Running a 1.2k HMI off a 240v 15amp socket?

[Mark Kenfield]

Hi guys,

I'm looking into picking up a 1.2k HMI (since I seem to always need at least one source with that much kick these days). And I've stumbled onto a couple of possibilities. In particular the older Profoto 1.2k HMIs, which are just like a Joker Bug and can be paired with their new PAR Reflector or any other Profoto modifiers. Or the other alternative is a Broncolor 1.2k HMI PAR.

I need to be portable with these lights, so what I'm trying to determine, is whether I'll be able to start properly and run off a 240v 15amp socket? (namely, one attached to a 3000w gennie like this: NEW MTM 4 4KVA Pure Sinewave Inverter Generator Silent Portable Petrol Camping | eBay).

I know that 1.2k HMIs can be iffy on 120v 15amp sockets (due to the higher amperage they draw whilst starting up), but I don't know whether a 240v supply nullifies that issue?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Also if anyone is familiar with the 1.2k Profoto or Broncolor HMIs I'd love to hear your thoughts, namely on build quality and noise levels.

Cheers,

Mark

[Brian Drysdale]

In the UK we regularly use 2.5k HMIs on our 240 volt 13 Amp domestic electrics. The problems arise when you overload the circuit with a number of lights, you need to spread the load around the circuits, so you don't overload any single circuit,

[Mark Kenfield]

Cheers Brian, think I'll be alright then.