In short
Stand electrics start with a list: add up the watts of every light, screen, fridge and machine, add a margin and order the supply from the official contractor before the deadline. Mark on your plan where the connection should arrive, because the position may be fixed after that. Ask for 24-hour supply for anything that must stay on overnight, and have qualified electricians do the stand's own wiring.
Key points
- Add up the load first, then order.
- A connection is positioned on a plan.
- Normal supply may be cut overnight.
- Late orders cost more, and may not be possible.
Work out the load
Use the stand power calculator. Check the data sheets for real figures, and remember equipment such as heaters and coffee machines, which draw a lot of power in bursts. LED walls need particular attention; ask your AV supplier for maximum and typical power.
| Item | How to find its load |
|---|---|
| Spotlights | Number × watts on the data sheet |
| LED strip | Metres × watts per metre, plus the driver's losses |
| Screens | Data sheet, at normal brightness |
| LED wall | Supplier's figure per panel × number of panels |
| Fridge or coffee | Data sheet; note starting current |
| Machinery | Your engineer's figure, including phases |
Ordering the supply
- Find the electrical order form in the manual.
- Choose the supply size, and whether single or three phase.
- Show the position on a plan, usually with a mark from two stand edges.
- Order 24-hour supply separately where you need it.
- Order before the early-rate deadline.
In many venues the supply to your stand is an exclusive service. Your own contractor may be allowed to wire the stand from there, subject to testing and a certificate.
On the stand
- Hide distribution boards but leave them reachable.
- Keep sockets where they will actually be used: at counters and behind screens.
- Run cables in walls, under platforms or in covers.
- Plan where cables cross a floor, and avoid trip hazards.
- Do not daisy-chain extension leads.
Voltage and plugs
Voltage and plugs vary by country. Europe and much of the Gulf use about 230 V, while the US uses about 120 V for standard outlets, with different supply options for higher loads. Check equipment labels before sending it to another country, and ask the contractor what supply types they offer.
Frequently asked questions
01How much power does my stand need?
Add up each device's watts, then add a margin. The [power calculator](/tools/stand-power-calculator) does this for you.
02Can my stand builder connect the power?
Usually the venue's official contractor connects the supply. Your builder's qualified electrician may wire the stand.
03What is 24-hour power?
A supply that stays on overnight, normally ordered separately, for fridges and always-on equipment.
04Can I use a European device at a US show?
Only if it supports the US voltage and frequency, or if you have the right converter. Check before you ship.
Put it into practice
Exhibition stand technical drawings, drawn from the 3D design
A3 plan and elevations at scale, set-out grid, object schedule and a layered AutoCAD DXF, generated from the 3D design.
Guidance here reflects common practice. Venues, organisers and countries set their own rules: always check the exhibitor manual and work with a qualified stand builder and engineer for structures.
