Cinematographer
Aus DoP-Perspektive ist dieses Element essentiell für die visuelle Gestaltung. Es ermöglicht mir die gewünschte Farbstimmung und das ästhetische Bild konsistent umzusetzen.
ECT is an ANSI/LIF lamp code for a 500W photoflood incandescent lamp rated 3200K (120V, PS-25 bulb, E26 base).
Overview
ECT is not a manufacturer or a device, but a three-letter ANSI/LIF lamp code. Such codes (e.g., ECT, ECA, FEL, BTL) designate standardized photo and studio lamps across manufacturers: lamps with the same code are interchangeable in wattage, voltage, bulb shape, base, luminous flux, and color temperature. The code is usually printed directly on the lamp bulb.
Behind the code ECT lies a Photoflood incandescent lamp for 500 watts at 120 volts with a color temperature of 3200 K. It is offered by several manufacturers, including Osram/Sylvania, Eiko, and Ushio, all of whom list it under the same ECT code.
Technical Data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | 500 W |
| Voltage | 120 V (US mains voltage) |
| Current Draw | 4.17 A |
| Color Temperature | 3200 K (Artificial Light/Tungsten) |
| Luminous Flux | approx. 13,650 lm (initial value) |
| Average Lifespan | approx. 60 hours |
| Bulb Shape | PS-25, internally frosted |
| Base | E26 (Medium Screw) |
| Filament | C-9 |
| Dimensions | Overall length approx. 155 mm, bulb diameter approx. 80 mm |
Note: 120 V is the North American mains voltage. On a European 230 V mains, the lamp requires a corresponding transformer or an adapted circuit.
Use on Set
The ECT provides warm, artificial light-balanced light at 3200 K, placing it in the classic Tungsten world. It is used in simple studio spotlights, floodlights, and photofloods, as well as in darkrooms and projectors.
Characteristic is the combination typical for photofloods of high luminous flux and very short lifespan (around 60 hours): the lamp is operated beyond its rated power to achieve more light and a stable 3200 K color temperature, which greatly shortens its burn time. As an incandescent lamp, it has very good color rendering.
- Advantage: inexpensive, immediate 3200 K, high luminous efficacy, good color rendering.
- Disadvantage: very short lifespan, high heat development, not directly usable on 230 V.
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.
More in the lexikon
Related terms
Test your knowledge
Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „ECT (500W 3200K)"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?