FAQ
Have questions? We've probably heard it before. Browse the sections below - or reach out if you need personalized help from the Core team.
General Battery FAQ
1.How long do Core SWX batteries typically last?
Core SWX batteries are rated for 1000+ recharge cycles under proper care, providing reliable performance for years of professional use.
2. Can I travel with Core SWX batteries?
Yes, all Core SWX batteries under 160Wh are UN38.3 certified for air travel.
However, airline regulations limit how many you can bring based on capacity:
- Under 100Wh: You may carry on as many batteries as needed for personal use.
- Between 100Wh and 160Wh: You are typically allowed to carry up to two batteries per passenger.
It's always best to confirm specific rules with your airline prior to traveling, as policies may vary by carrier or destination.
3. What is the difference between V-mount and Gold mount?
V-mount and Gold mount refer to different battery mounting standards. Core SWX offers most battery models in both options to suit various camera systems and rigs.
4. How do I know if a Core battery is compatible with my gear?
Our batteries support industry-standard voltages and D-Tap, USB-C, and barrel outputs. For exact compatibility, check the power requirements of your equipment or contact us.
5. How should I store batteries when not in use?
Store batteries at around 40–50% charge in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme heat or cold to preserve lifespan.
6. What is PD Pro USB-C?
PD Pro is Core SWX’s advanced implementation of USB-C Power Delivery, featured on select battery packs like the Powerbase Edge Snap, Hypercore G3, and Helix Max Ultra. It supports a wide-range voltage output (5V to 20V), has no polarity concerns, and is SDI safe—meaning there are no ground loop issues when powering sensitive equipment like cameras or monitors. PD Pro is designed to deliver clean, stable, and high-power output (up to 100W) for professional-grade USB-C devices.
General Charger FAQ
1.Are Core SWX chargers compatible with other brands’ batteries?
Most Core chargers support standard charging protocols for V-mount and Gold mount batteries across brands, though we recommend Core batteries for best performance.
2. What’s the difference between simultaneous and sequential charging?
Simultaneous chargers power all battery bays at once, while sequential chargers charge one battery at a time in order.
3. Can I travel internationally with Core chargers?
Yes—all Core chargers support 100-240V AC input and include a standard IEC cable.
4. Do Core chargers stop charging once the battery is full?
Yes, they include automatic cutoff and charge monitoring for battery safety and longevity.
5. Are firmware updates needed for the chargers?
No firmware updates are required. They are plug-and-play.
VoltBridge FAQ
1.What is VoltBridge and how does it work?
VoltBridge is Core SWX’s battery monitoring system, designed to help you track battery status. It allows you to view real-time data like charge percentage, cycle count, and runtime either directly from a battery with VoltBridgeID or via VoltBridge Mesh through compatible chargers.
2. What is VoltBridgeID?
VoltBridgeID is built into select Core SWX battery packs and allows users to access stored battery diagnostics by scanning the battery with the VoltBridgeID iOS app.
3. What is VoltBridge Mesh?
VoltBridge Mesh is a Bluetooth-based wireless monitoring system available on select Core SWX chargers such as the Mach4 Micro. These chargers act as smart hubs, wirelessly collecting and displaying data from connected batteries on the charger to the VoltBridge Mesh app on iOS devices. It’s ideal for multi-bay charging stations, rental facilities, or studios managing larger fleets.
4. What’s the difference between VoltBridge ID and VoltBridge Mesh?
VoltBridgeID is a scan-based system where you use an iOS device to manually read battery data from individual packs—perfect for on-location checks.
5. Is there a cost to use VoltBridge, and where can I get the app?
TheVoltBridgeID and VoltBridge Mesh apps are free and available for download in the app store on iOS devices. There are no
subscription fees to use either VoltBridge ID or VoltBridge Mesh monitoringfeatures.
Battery End-of-Life Guidance
1.When is a battery considered “end-of-life”(EOL)?
A Core SWX battery is considered end-of-life when it no longer provides reliable
performance. You may notice:
- Significantly reduced runtime
- Inability to reach a full charge
- Inconsistent operation or shutdowns under load
- Physical signs of damage or swelling
All Core SWX packs are rated for 1000+ charge/discharge cycles, but actual lifespan may vary depending on usage patterns, environmental conditions, and charging practices.
2. What should I dowith an end-of-life battery?
Never throw a lithium-ion battery in the trash. It must be properly recycled to ensure safety and environmental responsibility.
