2004Batteries/Power forum
Battery selection and performance for Steadicam rigs powering film and video cameras
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.
What the thread found
- Proformer batteries at approximately 30Wh capacity are inexpensive and last about three years, but have limited capacity and lack built-in charge indicators
- Hytron 50 batteries show inconsistent performance with the Arri 435 camera, with roughly half of users reporting inability to maintain speed and half reporting no problems
- Hytron 120 batteries offer twice the amperage of older Propac 14 models with only half a pound additional weight, making them appealing for sustained power draw
- The Arri 435 draws extremely uneven power with deep current spikes when turning over, which stresses batteries differently than video cameras that draw steady current
- Lithium ion batteries have air travel restrictions due to explosion risk, while nickel metal hydride batteries are generally permitted on aircraft
- Pag lithium ion L-75 batteries perform well in cold conditions and provide remaining time readouts, though at higher cost than alternatives
- A combination of a larger battery in the back position and smaller battery in front position is typical for 24V jerry rigs, with the back battery carrying most of the load
- Nickel cadmium batteries are being phased out in favor of newer chemistry due to environmental toxicity concerns
- Sony V-lock nickel metal hydride batteries handle high current demands well but PAG lithium batteries may have reduced lifespan with large film cameras
Depends on
- Discussion occurred in 2004 when NiCd technology was being phased out
- Hytron 50 performance compatibility with Arri 435 remained unresolved with contradictory user reports
- Information about air travel battery restrictions was based on incomplete understanding and confusion between NiMH and lithium ion regulations
- Some users reported difficulty finding battery sizes that work well with Arri 435 while maintaining acceptable rig weight
- Sony lithium battery longevity claims for film camera use are anecdotal observations