How To Change the Color on a Par Light
PAR lights are parabolic aluminum reflector lights. PARs, known as "cans," are an industry standard for live performance theatrical lighting and on film production sets. A permanently focused lens similar to sealed-beam headlamps found on cars and trucks concentrates light on a specific distant area. Once mounted no further beam width adjustment is possible. To change the color you need to physically change the plastic sheet, or gel, located in a frame mounted on the light fixture in front of the PAR's light beam.
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Things You'll Need
- PAR light
- Gel frame
- Sheet of colored gel (plastic)
- Gloves (if equipment is hot)
- Matte knife or scissors (if gel sheets need trimming)
Instructions
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Safety
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1
Shut off the power to the PAR and unplug the light.
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2
Select the color gel you will be installing. Cut the gel to fit the size frame needed for your PAR using scissors or a matte knife. The gel frame and gels are generally square in shape and overhang the edges of the round metal canister that holds the PAR bulb.
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3
Insert a gel into the metal frame designed for your light. Make certain that it is securely inserted.
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4
Hold the frame with gel over the opening in the light's bracket and slowly slide it down into the bracket. Check to be sure it is securely housed inside the bracket and will not fall out.
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5
Flip the latch or turn the thumb-wheel if a locking device is provided to further secure the frame.
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6
Plug in the PAR and turn on the power.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Theatrical lighting utilizes specially designed electrical plugs to make connection to the "lighting board" or other switching sub-units. Brackets are available to commercially hold multiple gels for ease of adjusting shades during technical rehearsals or making color changes between scenes. The advent of light emitting diode (LED) lights has also affected modern theatre lighting. LED PAR's are available giving the benefits of less heat, less electric demand and longer-lasting efficiency. LED bulbs are themselves colored so there is no need to use gels in many applications. Theatrical LED PAR's come in a variety of colors and may be purchased with multiple colors installed providing lighting shades in combination or when used alone.
If you are making changes immediately after the PAR has been in use, wear protective gloves if necessary. Whenever involved in electrical work be aware of and avoid electrocution hazards. Be certain the gel frame is secure. You do not wish it to fall on the audience or actors.
