Sodium Ion (Core Kodiak) vs. Sodium Nickel Chloride (Competitor)

 

We just returned from a tradeshow after releasing our MoXIE system and the new Sodium Ion Kodiak pack. It became evident that there’s significant confusion between our Kodiak Sodium Ion battery and the sodium nickel chloride pack offered by others. To clarify, while we could have developed a sodium nickel chloride battery years ago, we chose to deliver the latest technology to our clients without relying on confusing marketing tactics.
At Core SWX, we have a passion for power and are committed to bringing the latest technology and innovation to the cinema and professional video market. Let’s break down the differences between these two battery types and explain why our Sodium Ion pack stands out.

 

The Straight Facts – Similarities Between Sodium Ion (Na-ion) and Sodium Nickel Chloride (Na-NiCl2) Batteries:

 

• Sodium-Based Chemistry: Both use sodium as the primary element for their electrochemical reactions, making them alternatives to lithium-based batteries.
• Environmental Impact: Both types of batteries are considered more environmentally friendly compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries due to the abundance and non-toxic nature of sodium.
• Safety: Both battery types are generally safer and have lower risks of thermal runaway compared to lithium-ion batteries.
• Cycle Life: Both offer a long cycle life, making them suitable for applications that require durable and reliable power sources.
• Cost Advantage: Both benefit from the lower cost of sodium compared to lithium, potentially reducing the overall cost of the batteries.
• Industrial and Stationary Applications: Both have potential applications in industrial and stationary energy storage due to their robustness and long cycle life.

 

Differences between the two chemistries.

 

Summary for Cinema Applications

 

• Core’s Kodiak: Ready-to-use in extreme temperatures(-40 to 140F), cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Ideal for filmmakers needing flexible, reliable power.
• Competitor’s Sodium Nickel Chloride: Robust with high energy density but requires significant thermal management, making it bulky and more costly.

 

Conclusion

Both technologies offer unique benefits, but the newer Sodium Ion technology stands out for its immediate usability across a wide temperature range, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.

 

Fact Check

We operate on complete transparency but should you have any doubts or questions, feel free to reach out to us, or you can ask our competitor 😉

Blackmagic had an impressive year, launching three exciting new cameras. With the Pyxis camera now arriving to clients, the buzz is only beginning. Whenever new cameras are announced, a top question always arises: how to power them? Don’t worry—Core has the answers.

Let’s start with the Ursa Cine 12K LF and Ursa Cine 17K. Both cameras offer a range of high-resolution options and frame rates at an unbeatable value. Standard packages ship with a B-mount, making our Helix Max B-mount batteries the perfect fit to power these cameras right out of the box. This provides the high voltage these cameras require, with capacity options of 98Wh, 150Wh, 275Wh, and 360Wh to suit any situation.



But what if you’re a production company that uses V or G mount packs and don’t want to switch to B-mount? No worries at all. We’ve partnered with Blackmagic Design to offer OEM V-Mount (#CINEURSAC/BATTV) and G-Mount (#CINEURSAC/BATTG) plate options that are 100% Helix compatible. That’s right, you can use HelixMax with the Ursa Cine cameras by simply purchasing the optional plates.

Not only are they compatible with our Helix Max line of batteries, but the plates will also work with your current 14v batteries. This allows you the flexibility to upgrade to Helix Max for high voltage when you are ready to do so. If you already own Helix Max, just make sure the right mount is in your cart, and you are good to go!

Our Helix Max packs 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.

The two 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. 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 new 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 an incredible price point.

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!

 
If you couldn’t join us this year, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. NAB 2024 showcased groundbreaking advancements in cinematic production with the launch of four revolutionary products that are set to redefine industry standards.
 
1. Hypercore G3: Next-Generation Power Solution
The Hypercore G3 represents the evolution of the Hypercore line, boasting advanced power capabilities with a 20A load output and unparalleled durability. With a durable polycarbonate shell and a wraparound RGB LED gauge, the Hypercore G3 offers enhanced user convenience and reliability. Its revolutionary PD Pro AUX connections and cross-compatibility with USBC-PD ensure versatility and seamless integration with professional camera systems.

