Stage lighting is an essential aspect of any production, whether it is a play, a concert, or a dance performance. The use of lighting can greatly enhance the overall experience for the audience, as it can set the mood, create different environments, and highlight specific characters or elements of the performance. However, it is crucial for stage lighting to be safe, effective, and efficient.
How can GTG assist you with the tests on stage lights?
(1) Electrical safety test
- Insulation test: the insulation test is conducted to ensure that the stage light’s insulation is intact and that there are no electrical leaks. This test is conducted using a high voltage tester, and the voltage is applied to the insulation to see if it can withstand the voltage without any leaks.
- Earth continuity test: the earth continuity test is conducted to ensure that the stage light is properly grounded. This test is conducted by applying a small voltage to the metal parts of the stage light and checking if the voltage is conducted to the earth wire.
- Polarity test: the polarity test is conducted to ensure that the stage light is wired correctly. This test is conducted by using a multimeter to check the voltage between the positive and negative terminals of the stage light.
- Load test: the load test is conducted to ensure that the stage light can handle the load it is designed for. This test is conducted by applying the maximum load to the stage light and checking if it can handle it without any issues.
- Thermal test: the thermal test is conducted to ensure that the stage light can handle high temperatures without malfunctioning. This test is conducted by exposing the stage light to high temperatures and checking if it can operate properly.
- Voltage drop test: the voltage drop test is conducted to ensure that the stage light can handle voltage drops without malfunctioning. This test is conducted by applying a lower voltage to the stage light and checking if it can operate properly.
- Dielectric strength test: the dielectric strength test is conducted to ensure that the stage light can withstand high voltage without breaking down. This test is conducted by applying a high voltage to the stage light and checking if it can withstand it without any issues.
(2) Photometric test
- Luminous intensity test: the luminous intensity test is used to measure the amount of light emitted by a fixture in a specific direction. This test is performed using a goniophotometer, which measures the intensity of light at various angles. The results of this test are used to determine the optimal placement of the fixture.
- Color temperature test: the color temperature test is used to measure the color of light emitted by a fixture. This test is performed using a spectrophotometer, which measures the spectrum of light emitted by the fixture. The results of this test are used to ensure that the color of the light is consistent across all fixtures.
- Beam angle test: the beam angle test is used to measure the angle of the beam of light emitted by a fixture. This test is performed using a goniophotometer, which measures the angle of the beam at various distances from the fixture. The results of this test are used to ensure that the beam of light is directed where it is needed.
- Field angle test: the field angle test is used to measure the coverage area of the beam of light emitted by a fixture. This test is performed using a goniophotometer, which measures the angle of the beam at various distances from the fixture. The results of this test are used to ensure that the beam of light covers the desired area.
- CRI test: the CRI test is used to measure how accurately a fixture reproduces colors. This test is performed using a spectrophotometer, which measures the color rendering index of the light emitted by the fixture. The results of this test are used to ensure that the colors on stage appear as they should.
- Flicker test: the flicker test is used to measure the amount of flicker present in the light emitted by a fixture. This test is performed using a photometer, which measures the amount of variation in light output over time. The results of this test are used to ensure that the light is stable and does not flicker.
(3) Photobiological safety test
Photobiological safety tests are conducted to evaluate the potential risk of harm that can be caused by optical radiation from stage lights. These tests assess the risk of damage to the skin, eyes, and other organs from exposure to light from stage lights.
There are several types of photobiological safety tests, including spectral measurements, radiometric measurements, and biological measurements. Spectral measurements evaluate the spectral power distribution of the light source. Radiometric measurements evaluate the light source’s radiant power, while biological measurements evaluate the biological effects of the light source.
- Spectral measurements: spectral measurements are used to measure the spectral power distribution of the light source. These measurements help to determine the wavelength range of the light source, which is important in evaluating the potential risk of harm to human health.
- Radiometric measurements: radiometric measurements evaluate the radiant power of the light source. These measurements help to determine the amount of energy emitted by the light source, which is important in evaluating the potential risk of harm to human health.
- Biological measurements: biological measurements evaluate the biological effects of the light source. These measurements help to determine the potential risk of harm to human health. These tests evaluate the effects of the light source on the skin, eyes, and other organs.
- Skin phototoxicity: skin phototoxicity is a type of photobiological safety test that evaluates the potential risk of harm to the skin. This test assesses the potential of the light source to cause skin damage, including sunburn and erythema.
