2008Batteries/Power forum
Installing a compact voltmeter into a battery base to monitor charge level of non-digital batteries in film equipment
18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- A small voltmeter can be integrated into a Master Series battery base by tapping into the secondary battery wiring and fitting it into existing slots in the metal framework beneath the plastic shell.
- The voltmeter approach provides an affordable and compact solution for monitoring battery charge without adding external devices to the sled.
- Cutting holes into battery covers requires careful work with proper safety precautions including masking and dust containment, as the material produces hazardous fibers.
- Voltmeters from Murata are available through electronics suppliers and offer a low-cost alternative to dedicated battery monitoring systems.
- The practical effectiveness of this modification depends on individual setup preferences and the specific equipment being used.
Depends on
- The modification was performed on one specific Master Series sled model and may not fit other equipment designs.
- Some participants mentioned superior specialized battery monitoring devices exist but noted they may be more difficult to view or integrate into a rig.
- The voltmeter approach lacks the detailed information output that dedicated power meters provide.
- Visibility of the meter display can be affected by lighting conditions and viewing angle depending on installation location.
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