How to Power: BMD URSA Cine 12K/17K and Pyxis Cameras
Blackmagic Design had an impressive 2024, launching the new URSA Cine and Pyxis cameras. With all the cameras now arriving to clients, the buzz is only beginning. And whenever new cameras are announced, one key question always comes up: how do you power them? Don’t worry—Core has the answers.
Let’s start with the URSA Cine cameras, delivering cutting-edge imaging with high-resolution options and frame rates . Among the new releases, the URSA Cine 12K (EF Mount) stands out for its flexibility and incredible price point. This model ships body-only with a Canon EF mount and no pre-attached battery plate, giving users the freedom to choose their preferred power solution. We’ve partnered with Blackmagic Design to OEM the V-Mount (#CINEURSAC/BATTV), G-Mount (#CINEURSAC/BATTG), and B-mount (#CINEURSAC/BATTB) plate options that are 100% Helix compatible. Whichever you choose, our Helix Max batteries deliver the high voltage needed to achieve frame rates above 60fps while also powering accessories via the RS and EXT outputs. Using a low-voltage battery? You won’t be able to unlock those higher frame rates or accessory outputs.
Meanwhile, the URSA Cine 12K LF (PL Mount) and URSA Cine 17K come as standard packages with B-Mount battery plates already attached — making Helix Max B-Mount batteries the perfect out-of-the-box solution. If you prefer to switch to V-mount or G-mount, the mount plates mentioned above are available for you to swap out with the B-mount plate.
Our Helix Max batteries available in 98wh, 147wh, 275wh, and 367wh capacities are the go to high voltage pack in the industry because they are Native Dual Voltage, meaning you can use them for your 28v high voltage devices as well as your 14v low voltage devices. Being able to operate in Native Dual Voltage makes the batteries in your kit incredibly versatile to power any device and charge on existing 14v chargers. Made with the best cells in the biz to handle higher power requirements, Helix Max is the perfect match for the Ursa Cine cameras.
Keep in mind, these cameras are pretty power hungry, pulling up to 185w. Now that’s just the camera alone, so remember, you will likely have accessories that also need power and would want to keep that in mind when choosing the capacity of your Helix Max packs.
If you fly a lot for gigs, you may want to go with 98wh packs, two 150wh’s and our Helix sharkfin (available in B-mount, V-mount, and G-mount). When traveling, you are able to carry-on as many 98s as you need, and up to two 150s, but it’s always best to check with your airline prior to flying. Then with the sharkfin, you can double up on capacity while operating the camera, allowing for longer runtimes.
If you need a larger capacity and don’t need to fly, then it is time to turn to the larger capacity batteries in our 275wh and 360wh packs. These can handle anything you throw at them, whether you need it for very long runtimes or to power a bunch of accessories during a narrative job.
Any way to look at it, Helix Max batteries for the URSA Cine 12k and 17K are the perfect solution for providing high voltage to your camera while also being able to power your 14v gear on set.
Next up is the Pyxis camera which is a new box style camera from Blackmagic under $3K. This checks a lot of boxes for BMD fans and at a remarkable value.
Accepting a Sony BP-U style battery, this is the perfect situation for our Nano U98X packs. Nano U98X batteries are 98wh BP-U style packs with a built in P-tap and USB-C PD port allowing you to power accessories on your rig without the use of a V of G-mount plate and batteries.
These packs can also be charged three different ways! With a BP-U charger, a P-tap charger, and a USB-C charger. As long as you have one of those packed away for an emergency, you will never run out of power.
If you’re looking for even more power options for the Pyxis, our Powerbase Edge Snap has you covered. With its standard 2-pin Lemo-type power input, you can easily use our PDP-2PL cable. Mount the Snap anywhere on your rig—whether using one or multiple packs—run the PD Pro cable, and your camera is ready to go.
With the Snap, you gain multiple PD Pro and P-tap outputs, letting you power all your accessories seamlessly. By utilizing more than one Snap, you can keep your entire setup running all day without needing to power down your camera or accessories. This not only saves you time but also gives you peace of mind, allowing you to stay focused on the work at hand.
Charging the Powerbase Edge Snap is just as simple. Stack up to eight Snaps, connect a single USB-C charger to charge them all – no extra cables or chargers needed.
Finally, if your rig or cage already has a V-mount or G-mount battery plate, our Nano X packs are an ideal choice. Available in 98Wh and 150Wh capacities, they’re ready to roll. These batteries are packed with innovation, featuring an EmLED display, USB-C compatibility, rugged Nexcore casing, and much more.
If you are thinking about purchasing the new Blackmagic Design cameras, the obvious choice for power is Core SWX. Experience peace of mind in every situation with Core’s power solutions. Stay Core Driven!