You have two options:
A. Recycle through Call2Recycle
Core SWX is a proud partner of Call2Recycle, North America’s
premier battery recycling program. They ensure all lithium-ion batteries are collected and processed safely and in compliance with federal and environmental guidelines.
Find a drop-off site near you: https://www.call2recycle.org/locator
B. Return it to Core SWX
Eligible batteries can be returned through our Trade-In Program, where we offer credit toward a new unit. Batteries can be dropped off by appointment at our offices in New York or Los Angeles, or shipped to us directly. All returned packs are responsibly recycled through certified partners.
Start a trade-in: coreswx.com/tradein
We are committed to sustainability. Every returned pack is routed through a certified recycling stream to recover valuable materials and prevent environmental harm.
3. Why is proper recycling so important?
Lithium-ion batteries contain metals and chemicals that can cause fires or environmental damage if mishandled. By recycling through Core SWX or Call2Recycle:
• Usable materials (like cobalt, nickel, and lithium) can be recovered
• Waste is kept out of landfills and ecosystems
• Safety risks associated with improper disposal are eliminated
We take battery stewardship seriously—our partnership with Call2Recycle ensures every battery is responsibly recycled, down to the last cell.
4. Can I continue using a battery past its end-of-life?
You can, but we strongly advise against it. Degraded packs are unpredictable. If you rely on consistent, professional-grade performance, it’s not worth the risk.
5. Are there risks to using old or damaged batteries?
Yes. Risks include:
• Sudden voltage drops or shutdowns
• Overheating under load
• Swelling, leaking, or (in rare cases) venting
• Potential damage to connected equipment
Retire any battery that shows signs of damage or degraded performance
6. How can I extend the life of my Core SWX battery?
Follow these best practices:
• Avoid full discharge—recharging before 0% extends life
• Store at partial charge (40–60%) for long-term storage
• Use Core SWX-approved chargers
• Avoid extreme temps—ideal range is 50–85°F (10–30°C)
7. What’s the Core SWX evaluation process?
Not sure if your pack is EOL? Send it in for evaluation.
- An evaluation fee applies if the unit is performing within spec
- Fee is waived if you proceed with a repair or trade-in
- Shipping is the customer’s responsibility
Nano X Battery FAQ
1.What makes the Nano X different from other batteries?
Nano X packs are compact 98Wh and 150Wh batteries with a high-strength polycarbonate casing, EmLED™ display, wraparound LED gauge, and VoltBridge ID
2. Can I charge Nano X batteries via USB-C?
Yes, Nano X batteries feature a USB-C PD input that supports charging at up to 100W, allowing you to charge the battery directly via a compatible USB-C PD charger. The actual charging speed depends on the wattage output of your charger. The USB-C port also functions as a power output, so you can power or charge USB-C devices like monitors, smartphones, or accessories directly from the battery.
3. Are Nano X batteries compatible with all V-mount or G-mount 14V cameras?
Yes, they’re designed to work with all standard 14V V-mount or G-mount plates.
4. What accessories are available for Nano X?
Optional colored port tabs, mounting plates, and compact quad chargers are available to further customize and support your workflow.
5. Does the Nano X have any display features to help monitor power?
Yes! Nano X batteries feature a wraparound LED gauge that provides visibility from nearly any angle, as well as a front-facing EmLED™ display that shows remaining runtime in hours and minutes as well as percentage, making it easy to keep tabs on your power status mid-shoot.
XCell Battery FAQ
1.What are XCell batteries?
XCell is a budget-conscious, feature-rich V-mount battery line with 99Wh and 148Wh capacities, offering pro-level functionality at a competitive price.
2. What features set XCell apart?
They include a customizable OLED display, USB-C PD, P-Tap, barrel outputs, and Gorilla Glass protection—rare at this price point.
3. Can I add my company logo to the XCell display?
Yes! You can upload your logo to display on the runtime screen—great for branding and asset management.
4. Are XCell batteries compatible with all V-mount accessories and chargers?
Yes, XCell batteries follow standard V-mount specifications.
5. How do I monitor runtime on the XCell battery?
The XCell battery features a smart OLED display that shows remaining runtime and charge time in hours and minutes or percentage, and user-customizable branding so you can monitor power and identify packs at a glance.
Powerbase Edge Snap System FAQ
1.What is the Powerbase Edge Snap system?
It’s a compact, stackable magnetic battery system ideal for handheld and rig setups. The modular design offers hot-swap capabilities with optional expansion packs.
2.What outputs are available on the Powerbase Edge Snap system, and can I charge it via USB-C?
