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B
BAUD
(Bits per second) Measurement of the speed of electronic communications protocols. DMX512 operates at 250,000 baud (i.e. 250,000 electronic signal changes per second).
BC HOLDER
Type of UK domestic lampholder that has largely been replaced by the ES (Edison Screw) and the GES (Goliath Edison Screw) for general lighting applications in the theater. Stage lighting equipment uses prefocus lamp bases. (Most types of Festoon still use BC holders).
BEAM ANGLE
The angle of the cone of light produced by a lantern. Defined as the angle within which the lowest intensity in a beam of light from a lantern is not less than one-tenth of the maximum.
BEAM SPREAD
The width of a light beam, expressed in degrees. The beam of light from a reflector-type lamp (PAR, R, ER, or MR) can be thought of as a cone. The beam spread is the angular width of the cone. Common beam spreads are known as spot, narrow, narrow flood and flood.
BEAMLIGHT
Flood lantern which uses a parabolic reflector and a low voltage high intensity lamp to produce an intense near-parallel beam. Also known as a Beam Projector.
A PARCAN is a special type of beamlight.
BECTU
Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theater Union. The UK entertainment technicians union. (US equivalent is IATSE)
BEGINNERS
A call given by the DSM to bring those actors who appear in the first part of a play to the stage. e.g. "Act One Beginners to the stage, please". The actors/actresses are then called by name. A similar call is given after the interval (e.g. "Act Two Beginners to the stage please").
BELTPACK
Part of the communication ("cans") system in a theater, the Beltpack contains the controls and circuitry to drive the HEADSET worn by crew members. Each beltpack connects into the headset ring and back to a PSU (Power Supply Unit) which is powered from the mains.
BETAPACK
Portable 6 way dimmer pack manufactured in the UK by Zero88.
BIFOCAL SPOT
Profile lantern with two sets of shutters, one of which produces a hard edge, and one a soft edge. Not necessary in zoom profiles, because this requirement is fulfilled by two lenses.
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