How do you build power redundancy for a show?
Quick answer
Power redundancy for a show is built by using dual power feeds from separate sources, redundant amplifiers with automatic failover, and UPS systems to cover critical electronics like DSP and consoles.
Building power redundancy starts at the mains: secure two independent power feeds from separate utility drops or generators, each capable of running the full system. Use automatic transfer switches (ATS) to switch seamlessly if one feed fails. For outdoor events, deploy dual generators with paralleling capability and fuel redundancy.
At the rack level, SSOUNDS recommends powering each amplifier from a different phase or feed, and using amplifiers with dual power supplies that can run on one supply if the other fails. For DSP and network switches, use dual-redundant power supplies and a UPS to bridge short interruptions. Signal redundancy—such as AES/EBU or Dante with redundant paths—completes the chain.
Test failover scenarios during setup: simulate a power loss on one feed and verify that the system continues without audible dropout. Document power distribution with clear labeling and assign a dedicated technician to monitor power during the show.
Key things to consider
- Use two independent power sources (grid/generator) with automatic transfer switches.
- Deploy amplifiers with dual power supplies and feed them from separate phases.
- Power DSP, consoles, and network switches via dual-redundant UPS units.
- Implement signal redundancy (e.g., Dante primary/secondary) alongside power redundancy.
- Test failover procedures during soundcheck and assign a power monitor for the event.
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