Portable power distribution box for film sets with 16A fuse, RCD protection, and up to 6 Schuko outlets. Delivers flexible power to lighting fixtures; professional Merten models rated at 3680W maximum.
Technical Details
Standard film gang boxes are equipped with 16A circuit breakers and feature an RCD (30mA). Professional models like the Merten Film Box offer 6x Schuko outlets with a maximum load of 3680W. Heavy-duty variants for HMI lights operate with 32A or 63A CEE connectors and corresponding three-phase distribution boards. The housing is made of impact-resistant plastic (IP44 protection class) or die-cast aluminum for outdoor use.
Special versions include DMX-integrated boxes for remotely controllable dimmers, boxes with voltmeters/ammeters for load monitoring, and explosion-proof variants (ATEX certification) for pyrotechnic shoots.
History & Development
The first gang boxes emerged in the 1930s in Hollywood studios as simple wooden boxes with Bakelite outlets. In 1952, Mole-Richardson introduced the first weatherproof metal version. The breakthrough came in 1967 with the introduction of the RCD following a fatal electric shock on the set of "Bonnie and Clyde." Modern developments since 2010 integrate PowerCON connectors for LED panels and USB charging ports for camera batteries.
Practical Use in Film
Over 200 gang boxes were used on "Blade Runner 2049" (2017) to power the 15,000W LED walls of the replicant headquarters. Typical workflow: The gang boxes are run in a star configuration from the main distribution board (distro), with a maximum of three 2.5kW lights connected per 20m cable run.
Disadvantages include voltage drops over 50m cable length (up to 8V loss) and the increased fire risk from daisy-chaining multiple boxes.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike permanently installed studio overhead distribution units, gang boxes offer maximum flexibility for location shoots. Modern Powerlock systems (Cam-Lok connectors) are increasingly replacing Schuko distributions in large productions, as they allow for higher currents (up to 400A) with a more compact design. Wireless power systems like "PowerCaster" are under development but remain limited to 500W, making them unsuitable for tungsten lighting.