Cam-lok cables and distribution, explained
A towable generator is only half the setup. The other half is the cable from the generator to where the power is used, and the boxes that split it into ordinary outlets.
Updated 2026-10-16
Cam-lok connectors
Larger generators have a panel of single-pole connectors called cam-loks, color-coded by conductor: on the West Coast typically black, red and blue for the three phases, white for neutral and green for ground. Each conductor is a separate cable, so a three-phase feed is five cables run side by side. They twist and lock, so they cannot be pulled out by accident.
Distribution: spider boxes and panels
- Spider box: a rugged box fed by cam-lok cables that splits the power into twist-lock and ordinary GFCI outlets. One per vendor row at an event, one per work area on a site.
- Distribution panel: a larger panel with breakers, for feeding several spider boxes or a building's temporary service.
- Transformer: steps 480 V down to 208/120 V when a large generator feeds ordinary outlets.
Who connects what
Plugging a spider box into the generator with a matching cable is something event crews do every weekend. Connecting the generator to a building's panel or a temporary service is a job for a licensed electrician, every time.
Pricing
Cable sets and boxes rent by the piece, from about $30 a day each. We list every piece in the quote, so the crew on site has what the layout needs. Send us a sketch — where the generator goes and where the power is needed — and we work out the list.
Questions
Does the generator come with cables?
The generator comes with its outlets and its cam-lok panel. Feeder cables, distribution boxes and transformers are rented with it, by the piece. We list them in the quote so nothing is missing on delivery day.
Can I use welding cable?
No. Temporary power cable is type SC or W, rated for the purpose. Welding cable is not, and an inspector will reject it.
How long can the cable run be?
Longer runs lose voltage. Up to about 100 feet the standard sets are fine; beyond that, tell us the distance and we size the cable up.
Want the size worked out for you?
Send the list of what has to run and the address. We text you back with the size, one all-in price and a delivery day.