Transition from ProFormer to Dionic lithium batteries and their suitability for film and HD camera work

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2004Batteries/Power forum

22 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

DisputedParticipants disagreed and reached no conclusion. Read the findings as positions, not as an answer.

Dionic lithium batteries provide significantly longer runtime than comparable nickel-cadmium batteries, with reports of approximately one hour on HD cameras compared to 30 minutes for heavier alternatives.
Dionic batteries are substantially lighter than older battery models, which can create balancing challenges when used on camera support rigs designed for heavier systems.
Lithium batteries designed for cinema use carry warnings against high current draw, raising questions about their reliability for starting high-speed film cameras like the Arri 435.
Some operators have successfully used lithium batteries for high-speed 435 filming and intensive location work without battery swaps throughout full working days.
Dionic batteries cost significantly more than ProFormer batteries, with pricing ranging from approximately $430 to $995 depending on capacity.
ProFormer batteries can be recelled by third-party service providers at relatively low cost, while manufacturer battery buyback programs offer credit toward new purchases.
Lithium battery technology faces potential aviation transport restrictions due to safety classifications, which could affect location shooting logistics.
Charge times for lithium batteries are substantially longer than for older battery chemistries.

Information from 2004; battery technology and regulations have likely evolved significantly since then.
Conflicting reports on whether lithium batteries can reliably power high-speed camera operation at 150 fps.
Limited long-term cycle-life data available for lithium batteries at the time of discussion.
Recelling costs and availability vary by region and service provider.
Individual camera units behave differently with the same battery models.
High current draw warnings on some lithium battery models contradict manufacturer claims about capability.