Which cable should I use for a power distributor?

For professional power distributors in event technology, use H07RN-F rubber cable with appropriate cross-section for the load. For 16A CEE distributors, 5×1.5 mm² (five-core: three phases, neutral, earth) is the minimum, though 5×2.5 mm² offers better safety margins and lower voltage drop. For 32A distributors, use 5×4.0 mm² or larger. Rubber-sheathed H07RN-F cable is oil-resistant, flexible and suitable for outdoor use, making it ideal for mobile event applications. Brands like Titanex offer enhanced durability for demanding touring environments.

What is the difference between 16A and 32A CEE connectors?

CEE 16A and 32A connectors differ in size, current capacity and typical applications. A 16A CEE connector (red, 400 V three-phase) handles up to 11 kW continuous load, suitable for most stage lighting rigs and small to medium PA systems. The 32A variant supports up to 22 kW, used for larger productions, multiple distributed loads or high-power equipment like large moving lights and amplifier racks. Physically, 32A connectors are larger with thicker pins, and they require correspondingly larger cable cross-sections (typically 5×4.0 mm² vs. 5×1.5 mm² for 16A). The two types are not interchangeable — a 16A plug will not fit a 32A socket.

When do I need a DMX terminator?

A DMX terminator is required on any DMX512 lighting control network longer than approximately 50 metres or with more than 20 fixtures in the daisy chain. The terminator — a 120-ohm resistor connected between DMX pins 2 and 3 (Data+ and Data–) — is installed at the last fixture in the chain. It absorbs signal reflections that would otherwise bounce back along the cable, causing data corruption, flickering or erratic fixture behaviour. Without proper termination, long cable runs or large fixture counts often result in unreliable operation, especially with fast-moving effects or strobing. Professional DMX terminators are available as XLR plug-in modules, or you can solder a 120-ohm resistor into a spare XLR connector.

What types of plug connections are used in event technology?

Professional event technology uses several standardised connector types. CEE connectors (IEC 60309) in 16A, 32A and 63A variants handle three-phase power distribution, with colour coding (blue for 230 V, red for 400 V) preventing mis-connection. Schuko (Schutzkontakt) plugs and sockets are standard for 230 V single-phase equipment. XLR connectors in 3-pin and 5-pin versions carry DMX lighting control and analogue audio signals. powerCON connectors (by Neutrik) provide a locking mains connection for powered loudspeakers and lighting fixtures, safer and more reliable than IEC C13/C14. Speakon connectors (also Neutrik) are the professional standard for speaker cables, offering secure locking and high current capacity. Each connector type is optimised for its specific application, ensuring safety and reliability in demanding production environments.

How do I calculate the load for a power distributor?

To calculate the load for a power distributor, sum the power consumption (in watts) of all connected equipment, then divide by the supply voltage to obtain current in amperes. For single-phase 230 V loads, use the formula: Current (A) = Power (W) ÷ 230. For three-phase 400 V loads, the calculation is: Current (A) = Power (W) ÷ (√3 × 400) ÷ efficiency factor. Always add a 20–30% safety margin to account for inrush currents, power factor and future expansion. Ensure loads are balanced across all three phases (L1, L2, L3) to prevent neutral overload. Check that the total current does not exceed the distributor's input rating (e.g. 16A for a CEE 16A input) and that individual outlet circuits remain within their rated capacity.

Which DMX cable should I buy for stage lighting?

For professional stage lighting, always use purpose-designed DMX512 cable with 110-ohm impedance and twisted-pair construction. Look for cables with robust shielding (foil plus braid, minimum 90% coverage) to prevent interference from nearby power cables. Brands like Sommer Cable, Cordial and Helukabel offer high-quality DMX cables with flexible, durable jackets suitable for touring. Choose 3-pin XLR for standard applications or 5-pin XLR for future compatibility and enhanced grounding. Avoid using standard microphone cables for DMX — they lack the correct impedance and shielding, leading to signal errors and unreliable operation. For permanent installations, specify UV-resistant or flame-retardant jackets as required by the environment.

What does IP44 protection mean for power distributors?

