have a 200 Amp female Posilok output?

No: The output (or outlet) connectors in Cam-Lok's 200 Amp Posi-Lok series are "dead-front males", meaning a male contact with an insulated tip.

Is the Cam-Lok a locking device?

Yes: Cam-Lok E1016 and E1015 connectors are UL Listed as "Locking connectors"

Is it standard to have the sex of Neutral & Ground Cam-Loks reversed?

No: There is no standard

Is a 400 Amp Posilok a wall box?

No. The Cam-Lok Posi-Lok is a sequentially interlocking single-pole connector system. Posi-Lok output and input panels can be, and sometimes are, mounted in "Wall Boxes".

CONTROL CONSOLE QUESTIONS

Where can I find multi-sync monitors for lighting consoles?

Standard computer monitors are compatible with most lighting consoles. For example, NEC Multi-sync monitors, available from the computer store. are useable where multi-sync monitors are required.

EXPENDABLES/ACCESSORIES QUESTIONS

Do the sandbags you sell come with sand?

Yes or No. We supply sandbags however they are specified by our customers.

Which is the male side of Velcro?

The "male" side is the side with the "hooks" on it, as opposed to the softer, fuzzy "female" side!

Is your gaffers tape really sticky? Does it leave residue?

Yes. All gaffers tapes can leave a residue. However, the Permacell 665 and 672 gaffers tapes featured by TMB provide the optimum combination of maximum adhesion (stickiness) with minimum residue.

How long will my 9-volt batteries last?

This is impossible to answer, as it depends on many factors. You can be assured, however, that the ProCell batteries supplied by TMB, are the best batteries available and that they are fresh and will give you the maximum life expectancy.

Is the DF-50 a fogger or a hazer?

REEL FX DF-50 is a "hazer" and is not designed to make "clouds", but to provide a transparent sustained mist to reflect light.

Do I have to use the manufacturer's fog juice in my fog machine?

No: However, for peace of mind and avoidance of any possible hassles, we would recommend using fog juice from the manufacturer of the machine you are using. There are some good after-market fluids available, but it is definitely a situation of buyer beware.

Can you use fog juice in DF-50's?

No: The DF-50 uses special juice. Regular fog juice will not work and may damage the DF-50.

What is a "hank"? How many feet are in a hank.?

A "hank" is a unit of measure for cord, rope, and tie line. There is 100' per hank.

FIXTURE QUESTIONS

Is your Par can silver or chrome?

Neither. The Polished Aluminum TMB ProCan has a very lustrous, shiny finish which is often referred to as "Silver" or "Chrome".

What is the difference between a snoot & a top hat?

Nothing. These terms are used for the same piece of equipment: a tube mounted to the front of a fixture, normally an ellipsoidal, to control light spill.

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 20=2.5", PAR 16=2.0"

Is the ETC Iris compatible with Altman Ellipsoidals?

No. The ETC Iris does not fit in any of Altman's ellipsoidal fixtures

What's the standard lamp for an 8-lite unit?

There is no standard. Any PAR 36 lamp will fit. However, the 2 screw terminal 120V DWE or FBO are most common.

Can you interchange all ETC Source Four lens tubes on any of the ETC ellipsoidal bodies?

Yes, you can interchange the lens tubes with the bodies. It is suggested, however, that if you are using any 5 degree tubes, you should use the ellipsoidal body with two clutches on it since the weight of the lens tube in addition to any accessories may cause the unit to tip.

Does ETC make a zoom ellipsoidal?

Yes. The Source Four Zoom was introduced at London's PLASA Show in 1998. This fixture uses the HPL Lamp. It is available in 2 sizes, 15 - 30 degree, and 25 - 50 degree.

LAMP QUESTIONS

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 @ 120V, burning at 3,250 degrees Kelvin. The 2000hr lamp is 115V and burns at 3,050 degrees Kelvin.

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.

LIGHTING EFFECTS QUESTIONS

Is the Aquaram water proof?

No, the term "waterproof" implies the ability to function under water. However the Wybron Aquaram is a scrolling colour-changer that is designed and built to operate in damp, outdoor applications. Our customers' experience has shown this unit to perform reliably in rainy, wet environments.

Are Cyberlights, Golden Scans or RoboScans available in 12OV?

Yes and No: Cyberlights and Roboscans are available in 120 Volt versions. The Golden Scan is only available in 220 Volts.

Will Wybron changers work off of Rainbow power supplies?

No.

TMB QUESTIONS

Are you a Rental Company?

No, absolutely not. Throughout our history, TMB's number one market has been the professional rental companies. TMB takes great care not to compete in its customers' markets.

Do you sell Christmas lights?

Yes. TMB provides everything a Lighting Company might need, including standard or custom light festoons! How many miles would you like?

Are you open on Saturday?

Yes: Our Sales office is not open over the weekend, but you can always reach us on our 24 hour pager (818-829-6116) to arrange an emergency shipment or to get an answer for an urgent question.

What does F.O.B. mean?

"Freight on Board" The "FOB point" is the place from which our customer is responsible for the shipping costs of an order.

TRUSSING/RIGGING QUESTIONS

Are spansets legal for permanent installations?

No. Permanently installed rigging equipment must be fire-resistant, which spansets are not.

Is my Tomcat/Thomas Lighting truss compatible with those of other manufacturers?

Yes and No. While there are several brands of truss that will intermate - the holes match up - the mixing of truss from different manufacturers is never recommended because of liability issues.

For joining truss together, which is stronger? Bolts or Cam-Locks?

Bolts. As long as you are using rated "Grade 8" nuts and bolts with substantial washers on both sides of the joint. TMB recommends bolts for most applications.

What length of chain do I use for a 30' G/S motor?

The length of chain you want to use for a 30" G/S motor is 72 1/2'.

Do TomCat, TFL & Thomas trusses inter-mate?

Yes, but not advisable. While several brands of truss do intermate, the mixing of truss from different manufacturers is never recommended because of liability.

What are the standard twist-locks for chain motors?

There is not a standard.

Can I use 12x12 Light Duty Truss for Ground Support uprights?

No: 12X12 Light Duty and 12X12 Tower trusses look quite similar. However the construction is different. Light Duty must not be used as an upright, but Tower will function regular truss or as an upright.

What are the standard sizes of rigging steel?

3/8" wire rope is used for 1-ton rigging. 1/2" wire rope is used for 2-ton rigging.