2007Center Post forum
Wire gauge and voltage drop considerations for center post camera power cables
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- Wire gauge affects safe amperage capacity: 22 AWG is rated for 7 amps in open air but only 4.6 amps when bundled with other wires, while 20 AWG carries 11 amps in open air or 6.6 amps bundled, and 14 AWG carries 32 amps in open air or 19.2 amps bundled.
- Voltage drop in a post cable depends on both wire gauge and total cable run length, including the round trip from battery through post cable and camera power cable.
- High-amperage cameras like the F900, Viper, Genesis, and F23 drawing 9+ amps require larger wire gauges to safely deliver power without excessive voltage drop.
- Different center post designs have different voltage drop characteristics depending on cable length and wire gauge used, affecting when cameras will shut down as battery voltage decreases.
- The MK-V four stage extendable post with 22 AWG wiring experiences approximately 11.5 percent voltage drop, causing shutdown when battery shows 12.4 volts, earlier than competing systems.
- Custom coiled post cables are available through cable suppliers with specifications including conductor count, wire gauge, coax type, and coil dimensions.
Depends on
- Analysis uses maximum rated amperage for voltage drop calculations, which may not reflect actual usage patterns.
- The technical debate about wire sizing included claims that some posts were deleted from discussion, leaving certain manufacturer responses unverified.
- Specific power requirements vary by camera model and power configuration, and calculations presented are for specific scenarios.
- Compatibility between post cable options and specific post models requires verification before modification.