IP44 (Ingress Protection rating 44) indicates that a power distributor is protected against solid objects larger than 1 mm (e.g. wires, small tools) and against water splashes from any direction. The first digit (4) denotes protection against solid particles; the second digit (4) denotes protection against water. IP44 is the minimum standard for outdoor event equipment, ensuring safe operation in rain, damp conditions and dusty environments like festival sites or construction areas. However, IP44 does not mean the equipment is waterproof — it should not be submerged or exposed to high-pressure water jets. For harsher conditions, look for IP54 (dust-protected) or IP67 (dust-tight and waterproof) distributors.

How long can a DMX cable run be before signal quality degrades?

A properly terminated DMX512 cable run can reliably extend up to 300–400 metres before signal degradation becomes problematic, though the official DMX512 specification recommends a maximum of 250 metres. Beyond this distance, signal attenuation, capacitance and electromagnetic interference increase the risk of data errors, resulting in flickering, colour shifts or fixture dropouts. For longer runs, use a DMX splitter or booster to regenerate the signal — these devices receive the incoming DMX data, clean it up and retransmit it at full strength, effectively resetting the distance limit. Optical DMX systems extend this further, converting electrical signals to light and transmitting over fibre-optic cable for distances exceeding several kilometres with zero signal loss or interference.

Cables, Connectors & Power Distributors

PSSO DMX Kabel 3pol female/ offene Kabelenden

PSSO DMX cable XLR 3pol female/cable wires

Built with NEUTRIK connector • Package contents 1 x XLR cable • Cable length: 1 m • Plug A: 1 x 3-pin XLR (F) • Plug B: X • Use of brands: Built with NEUTRIK connector...

€13.90 *

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Showtec Powercable Powercon to Schuko 10m 3x 2,5 mm2

DAP-Audio Power Cable Neutrik powerCON to Schuko 3x 1.5 mm² 10 m

10 m, 3x 1.5 mm² : Rated Current (A): 16 A • Connector 1: Schuko Plug ( IP44 ) • Connector 2: powerCON Blue • Brand Connector 2: Neutrik • Cable Type: H05VV-F • Cable...

€42.90 *

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NEUTRIK PowerCon Einbaukupplung gr NAC3MPXXB

NEUTRIK PowerCon Mounting Connector gy NAC3MPXXB

Built with NEUTRIK connector • Made in Europe • IP classification: IP20 • Connector type: PowerCON (gray) • Construction: Mounting version • Connections: 4,8 mm flat plug...

€4.50 *

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PD-Connex CX107 DMX Terminator 3-pin

The CX Terminator plugs are designed to be connected to the last device in a daisy chain (DMX) to eliminate reflected signal noise that can confuse the operation of the lighting fixtures. The...

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€2.99 *

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DAP-Audio FLA38 - XLR 3P male to RJ45 female

: Impedance: 110 Ω • DMX Connector In: XLR 3P • Data Connector Out: RJ45 • Pins: 3 • Length (mm): 70 mm • Height (mm): 25 mm • Width (mm): 25 mm • Weight:...

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€7.65 *

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DAP-Audio FLA39 - XLR 3P female to RJ45 female

: Impedance: 110 Ω • DMX Connector Out: XLR 3P • Data Connector In: RJ45 • Pins: 3 • Length (mm): 70 mm • Height (mm): 25 mm • Width (mm): 25 mm • Weight:...

€7.75 *

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DAP-Audio FLA41 - XLR 5P female to RJ45 female

: Impedance: 110 Ω • DMX Connector Out: XLR 5P • Data Connector In: RJ45 • Pins: 5 • Length (mm): 70 mm • Height (mm): 25 mm • Width (mm): 25 mm • Weight:...

€8.05 *

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Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0100 - Netzkabel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0,75 mm² | 1 m

Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0100 - Power Cablel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm²| 1 m

Power Cablel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm²| 1 m Power cable with 3 x 0.75 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for every appliance with...

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Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0200 - Netzkabel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0,75 mm² | 2 m

Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0200 - Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 2 m

Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 2 m Cold appliance cable with 3 x 0.75 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for every...

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Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0300 - Netzkabel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0,75 mm² | 3 m

Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0300 - Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 3 m

Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 3 m Cold appliance cable with 3 x 0.75 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for every...

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Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0500 - Netzkabel IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0,75 mm² | 5 m

Adam Hall Cables 3 STAR PKD 0500 - Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 5 m

Power Cable IEC C13 x CEE7/7 3 x 0.75 mm² | 5 m Cold appliance cable with 3 x 0.75 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for every...

