Cinematographer
Aus DoP-Perspektive ist dieses Element essentiell für die visuelle Gestaltung. Es ermöglicht mir die gewünschte Farbstimmung und das ästhetische Bild konsistent umzusetzen.
ECA is the ANSI lamp code for a 250-W photoflood incandescent bulb (120 V, 3200 K) in A-23 envelope with E26 screw base.
Overview
ECA is a three-digit ANSI lamp code and does not refer to a specific brand, but rather a standardized lamp type: a 250-watt Photoflood incandescent lamp for 120 volts and a color temperature of 3200 K. Because ECA is an ANSI code, several manufacturers such as Ushio, Eiko, Osram/Sylvania, Philips, and GE supply identical, interchangeable lamps under the same designation.
Photoflood lamps like the ECA are overloaded (overrun) general-purpose incandescent lamps: the filament is operated at a higher temperature than in normal household bulbs to achieve the 3200 K color temperature suitable for tungsten film and artificial light balanced shots. The high operating point provides high light output but a very short lifespan.
Technical Data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| ANSI Code | ECA |
| Wattage | 250 W |
| Operating Voltage | 120 V |
| Color Temperature | 3200 K |
| Luminous Flux | approx. 6500 Lumens |
| Bulb Shape | A-23 (inside frost) |
| Base | E26 (Edison Medium Screw) |
| Filament | C-9 |
| Average Lifespan | approx. 20 hours |
The ECA is a classic incandescent lamp without halogen filling. The internally frosted bulb surface produces a more uniform, softer beam pattern than a clear bulb.
Set Usage
The ECA is screwed into simple E26 sockets and operated in reflector dishes, clamp light reflectors, or compact studio lights. Its 3200 K characteristic makes it an artificial light balanced source that can be mixed with other tungsten lights on set. Typical application areas include photo and video studios, theater and stage lighting, and small set constructions.
The very short average lifespan of around 20 hours, resulting from the overrun operation, is practically relevant: Photoflood lamps are to be planned as consumables and should only be switched on during the actual recording. Since the ECA is designed for 120 V, it is primarily found in the 110/120 V mains (North America); in the European 230 V mains, care must be taken regarding the correct voltage.
From the crafts
Perspectives
Producer
Diese professionelle Lösung erhöht die Produktionseffizienz und reduziert Post-Production-Anforderungen. Sie ermöglicht flexible, schnelle Anpassungen während des Drehs.
Gaffer
Als Gaffer ist dies ein unverzichtbares Werkzeug meines täglichen Handwerkszeugs. Es ermöglicht mir professionelle Lichtkontrolle und schnelle Anpassungen auf Set, was Zeit spart und Qualität sichert.
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Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „ECA (250W 3200K)"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?