- Eye safety: eye safety is a type of photobiological safety test that evaluates the potential risk of harm to the eyes. This test assesses the potential of the light source to cause damage to the eyes, including photokeratitis and retinal damage.
- Blue light hazard: blue light hazard is a type of photobiological safety test that evaluates the potential risk of harm to the eyes. This test assesses the potential of the light source to cause damage to the retina, which can lead to permanent vision loss.
- Infrared radiation: infrared radiation is a type of photobiological safety test that evaluates the potential risk of harm to the skin. This test assesses the potential of the light source to cause skin damage, including burns and tissue damage.
- Ultraviolet radiation: ultraviolet radiation is a type of photobiological safety test that evaluates the potential risk of harm to the skin. This test assesses the potential of the light source to cause skin damage, including sunburn and skin cancer.
(4) EMC test
EMC is the ability of electronic equipment to function correctly in a shared environment without causing electromagnetic interference.
- Radiated emissions test: the Radiated Emissions Test measures the amount of electromagnetic energy that is emitted by the stage lights. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not interfere with other electronic equipment in the vicinity.
- Conducted emissions test: the Conducted Emissions Test is similar to the Radiated Emissions Test, except it measures the amount of electromagnetic energy that is emitted through the power cords. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not interfere with other electronic equipment that is connected to the same power source.
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) test: the ESD Test is used to ensure that the stage lights are not damaged by static electricity. This test involves applying a static charge to the stage lights and then measuring the amount of energy that is discharged.
- Electrical fast transient/burst test: the Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Test is used to simulate the effects of a sudden power surge on the stage lights. This test measures the ability of the stage lights to withstand sudden changes in voltage.
- Surge test: the Surge Test is similar to the Electrical Fast Transient/Burst Test, except it simulates a larger power surge. This test measures the ability of the stage lights to withstand larger changes in voltage.
- Voltage dips and interruptions test: the Voltage Dips and Interruptions Test is used to simulate the effects of power outages on the stage lights. This test measures the ability of the stage lights to continue functioning when there are sudden drops or interruptions in voltage.
- Power frequency magnetic field test: the Power Frequency Magnetic Field Test is used to measure the amount of magnetic energy that is emitted by the stage lights. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not interfere with other electronic equipment that is sensitive to magnetic fields.
- Voltage fluctuations and flicker test: the Voltage Fluctuations and Flicker Test is used to measure the amount of voltage fluctuations and flicker that occur when the stage lights are in use. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not cause discomfort or health issues for the performers or audience members.
- Harmonic current emissions test: the Harmonic Current Emissions Test is used to measure the amount of harmonic distortion that is produced by the stage lights. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not interfere with other electronic equipment that is sensitive to harmonic distortion.
- Voltage unbalance test: the Voltage Unbalance Test measures the amount of voltage unbalance that occurs when the stage lights are in use. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights do not cause damage to the power source or other electronic equipment that is connected to the same power source.
- Immunity to electrostatic discharge test: the Immunity to Electrostatic Discharge Test measures the ability of the stage lights to withstand static electricity. This test involves applying a static charge to the stage lights and then measuring their ability to function correctly.
- Immunity to transient/burst test: the Immunity to Transient/Burst Test measures the ability of the stage lights to withstand sudden changes in voltage. This test is important because it ensures that the stage lights are not damaged by power surges or other sudden changes in voltage.
(5) Energy efficiency test
When it comes to energy efficiency tests for stage lights, there are a few key aspects that are evaluated:
- Luminous efficacy: this measures how much light is produced per watt of electricity consumed. Higher luminous efficacy means more efficient use of energy.
- Power consumption: the total power consumed by the stage lights is measured to assess their energy efficiency. Lower power consumption indicates better energy efficiency.
- Heat output: stage lights can generate a significant amount of heat, which not only affects the performers but also increases energy consumption for cooling. Energy efficiency tests consider the heat output of the lights and explore ways to minimize it.
(6) Mechanical tests
- Drop test: the drop test is a crucial mechanical test that stage lights must undergo. During this test, the light is dropped from a height of 1 meter onto a concrete floor. The test is carried out to determine the light’s durability and strength. The light must pass this test without any significant damage to the body or components.
- Vibration test: the vibration test is another crucial mechanical test for stage lights. The light is subjected to different frequencies and amplitudes of vibrations to ensure that it can withstand the rigors of theatrical use. This test is essential to ensure that the light can operate smoothly without any damage or malfunction.
- Impact test: the impact test is another important mechanical test that stage lights undergo. The light is subjected to different types and levels of impacts to simulate the rigors of theatrical use. The test is carried out to ensure that the light can withstand any accidental impacts without any significant damage.
