A V mount battery system is a high-capacity power solution commonly used in professional film and broadcast environments. Before getting into specifics, here’s a brief outline of the components required to build a reliable V-mount setup:
- V mount battery: The core of the power setup, featuring high capacity and multiple output ports
- Battery charger: A dedicated device to recharge V-mount battery safely and efficiently, single or multi slots available
- V mount battery plate: A V-Mount plate to secure the battery to your rig with multiple output ports
- Cables & adapters: Connect the V mount battery system to target photography gear for power supply
V mount battery: The core of V mount battery system, featuring high capacity and multiple output ports
The V-mount battery, initially developed by Sony, has become a popular and reliable power solution for everything from solo filmmakers to major Hollywood productions. As the name suggests, it attaches to a battery plate using a V-shaped locking mechanism, with the male end on the battery and the female end on the plate.
A V-mount battery is a rechargeable Li-ion pack with high capacity, typically ranging from 95Wh to 200Wh, and a standard output of 14.4 V (or 14.8 V). Many models feature several D-Tap and USB ports, and some even have built-in OLED/LED screens for real-time monitoring of voltage and remaining runtime. These batteries are used to power everything from cinema cameras to LED panels, all without needing an AC connection.
V-mount batteries offer numerous benefits over other battery types. They provide higher capacity, which means longer shooting times with fewer battery swaps. They are also highly compatible, making them ideal for professionals who use multiple camera models. Moreover, V-mount batteries come with several accessory ports, enabling direct power supply to additional devices such as lights or monitors.
Battery charger: A dedicated device to recharge V-mount battery safely and efficiently, single or multi slots available
A V-mount battery charger is a dedicated device used to recharge high-capacity V-mount batteries safely and efficiently. It plays a vital role in maintaining battery health, maximizing lifespan, and ensuring consistent performance in professional production settings.
The main function of the charger is to restore power to V-mount batteries, preparing them for reuse. Beyond simply supplying energy, these chargers are built to:
- Control Voltage and Current: They precisely manage electrical flow to protect lithium-ion cells from overcharging and to ensure proper cell balancing, which is critical for reliable operation.
- Enhance Safety with Protection Features: Modern models include integrated safety systems that guard against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. This helps prevent damage and prolong battery life.
- Maintain Safe Operating Temperatures: Effective heat regulation during charging, especially with high-speed options, is essential. Some chargers use built-in cooling or smart charging adjustments to keep temperatures in check.
- Offer Charge Status Updates: Many chargers are equipped with LED indicators or digital screens that provide immediate information about battery status. This is a valuable feature in time-sensitive filming environments.
V mount battery plate: A V-Mount plate to secure the battery to your rig with multiple output ports
A V-shaped battery plate is a mounting accessory designed to connect V-mount batteries to various types of gear, including cameras, film lights, and monitors. It uses a V-lock mechanism to securely fasten the battery, minimizing the risk of detachment due to movement or impact.
These plates often come equipped with multiple output ports, such as D-Tap, USB, and DC. This makes them versatile power hubs for a wide range of devices, from professional cameras and lighting equipment to monitors and smartphones. Many models also support different voltage outputs to match the requirements of various devices, providing stable and adaptable power delivery.
It offers several benefits:
Secure Attachment: The V-lock mechanism provides a firm connection between the battery and the plate, minimizing the risk of disconnection from vibrations or sudden movements. This ensures stable power delivery during use.
Versatile Power Output: Designed with multiple voltage options, the plate can accommodate the diverse power needs of different devices.
Improved Workflow Efficiency: Equipped with several output ports, the V-mount battery plate allows a single battery to power multiple devices at once. This streamlines operations and reduces the need for multiple power sources.
Take the Moman VBP as an example, it features multiple interfaces:
- D-tap Output
- 5V DC Output
- 8V DC Output
- 12V DC Output
- 15V DC Output
- 2 USB Ports
On-the-Fly Battery Swapping: Hot-swapping capability enables quick battery changes without interrupting filming, offering convenience during continuous shoots.
Cables & adapters: Connect the V mount battery system to target photography gear for power supply
You need cables or adapters to connect the V-mount battery system to your photography equipment to ensure a proper power supply.
D-tap cables: Standard D-Tap to D-Tap cables allow you to power multiple devices or connect to distribution plates. For gear like the Sony A7 series or Moza gimbals that require barrel connectors, use a D-Tap to barrel-plug adapter. To avoid accidental disconnections during handheld shooting, secure cables with clamps or spring clips.
USB & specialty cables: If your V-mount battery or mounting plate includes USB-A or USB-C ports, select compatible cables to power accessories like wireless transmitters, smartphones, or external monitors. Some plates even support multiple USB outputs for charging several devices at once.
Conclusion
By combining batteries, a charger, V-mount plates, and cables, you’ll have a fully equipped and adaptable V mount battery system ready to power cameras, lights, monitors, gimbals, and other gear for any type of shoot.
