Danger, Danger…HIGH VOLTAGE
09 Apr 2019

Danger, Danger…HIGH VOLTAGE


With high-end production cameras, like the Alexa LF, Venice, RED Ranger and (technically) the new Alexa Mini LF starting to favour 24v over 12v power, one of the biggest issues is, well…power.

Do you go with 12v to 24v up-conversion, or invest in a set of 24v batteries? Let’s look at the pros and cons of each:

  Up Conversion 24v Batteries
Pros
  • Can use existing 12v batteries
  • More efficient use of the battery
  • Little to no heat generation from down-converting to 12v
Cons
  • Less efficient, increases strain on the batteries
  • Excessive heat generation from conversion
  • Will seriously effect the lifespan of the batteries
  • Requires separate, proprietary, charging and mounting systems
  • Cannot be used with lower voltage equipment

Either way, it’s pretty clear that you’re best off investing in a new set of batteries. Whether it’s 24v packs, that you can’t use with any lower voltage kit you may have, or you’re replacing your 12v batteries every year instead of every 2/3 years.

Let’s be honest…Neither of these options are particularly attractive! They’re either costly, inefficient, exclusive or a mix of all three…ineffcostive?

But, there must be a better way!?
Lucky for you, there is…

Core SWX have just announced their brand new, Helix, range of batteries. Featuring the same sizes and capacities as the current range, from 98Wh all the way up to 293Wh; they may look the same, but there’s something very clever going on with them.

If you take a look, there’s a couple of extra pins on the battery contacts. Put a Helix on any standard, 12v camera (VariCam, URSA Mini Pro, most REDs, etc) and it will output 12v. But if you put one on a high voltage camera, with their Dual-Voltage mounting plate, those extra pins are engaged by the mount, triggering the battery to output 24v to the camera.

With built-in regulation for ARRI cameras to prioritise DC input power, the ability to deliver both 12v AND 24v power to the camera and external accessories, and a 2-year/2000-cycle warranty, the Helix range will make a great addition to your shooting kit or for streamlining your battery fleet.

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