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Verify that all items listed in the package are present upon receiving the product.
Guide to choosing the appropriate dummy battery charging cable based on camera model compatibility.
Instructions on how to attach the 3168 Battery Adapter Plate to your camera rig or cage.
Steps for mounting NP-F batteries and connecting power supply cables to the adapter plate.
Guide on activating the power supply function for shooting and powering off to conserve battery.
Explains how to charge the NP-F battery and use it to power other electronic devices via USB-C.
The SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Plate Professional Edition 3168 is a versatile power solution designed to extend the operational time of various camera setups and electronic devices. This adapter plate allows users to mount NP-F type batteries, such as NP-F550, NP-F750, and NP-F970, to provide power to cameras, monitors, wireless transmitters, microphones, and other accessories. Its professional edition designation suggests enhanced features and robust construction suitable for demanding production environments.
The primary function of the SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Plate 3168 is to act as an intermediary power source, converting the power from an NP-F battery into usable outputs for connected devices. It features multiple output ports to accommodate a wide range of equipment. Users can power their cameras directly via a USB-C port, provided the camera supports this method. For cameras that do not support direct USB-C power, the adapter plate offers DC5521 ports (7.4V) and a DC5525 port (12V), which can be used with various dummy battery charging cables. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a broad spectrum of camera models from different manufacturers, including Sony Alpha series, Canon EOS series, Nikon DSLRs, Lumix cameras, and Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Cameras.
Beyond powering camera equipment, the adapter plate also serves as a charging hub. It can charge the mounted NP-F battery itself when connected to an external adapter or a mobile power bank via its USB-C port. This dual functionality means the plate can be used to replenish battery power when not in active use, or even while simultaneously powering other devices, depending on the power source and load. Furthermore, the NP-F battery mounted on the plate can be utilized to charge other electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, video game consoles, microphones, video lights, and shavers through its USB-C port. This transforms the adapter plate into a portable power bank, adding significant utility for creators on the go who need to keep multiple devices powered.
The adapter plate is designed for easy integration into existing camera rigs. It can be securely fastened using one or two 1/4"-20 screws. This allows for flexible mounting options, whether on the top or side of a camera cage, on a handle, a dual rod clamp, or any other location with a compatible threaded hole. This adaptability ensures that the power solution can be positioned optimally within a rig without obstructing other components or adding unnecessary bulk.
To activate the power supply function of the SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Plate 3168, users need to press and hold a dedicated switch for approximately three seconds. This safety mechanism prevents accidental power activation and helps conserve battery life. Once activated, a battery indicator light illuminates, signaling that the plate is operational and that each port is providing current output. This intuitive feedback system allows users to quickly confirm the status of their power supply before commencing a shoot.
The selection of the appropriate power supply cable is a crucial aspect of using the adapter plate. If a camera supports direct USB-C power, the included USB-C to USB-C charging cable can be used. Otherwise, users must choose a suitable dummy battery charging cable based on their camera model. The manual provides a list of compatible SmallRig dummy battery cables, such as the DC5521 to NP-FW50 (for Sony Alpha series), DC5521 to NP-FZ100 (for Sony Alpha 9/7R/7 series), DC5521 to LP-E6 (for Canon EOS series), Dummy Battery EN-EL15 (for Nikon DSLRs), Dummy Battery DMW-BLF19 (for Lumix GH series), Dummy Battery NP-W235 (for FUJIFILM X-T4), and DC5525 to 2-Pin (for BMPCC 4K/6K/6K Pro). This comprehensive compatibility ensures that a wide range of professional and enthusiast cameras can benefit from the extended power provided by NP-F batteries.
The ability to mount NP-F batteries of various capacities (NP-F550, NP-F750, NP-F970) offers users flexibility in choosing the right balance between size, weight, and runtime for their specific needs. Larger capacity batteries will naturally provide longer operational times, which is essential for extended shoots or when powering multiple high-draw devices.
While the manual does not explicitly detail "maintenance features" in the traditional sense (like cleaning instructions or part replacement), it does outline important operational guidelines that contribute to the longevity and proper functioning of the device, which can be considered aspects of user-level maintenance.
One critical operational guideline is the need to press and hold the switch to enable the power supply function. If this step is overlooked, the adapter plate will remain in a non-working state, with no current output. This mechanism acts as a safeguard, preventing unintended power drain or potential issues from connected devices if the plate is not properly activated.
Another important point highlighted is that the power supply function of the Battery Adapter Plate needs to be re-enabled after each battery change. This ensures that the system resets and properly recognizes the new battery, preventing any power delivery issues that might arise from hot-swapping or incorrect battery detection. This also serves as a safety measure, requiring conscious activation after a power source change.
To conserve battery power, users are instructed to press and hold the switch for three seconds again when they finish shooting to disable the power supply function. This action stops the current output, preventing unnecessary discharge of the NP-F battery when devices are no longer in use. This feature is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of the NP-F batteries and ensuring they are ready for the next use.
The robust construction implied by the "Professional Edition" suggests a design that can withstand the rigors of professional use, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or repairs. The use of standard 1/4"-20 screws for mounting also means that replacement screws are readily available, should they be lost or damaged. The inclusion of an Allen wrench in the package further supports user-level adjustments and secure mounting without requiring specialized tools.
In summary, the SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Plate Professional Edition 3168 is a highly adaptable and essential accessory for filmmakers and photographers seeking extended power solutions for their camera rigs and electronic devices. Its comprehensive compatibility, multi-functional output and charging capabilities, and user-friendly operational features make it a valuable tool for managing power on set or in the field.
General| Product Type | Camera Cage |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Color | Black |
| Mounting Points | Multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 |
| Mounting Thread | 1/4"-20 |
| Package Contents | 1 x Cage |
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