Power Calculation Basics
Understanding power math is essential for any producer managing technical production. Getting this wrong means tripped breakers, damaged equipment, or expensive generator upgrades on-site.
The Formula
- Watts = Volts × Amps
- Amps = Watts ÷ Volts
- Standard US outlet: 120V / 20A = 2,400W max (use 80% rule = 1,920W usable)
- High-power circuits: 208V or 240V for large AV, HVAC, catering equipment
Common Equipment Power Draw
| Equipment | Typical Wattage | Circuit Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Laptop / Media Server | 200-500W | Standard 20A |
| 55" Monitor | 100-200W | Standard 20A |
| LED Wall Panel | 50-150W each | Dedicated circuit per 10-15 panels |
| Powered Speaker | 500-2,000W | Dedicated 20A per speaker |
| Moving Head Light | 300-1,200W | Dedicated circuit per 2-4 fixtures |
| Espresso Machine | 1,500-2,000W | Dedicated 20A (do NOT share) |
| Blender | 500-1,500W | Dedicated 20A recommended |
| Space Heater | 1,500W | Dedicated 20A |
| Portable AC Unit | 1,000-1,500W | Dedicated 20A |
Generator Sizing Guide
- Small activation: 20-50 kW (food + basic AV + lighting)
- Mid-size event: 50-150 kW (full AV + LED + catering + HVAC)
- Large-scale: 200+ kW or multiple generators with distribution
- Always add 25% buffer above calculated total load
- Quiet generators ("whisper" units) for events with audio — standard generators are 70-80 dB
Distribution Types
- Edison (standard plug): 120V/20A — for laptops, monitors, small equipment
- L6-20/L6-30: 208-240V twist-lock — for larger AV equipment
- Cam-lock: High-amperage feeder cable — connects generator to distribution panels
- Distro box: Breaks cam-lock feeds into standard outlets — your AV vendor will provide these
Key Rules
- Never share circuits between AV and catering — voltage drops and noise interference
- All outdoor power must be GFCI protected
- Cable runs must be covered or ramped for pedestrian safety
- Label every circuit at the distro box — saves hours of troubleshooting
- Have a licensed electrician on call for any event with generator power