Powering an ARRI 435 camera with battery systems designed for lower voltage

Gear

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2006Batteries/Power forum

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

The ARRI 435 requires approximately 17 amps at 28 volts for a 14-millisecond startup at 24 fps, with even higher current demands for higher frame rates.
Using two NiMH batteries together to create a 24-volt supply may not provide sufficient current capacity for the ARRI 435, as NiMH chemistry has current delivery limitations.
Combining a NiCad battery with an NiMH battery can provide more reliable power for the ARRI 435 than combining two NiMH batteries of the same type.
Operating at 50 fps with a 12-to-24-volt converter powered by AB Hytron batteries is feasible if all batteries, cables, and connectors are in good condition, though testing before a shoot is recommended.
Voltage converters designed to step up from 12 to 24 volts can struggle during camera startup due to high amperage surges, even if rated for continuous high-amp loads.
The amperage requirement doubles through the source battery when using a voltage converter, so a 15-amp surge at the camera requires approximately 30 amps from the 12-volt battery.
Converting a 12-volt rig to native 24 or 28 volts is preferable for modern film cameras, with a separate step-down converter available for older equipment and video work.
The ARRI 435 can be configured on some models to ramp up to speed more slowly, which reduces amperage spikes during startup.

This discussion focuses specifically on the ARRI 435 and may not apply equally to other camera models.
Battery performance is affected by age, condition, temperature, and specific rig configuration.
The technical specifications mentioned are based on reports from battery manufacturer representatives but were not independently verified in all scenarios discussed.
Recommendations vary based on individual rig design and component compatibility.
One participant achieved 90 fps with a mixed battery combination but noted that different sled designs react differently to the same battery setup.