Power Distribution

Distribution boxes, rack PDUs and inline protection for getting a supply from the incomer out to a stage, a lighting rig or a rack, from Elumen8, PCE, Penn Elcom and Transcension. The range runs from a rubber box splitting 32A into six 13A sockets up to three-phase MERZ distribution at 125A with RCD and MCB protection built in.

The right unit is decided by the supply you are given, not the one you would like. Event supplies arrive as 13A, 16A, 32A, 63A or 125A, single or three phase, and the distro has to accept that inlet and break it down into the outlets your equipment actually uses. Inline RCD units cover the case where the supply is unprotected, and they are the cheapest insurance in this category. Rack PDUs cover the other end of the job, feeding equipment inside a case from one inlet, with powerCON, IEC and universal socket versions to suit what is in the rack.

Three-phase distribution deserves care. Balancing loads across the phases is part of the job, and equipment fed from different phases should not end up connected together by signal cables in a way that puts them in series. If that sentence raises a question rather than answering one, the work belongs with a competent electrician.

Practical points that save trouble on site: check whether a box provides through-connectors as well as outlets if you are looping to a second position, look at the RCD arrangement because one 30mA device covering everything means one nuisance trip takes the whole rig down, and note the IP rating for outdoor use. Label what each drop feeds before the show rather than during it.

The cable to feed and distribute from these units is under Power Cables and Cable Drums, and connectors are in the Connectors section.

The event power guide works up from a 13A plug to Powerlock, stage power for bands covers small events, and the Socapex guide covers multicore for lighting.

Power Distribution FAQs

Which distro do I need? The one that accepts the supply you are actually given, 13A to 125A, single or three phase, and breaks it into the outlets your kit uses. The venue’s incomer decides, not your wishlist. Full walkthrough in event power distribution explained.

Do I need RCD protection? Where the supply is unprotected or unknown, yes, inline RCD units and protected distros cover exactly that case, and outdoor events should treat them as non-negotiable.

What about band power on stage? The stage power checklist covers the distro-to-backline chain venues actually need.