What is a V Mount battery cable and how do you choose?

The V Mount battery cable is an essential accessory in professional video production. It connects a V Mount battery to cameras, lights, monitors, or other gear, providing stable and portable power on set. In this article, we will explain what it is, how to choose the right one, and recommend some reliable options at Moman.

What is a V Mount battery cable?

A V Mount battery cable is a specialized power wire used to connect a V Mount battery to cameras, lights, monitors, or other gear. It transfers power from the battery to the device, enabling reliable and portable operation in video production.

Unlike V Mount battery chargers, it contains no internal circuitry. This cable simply delivers electricity from the battery to your equipment without converting or managing power. One end typically features a D-Tap or similar output connector, while the other connects to your device through a DC plug, USB-C, or dummy battery.

This power cable is a vital part of any V Mount battery system. Using the wrong wire can cause unstable power delivery, damage your equipment, or interrupt your shoot. Next, we’ll explore how to choose the right one for your needs.

Four tips for choosing a V Lock battery cable

When choosing a V Mount battery cable, it is important to consider the connector type, voltage compatibility, cable length, and overall build quality. Here are four tips to help you choose the right one.

Identify different connectors on the V Mount battery cable to match your gear

When selecting a V Mount cable, always verify that both connector ends are compatible with your battery and your device to avoid damage or unstable performance. Below are the most common connector options used on V-mount cable:

D-Tap: Also known as P-Tap, the D-Tap connector is the most common output used on V Mount battery wires. It is typically connected to the battery. With a rugged design and locking fit, it is a professional standard in film and broadcast work.

DC Barrel Plug: A DC barrel connector on a V Mount battery cable typically comes in 2.1mm or 2.5mm sizes. It delivers specific voltage outputs such as 7.4V, 12V, or 15V, making it suitable for powering on-camera lights, monitors, and field recorders. This connector ensures efficient and accurate power delivery tailored to your device’s needs.

Dummy battery: This specialized V Mount power cable connector fits into the battery slot of your DSLR or mirrorless camera. It’s commonly used with cameras from brands like Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Panasonic. Be sure to choose one compatible with your specific camera model, such as NP-FZ100, LP-E6, or FW50.

USB-C / Type-C: Modern V Mount battery cables include a USB-C connector to power compatible devices like cameras, gimbals, or smartphones. With support for USB Power Delivery (PD), it can offer fast, regulated power output for modern gear on set.

XLR (4-pin): The 4-pin XLR connector is used in V Mount cables designed for high-power professional devices such as broadcast cameras and audio mixers. It provides a stable, lockable connection that is less prone to accidental disconnection.

Weipu 2-pin: The Weipu 2-pin is a circular, threaded connector commonly used on V Mount battery cables to power outdoor lights and industrial video equipment. Its secure locking design and weather-resistant construction provide reliable connections in harsh environments with dust, moisture, or vibration.

Check the voltage of the V Mount power cable to ensure safety

You should select a V Mount battery cable with the correct voltage output to ensure stable power delivery and extend the lifespan of your gear.

Each cable is designed to deliver a specific voltage, typically 7.4V, 12V, or 15V, to match the power needs of devices such as cameras, monitors, and lights. If the voltage is too high, it may cause overheating or permanent damage. If it is too low, the device might fail to start or shut down unexpectedly.

To avoid these risks, carefully review the cable’s voltage specifications and compare them with your device’s input requirements. While some options like the Moman DDB-NPF include built-in protection features, it’s best not to rely on them alone.

Make sure your V Mount battery cord has enough length

Choosing a V Mount battery wire with the proper length helps you avoid connection issues and ensures flexible mobility during your shoot. A cable that is too short may limit your mounting options or create tension that damages the connectors. On the other hand, an overly long cable can cause a voltage drop, reduce power efficiency, and create unnecessary clutter on the set.

To choose the right length, first measure the distance between the battery mount and the device, factoring in how the cable will be routed. Make sure the cable is long enough to allow flexible positioning, but not so long that it adds resistance or becomes difficult to manage. For most setups, a length between 30cm and 100cm is sufficient. If you need to power devices mounted far from the battery, consider using a thicker cable to reduce power loss.

Look for durable construction on the V-mount accessory

A reliable V Mount battery cable should be built to withstand frequent bending, pulling, and long hours of use on set. Strong construction not only extends the cable’s lifespan but also ensures a consistent, safe power connection.

When choosing a V-mount power cable, check for high-quality materials like thick rubber or braided shielding for the outer layer, and gold-plated or locking connectors for a secure fit. Strain relief near both ends can also help prevent breakage from repeated bending. If you often shoot outdoors or in mobile setups, prioritize cables with weather-resistant features.

Table: Best V Mount battery cable at Moman

Now you should know which V Mount battery cable fits your setup. Here are our top picks to connect V Lock batteries to cameras, LED lights, monitors, and other devices.