Last Updated 3 months ago
Definition
Camlock connectors (often written as Cam-Lok) are high-amperage electrical connectors used on film sets to safely and efficiently distribute power to large lighting and grip setups. They are designed for quick connection and disconnection of heavy-gauge power cables, making them a standard tool for electricians and gaffers on professional productions.
Camlocks are typically used to connect generator power, distro boxes, lunchboxes, and dimmer racks, forming the backbone of a set’s electrical system.
Purpose and Use
Film and television lighting setups require high current loads that exceed standard household outlets. Camlocks allow the electric department to distribute hundreds of amps of power safely to various parts of the set. Their twist-and-lock design ensures a secure, low-resistance connection that can handle continuous heavy current without overheating or accidental disconnection.
They are color-coded for easy identification:
- Green – Ground
- White – Neutral
- Black / Red / Blue – Hot legs (phases)
On a typical North American set using 120/208V three-phase power, you’ll find a five-cable Camlock bundle: three hots, one neutral, and one ground.
Common Applications
- Connecting generators to distribution boxes.
- Feeding dimmer racks or large lighting consoles.
- Powering lighting grids on stage.
- Linking main distro to sub-distros or lunchboxes around set.
Camlocks are rated for up to 400 amps per connector, depending on cable gauge and configuration, making them ideal for high-wattage lights such as HMIs, large tungsten fixtures, or LED arrays requiring substantial current.
Safety and Handling
Because of their high voltage and current capacity, only trained electricians or qualified film set electrics should connect or disconnect Camlocks. Safety protocols include:
- Always connect ground first, disconnect ground last.
- Verify that power is off before making or breaking connections.
- Ensure all connectors are properly locked and strain-relieved.
- Keep connections dry and elevated off wet ground.
Why It Matters
Camlocks are the industry standard for safely delivering power to large-scale lighting and rigging setups. Understanding their use and color coding is fundamental for anyone working in the electric department, especially best boys, rigging electrics, and gaffers responsible for managing power distribution on set.
Related Terms
- [Bates Connector] A smaller, multi-pin connector used for 20A–100A circuits.
- [Distro Box] A portable power distribution unit that receives power from Camlocks.
- [Lunchbox] A small, portable distro that steps down power from a larger feed for on-set use.