The Powerbase Edge Snap battery features two P-Tap outputs and two PD Pro USB-C ports, offering flexible power options for a wide range of gear. Both PD Pro ports support bidirectional USB-C PD, allowing you to power USB-C devices and also charge the battery itself with a USB-C PD charger. The PD Pro technology delivers safe, stable power with no polarity concerns and is SDI safe, making it ideal for sensitive camera and monitoring setups.
3. What Snap plates are available for the system?
Core SWX offers a range of Snap plates designed specifically for the Powerbase Edge Snap system, including models for popular cameras like RED KOMODO and Sony FX6, and Snap IT V-mount and G-mount plates - All of these options pass through the power for a cable-less setup. Additionally, there is a SNAP-QRC plate to mount anywhere there is a 1/4-20 thread, great for mirrorless cameras, and power the device with a PD Pro or P-tap cable.
4. What’s the difference between PBE-SNAP and PBE-SNAPX?
The PBE-SNAP is the 49Wh battery ideal for lightweight setups or quick swaps, and the PBE-SNAPX is a 98Wh battery for longer runtimes. Additionally, the SNAPX features a Snap Lock mechanism, which provides a secure locking interface for added stability when mounted
5. Is the system travel friendly?
Yes, each model is under 100Wh, making it airline carry-on approved and they are UN38.3 certified.
Helix Max Ultra Battery FAQ
1.What sets the Helix Max Ultra apart from other batteries?
The Helix Max Ultra is a native dual-voltage battery system, meaning it can operate as either a standard 14V battery or a 28V high-voltage solution. Unlike other high-voltage packs that require dedicated setups, Helix Max Ultra works seamlessly across both low-voltage and high-voltage devices, offering unmatched flexibility for high-draw cinema, broadcast, and lighting applications.
2. How does the Native Dual Voltage output work?
The battery operates at 14V on any standard mount plate, just like a typical 14V battery. When connected to a Helix mount plate, it automatically outputs 28V. Core SWX offers Helix plates specifically designed for high-voltage devices, and also OEMs Helix plates for the RED V-RAPTOR XL and Blackmagic Design URSA Cine, enabling full high-voltage functionality with no extra converters or setup needed.
3. What mount type sand capacities are available for the Helix Max Ultra?
Helix Max Ultra is Core SWX’s most expansive battery line, offering solutions for a wide range of professional setups. It’s available in three mount types (V-mount, Gold mount, and B-mount) to match your preferred camera or rig configuration. Each mount type is offered in four capacities: 99Wh, 158Wh, 297Wh, and 395Wh, giving you the flexibility to choose the ideal runtime and size for your production needs.
4. What outputs are available on the Helix Max Ultra batteries?
Helix Max Ultra batteries offer a robust set of outputs tailored to professional workflows. The 99Wh and 150Wh models feature two PD Pro USB-C ports and one P-Tap output, while the larger 275Wh and 365Wh models include two PD Pro USB-C ports and two P-Tap outputs. This gives you the flexibility to power cameras, monitors, lights, and USB-C devices—all from a single battery.
5. Is it compatible with all chargers?
Helix Max Ultra batteries are compatible with standard 14V chargers, but for faster charging, we recommend using the GT8 rapid quad charger, which is specifically designed for Helix Max batteries. Additionally, all Helix Max Ultra models can be charged via USB-C through the PD Pro USB-C ports, offering flexible charging options both on set and on the go.
Mach4 Charger FAQ
1.What is the Mach4 charger series?
The Mach4 Series is Core SWX’s line
of ultra-fast battery chargers, available in both dual- and quad-bay configurations, all featuring a 4A charge current per channel. The lineup also includes the Mach4 Micro, a compact digital charger with VoltBridge support, enabling remote fleet monitoring and charge status tracking via the VoltBridge platform.
2. How fast does it charge batteries?
The Mach4 charger delivers a 4A charge current per channel, allowing it to charge four 98Wh batteries in under 90 minutes. For higher-capacity packs like 150Wh, it typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to fully charge all four simultaneously—still significantly faster than most conventional chargers.
3. Is it safe to fast charge all batteries?
Yes, the Mach4 dynamically adjusts current to protect battery health while optimizing speed.
4. Is Mach4compatible with all Core batteries?
Yes, including Helix Max batteries, Nano X, XCell, and Hypercore packs. It also supports other brands that follow standard protocols.
Still have questions?
support@coreswx.com
516-595-7488