Description
Mini battery back for StarliteHD
The Transvideo StarliteHD monitor series is a popular choice for its compact size, robust build, and advanced features, particularly in professional cinema environments. Given its small form factor, “mini battery backs” are specifically designed to provide portable power without adding significant bulk.
The StarliteHD monitors typically accept power via a LEMO 2-Pin (0B 2-pin) connector and have a wide operating voltage range, often from 6V to 30V DC (or even 5V-44V DC for some models), with a low power consumption of around 6W. Importantly, many StarliteHD models also feature a Sony NP-F (L-series) type battery socket directly on the back.
Therefore, the most common “mini battery back” solution for the StarliteHD is either a direct NP-F battery plate or a compact V-mount/Gold-mount battery solution with a D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO cable.
Here’s a breakdown of the “Mini battery back” options and their features:
1. Sony NP-F (L-Series) Battery Back (Most Common & Direct)
This is the most integrated and mini solution, as many StarliteHD monitors have a built-in NP-F battery plate.
Product Description: This type of “mini battery back” is essentially a dedicated battery plate or integrated socket designed to accept Sony NP-F series (L-series) batteries. These are common, relatively small, and lightweight lithium-ion batteries available in various capacities (e.g., NP-F550, NP-F770, NP-F970). They offer a very compact and cable-free power solution when snapped directly onto the monitor.
- Direct Attachment: Snaps directly onto the back of the StarliteHD monitor without external cables (if the monitor has the built-in socket).
- Compact & Lightweight: NP-F batteries are inherently small, making this a highly portable power solution that adds minimal bulk.
- Common & Accessible: NP-F batteries are widely available and used across many different camera accessories (monitors, LED lights, etc.).
- Variable Capacity: Available in different sizes (e.g., F550 for shortest run, F970 for longest run) to suit various power duration needs.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than professional cinema batteries and chargers.
- Voltage: Typically 7.2V to 7.4V, which falls within the StarliteHD’s wide input voltage range.
2. Mini V-Mount / Gold-Mount Battery Solution (More Versatile, but requires cable)
For users who want more run-time, additional power outputs, or to consolidate batteries on their rig, a mini V-mount or Gold-mount battery paired with a dedicated power cable is an excellent “mini” option.
Product Description: These are compact versions of standard cinema V-mount or Gold-mount batteries (typically 50Wh to 99Wh to be airline-friendly). They are paired with a D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO cable that connects the battery to the StarliteHD monitor. These batteries can be mounted to the rig via a mini V-mount/Gold-mount plate.
Key Features:
- Extended Runtime: Offers significantly longer run times compared to NP-F batteries, ideal for all-day shooting without frequent battery swaps.
- Multiple Power Outputs: Mini V-mount/Gold-mount batteries often include D-Tap, USB-A, USB-C (for charging devices or even charging the battery itself via PD), and sometimes barrel outputs, allowing you to power the monitor and other accessories simultaneously.
- Higher Voltage (Nominal 14.8V): Provides a higher and often more stable voltage, which the StarliteHD can readily accept, especially when powering multiple devices.
- Robust & Durable: Built with professional-grade components and often incorporate advanced safety features (overcharge, over-discharge, short-circuit protection).
- “Airline Friendly” Capacities: Many are designed to be under 100Wh, making them compliant with airline carry-on regulations.
- Versatile Mounting: Requires a mini V-mount or Gold-mount plate, which can be mounted onto various rig components (e.g., 15mm rods, cage) to optimize balance.
For the Transvideo StarliteHD, the best “mini battery back” solution depends on whether you prioritize absolute minimal footprint (NP-F direct mount) or extended runtime and accessory power (mini V-mount/Gold-mount with cable).