(7) Environmental test
- Temperature test: the temperature test is crucial to ensure that the stage light can withstand different temperature ranges. The light is subjected to different temperature ranges, from extreme cold to extreme heat, to determine its durability and reliability. This test is essential to ensure that the light can function optimally under any temperature conditions.
- Humidity test: the humidity test is another crucial mechanical test that stage lights undergo. The light is subjected to different humidity levels to determine its resistance to moisture. This test is essential to ensure that the light can withstand humid conditions without any damage or malfunction.
- Salt spray test: the salt spray test is carried out to determine the light’s resistance to corrosion. The light is subjected to a saline solution to simulate the effects of saltwater corrosion. This test is essential to ensure that the light can withstand corrosive environments without any significant damage.
- Dust test: the dust test is carried out to ensure that the stage light can operate optimally in dusty environments. The light is subjected to different levels of dust to determine its resistance to dust accumulation. This test is essential to ensure that the light can function smoothly without any obstruction from dust particles.
- Water resistance test: the water resistance test is carried out to ensure that the stage light can function optimally in wet conditions. The light is subjected to different water levels to determine its resistance to water penetration. This test is essential to ensure that the light can operate smoothly in wet conditions without any damage or malfunction.
How can GTG assist you with the certifications or markings for stage lights?
(1) CE mark
The CE mark is a mandatory certification for all electrical equipment sold in the European Union, including stage lights. This certification ensures that the equipment meets minimum safety standards and has been tested by an accredited third-party laboratory. Any stage lights sold in the EU must carry the CE mark, and failure to comply can result in fines and legal action.
(2) UL listing
UL is an American certification program that is widely recognized around the world. It is not mandatory for stage lights to carry UL certification, but many manufacturers choose to do so to demonstrate that their products meet high safety standards. UL certification involves extensive testing of the equipment, as well as regular audits of the manufacturer’s production processes.
(3) CSA certification
The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) is a certification program that is similar to UL. It is mandatory for all electrical equipment sold in Canada to carry CSA certification, and many manufacturers choose to certify their products with both UL and CSA to ensure compliance with both American and Canadian safety standards.
(4) ETL certification
ETL is a certification program that is similar to UL. It is widely recognized in the US and Canada, and is often used by manufacturers of stage lights and other electrical equipment. ETL certification involves extensive testing and auditing to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
(5) RoHS certification
RoHS stands for Restriction of Hazardous Substances, and is a certification that applies to all electrical equipment sold in the EU. It ensures that the equipment does not contain certain hazardous materials, such as lead and mercury, which can be harmful to human health and the environment.
(6) WEEE certification
WEEE stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, and is another EU certification program that applies to all electrical equipment, including stage lights. It ensures that the equipment is designed and manufactured in a way that makes it easy to recycle and dispose of in an environmentally friendly way.
(7) IP rating
IP stands for Ingress Protection, and is a rating system that measures how well a piece of electrical equipment is protected against dust and water. Stage lights are often exposed to harsh environments, such as outdoor festivals, so it is important to choose equipment with a high IP rating to ensure that it can withstand the elements.
(8) ESTA certification
The Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) is a non-profit trade association that represents companies involved in the live event and entertainment industry. ESTA offers a range of certification programs for various aspects of the industry, including stage lighting. ESTA certification is not mandatory, but it demonstrates a commitment to high standards and best practices in the industry.
(9) PLASA certification
PLASA is another trade association that represents the live event and entertainment industry. Like ESTA, PLASA offers a range of certification programs for various aspects of the industry, including stage lighting. PLASA certification is not mandatory, but it is widely recognized as a mark of quality and professionalism.
Why the biggest brands trust GTG Group?
GTG Group (Global Testing Group) is a certification company that offers testing and certification services to different industries. Our expertise in stage lights testing and certification has made us a trusted name in the industry.
(1) Independent and impartial testing
GTG Group is a third-party testing company, which means we are not affiliated with any specific manufacturer. This impartiality can provide camera manufacturers and consumers with confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the testing process, and ensure that the camera meets the required standards.
(2) Confidentiality and security
GTG Group understands the importance of confidentiality and security when it comes to testing and certification. We ensure that our clients’ data and information are kept confidential and secure at all times. This ensures that our clients’ intellectual property and trade secrets are protected.
Contact GTG Group today for stage lights testing and certification to avoid any legal issues that may arise from using faulty stage lights.
