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Par
An abridged version of Par Lamp, Par Can, or Par Light.

Parabolic Reflector
A reflector designed to align light rays generally parallel to the axis formed by the point source and the center of the reflector, eventually resulting in a cylindrical-to-wide beam. The reflector has the shape of a paraboloid.

Par Can
A generally lightweight luminaire that uses a PAR-lamp, or in some cases, ray light reflector kit. The light beam characteristics depend on the type of lamp used.

Par-Lamp
A designation for a type of lamp. In this case, one with a parabolic aluminized reflector.

Par-Light
A generally lightweight luminaire that utilizes a PAR lamp. The beam characteristics depend on the type of PAR lamp used.

Pattern
A very thin, heat-resistant metal plate with a design cut out of its surface. When placed into the aperture of an ellipsoidal spotlight or follow spot via the pattern slot, an illuminated representation of the design is projected.

Pattern Holder
A metal frame with a knob used to place patterns into the pattern slot of a luminaire.

Pattern Rotator
A motorized pattern holder that spins the pattern.

Photometric
A term used to describe anything that involves the measurement of light.

Photometric Data
Measurements of light and its properties.

Photometrics
An abridged version of Photometric Data.

Photometry
The science of measuring light and its properties.

Pigeon
A small metal plate with nail-holes and a 5/8 stud attached.

Pigtail
The relatively short electric cable, power cord, or leads on a luminaire or piece of power distribution equipment that may or may not have a connector installed.

Pigtail Connector
A connector that is installed on a pigtail.

Pinspot
A spotlight that has an extremely narrow beam.

Pipe Clamp
A “C” shaped clamp with jaws that attaches onto a pipe and locks with the aid of a bolt, that when tightened, bites into the pipe and locks the clamp in place. It also has a secondary bolt for the attachment of luminaires, distribution equipment, etc.

Plano
A term used to describe a lens side that is perfectly flat.

Plano-Convex Lens
A lens that is plano one one side and convex on the other. These lenses converge light rays passing through them.

Polarizing Filters
Polarizing camera filters can be set to reduce most glare, as well as darken blue skies. Best camera angle: 90° to the source light. Light loss: approximately. 2 stops.
Tip: polarizing gels may be damaged if used close to high-wattage tungsten lamps.

Pole Cat
In the film and video industries, a spring loaded, adjustable cross bar that when placed between a pair of walls or structures, allows for the attachment of lightweight luminaires or grip equipment.

Pole-Op
An abridged version of Pole-Operated.

Pole-Operated
A term used to describe a luminaire, yoke, pantograph, or other apparatus that can be controlled via an operating pole.

Pot
An abridged version of Potentiometer.

Potentiometer (Pot)
An electrical component that has the ability to vary the resistance in an electrical circuit. It always has a means for adjustment, such as a knob or handle.

Pyrex
A type of borosilicate glass that can withstand very high temperatures,used for lenses and mirrors. Manufactured by Corning Glass Co., the name Pyrex is trademarked.

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