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Adam Hall Cables 4 STAR PKD 0200 - Kaltgerätekabel 3 x 1,5 mm²

Adam Hall Cables 4 STAR PKD 0200 - Cold appliance cable 3 x 1.5 mm²

Cold appliance cable 3 x 1.5 mm² IEC cable with 3 x 1.5 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for any appliance with a cold appliance...

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Adam Hall Cables 4 STAR PKD 1000 - Kaltgerätekabel 3 x 1,5 mm², 10 m

Adam Hall Cables 4 STAR PKD 1000 - Cold appliance cable 3 x 1.5 mm², 10 m

Cold appliance cable 3 x 1.5 mm², 10 m IEC cable with 3 x 1.5 mm² inner conductor cross-section • C13 to Schuko plug connector • Suitable for any appliance with a cold appliance...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR A MF2 JM2 - Adapter Miniklinke Female TS auf Klinke TS

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR A MF2 JM2 - Adapter Minijack female TS to Jack TS

Adapter Minijack female TS to Jack TS Mono jack adapter from our 3 Star Series • 3.5 mm jack to 6.3 mm jack • Nickel-plated contacts • Plastic housing • For adapting from mini...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM2 A - Klinke TRS | Winkelstecker

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM2 A - Jack TRS | angled plug

Jack TRS | angled plug 3 Star Series • Unbalanced jack connector in angled format • With metal strain relief • Sturdy and solid steel housing • Suitable for cables with a...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM2 GOLD - Klinke TS | mit vergoldeten Kontakten

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM2 GOLD - Jack TS | with gold-plated contacts

Jack TS | with gold-plated contacts 3 Star Series • Unbalanced jack connector • With metal strain relief • Sturdy and solid steel housing • Suitable for cables with a diameter...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM3 GOLD - Klinke TRS | mit vergoldeten Kontakten

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM3 GOLD - Jack TRS | with gold-plated contacts

Jack TRS | with gold-plated contacts 3 Star Series • Balanced jack connector • With metal strain relief • Sturdy and solid steel housing • Suitable for cables with a diameter of...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM3 MINI - Miniklinke TRS

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C JM3 MINI - Minijack TRS

Minijack TRS 3.5 mm jack plug from our 3 STAR SERIES • Symmetrical signal routing • for soldering to balanced cables • The high-quality mini jack plugs are the perfect choice for all...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR CX F3 BLK - XLR Stecker 3-Pol female

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR CX F3 BLK - XLR connector 3-pole female

XLR connector 3-pole female XLR connector from our 3 Star Series • For cables with a diameter of 4 - 8 mm • 3-pole connector with silver-plated contacts • Sturdy cast zinc housing...

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C XF3 PAIR - XLR Stecker 3-Pol Female | Paar

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR C XF3 PAIR - XLR plug 3-pole female | Paar

XLR plug 3-pole female | Paar XLR connector pair from our 3 Star Series • Suitable for cables with a diameter of 5 - 7 mm • 3-pole plug with silver plated contacts • Sturdy zinc...

€4.42 *

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR CX M3 BLK - XLR Stecker 3-Pol male

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR CX M3 BLK - XLR connector 3-pole male

XLR connector 3-pole male XLR connector from our 3 Star Series • For cables with a diameter of 4 - 8 mm • 3-pole plug with silver-plated contacts • Sturdy cast zinc housing with...

€3.26 *

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR P XF3 - Einbaubuchse XLR 3-Pol Female

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR P XF3 - Panel jack XLR 3-pole female

Panel jack XLR 3-pole female XLR chassis jack • D-shape EN: D-type housing • with silver plated contacts • solid zinc cast housing • Gender: Female • Matching our plugs...

€2.92 *

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Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR P XM3 - Einbaubuchse XLR 3-Pol Male

Adam Hall Connectors 3 STAR P XM3 - Panel jack XLR 3-pole male

Panel jack XLR 3-pole male XLR chassis jack • D-shape EN: D-type housing • with silver-plated contacts • solid zinc cast housing • Gender: Male • Matching our plugs from...

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Adam Hall Connectors 4 STAR CJM2 - Klinke TS

Adam Hall Connectors 4 STAR CJM2 - Jack TS

Jack TS TS jack plug from our 4 Star Series • Unbalanced jack connector • Metal strain relief and heat shrink tubing • Sturdy and solid zinc housing • Suitable for cables with a...

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€2.28 *

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Cable Connectors