Light Tape presents “The StepGuard™ Climax” step lighting system for immersive theater environments
At the 2025 ICTA (International Cinema Technology Association) Seminar Series in Los Angeles, Steve Pendlebury—President and CEO of Electro-LuminX Lighting Corporation—shared recent innovations from Light Tape, including a new step lighting solution designed specifically for cinema environments. The product, called The StepGuard™ Climax, combines the strengths of two existing Light Tape systems into one unified design aimed at improving safety, energy efficiency, and visual experience for moviegoers.
The full presentation is available to watch below. Key highlights are summarized in this post.
Light Tape: A Different Kind of Light Source
Unlike traditional LEDs, Light Tape is a flexible, electroluminescent light source that emits uniform illumination across its entire surface. It’s lightweight, extremely low-profile, and engineered for efficiency—using significantly less energy than standard LED options.
Originally developed as an alternative to bulky, glare-prone lighting solutions, Light Tape is manufactured entirely in-house in the U.S., with applications spanning aerospace, architecture, branding, and government contracts—including lighting systems used by Boeing, Airbus, and the U.S. Air Force.
Lighting for Cinemas: The Challenge and the Approach
Step lighting in theaters plays a key role in safety and navigation, but it must also avoid disrupting the immersive experience of the film itself. Steve outlined how Light Tape’s low-glare, tightly controlled light output provides a solution that balances visibility with discretion—illuminating steps without casting unwanted light onto the screen or audience.
Over the years, Light Tape has developed several lighting profiles for cinema steps, working with companies like IMAX Canada to create solutions that meet strict aesthetic and technical standards.
Introducing “The Climax”: A Hybrid Lighting System
The main focus of the ICTA talk was The Climax, Light Tape’s new step lighting profile that combines features from two previous models:
- Classic Series: A dual-light solution with illumination on both the step tread and riser.
- StepGuard Max: A low-profile, no-top-light option developed for IMAX to prioritize full immersion.
The Climax combines both: a concealed top light and a focused bottom light that illuminates the full step face without visual distraction.
Design Features:
- Dual illumination on both tread and riser surfaces
- Shrouded light output to prevent glare or screen wash
- Mechanically mounted—all parts are screwed (not glued) for long-term stability and ease of installation
- Accessible design—removable rubber inserts cover mounting points while remaining serviceable
- Compatible with retrofits—the mounting position accommodates existing stair structures
- Designed for U.S. cinema requirements, with other formats available for international applications
Forward-Looking Design for Immersive Spaces
With The StepGuard™ Climax, Light Tape aims to provide a durable, easy-to-install lighting solution tailored to the evolving needs of cinema operators. It’s a response to the increasing focus on immersion, safety, and technical performance in modern theater design.
The product is now available and is expected to become a standard option for new builds and retrofit projects across the U.S. market.
Watch the Full ICTA Presentation:
For additional technical specifications or project inquiries, reach out to the Light Tape team.