2. Powerbase Edge Snap: Revolutionizing Power Solutions
The award winning Powerbase Edge Snap, redefines cinematic production standards with its revolutionary magnetic mount design. With unique snap-together stacking features and hot-swapping capabilities, the Powerbase Edge Snap streamlines power management on set. Supporting concurrent powering of up to four accessories, this innovative power solution ensures consistent power delivery and convenient charging. With PD Pro ports facilitating USBC-PD charging and travel friendly form factor, the Powerbase Edge Snap is set to change the way you power your productions, and we are so proud to announce that this product won CineD’s Best of Show 2024!


 


3. Nano X: Redefining Portability and Power
The Nano X stole the spotlight with its compact form factor and unparalleled performance. Featuring a built-in EmLED screen and compact travel-friendly design. The Nano X packs a punch with 98Wh to 150Wh options available. Crafted with precision, this portable powerhouse ensures formidable performance in a petite package. With features like an integrated up to 100w USBC-PD, P-tap port, SMBUS camera communication, and VoltBridge ID, the Nano X is set to become the benchmark for portable power solutions.



4. PD Pro Connector Types: Versatile Connectivity Solutions
NAB 2024 also introduced the revolutionary PD Pro™ Connection representing a significant advancement in on-set auxiliary power distribution, offering a versatile and reliable connectivity solution for a wide range of applications. The PD Pro Connection is poised to transform the way filmmakers approach power management during productions.



This year we also announced our exciting new partnership with Nanlite introducing top-notch power solutions for their lighting products with our impressive new Apex 275 battery pack!



NAB 2024 was a testament to innovation and creativity in cinematic power solutions. With the launch of these game-changing products, we’re excited to see how they will shape the future of filmmaking and empower creators worldwide. If you missed out on NAB 2024, stay tuned for more updates and innovations in the world of cinematic production. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a brighter, more creative future and check out our NAB raffle winners and final recap below!


 

 
Also a special shout out to all of our friends who shared their booth space with us during the show!
 
AbelCine, ARRI, Atomos, Blackmagic Design, Cartoni, Creamsource, CueScript, Fujifilm/Fujinon, Hitachi, Kelvin, Motion Impossible, RDH, Sony, Waterbird, and Wave Central.
 
Until Next Year: Stay Core Driven!

In 2021, the film industry was introduced to Core’s Maverick battery. This 605wh block battery was the first of its kind created by Core and has made its way on all types of sets. We recently added the Renegade line of block batteries to give customers even more options to power their devices. With their reliability, faster charging, and multiple outputs for power, choosing Core block batteries is an easy decision when powering your set.
 
We hear stories all the time about how The Maverick lasted all day on a show or commercial, saved a shoot with its multiple outputs, and how the internal charger is brilliant with just an IEC needed to charge. We spoke to Sam Hall who utilized a fleet of Mavericks last winter in the elements and how it handled the extreme conditions of the various film locations.
 
Sam Hall is a 1st (who came up as a 2nd AC and still occasionally 2nd’s) in the Western side of the states and is based in Denver Colorado. After working in Los Angeles for nearly 8 years, Sam continues to work all over the Western US and also specializes in cold weather conditions. He recently had Mavericks from the rental house Cinemashot out in Denver on a National Car Commercial. Four cameras were on the shoot, including one Sony Venice on an arm car and one on sticks. The other two insert cameras were Sony mirrorless cameras. The production locations were all off-road, on rugged mountain roads up at 10,000-14,000 ft in elevation.
 

All locations were exteriors on site in the middle of the Colorado Rockies – somewhere in between Buena Vista and Telluride, CO in mid February 2023 – in snowy conditions varying from -17 degrees fahrenheit to about +20 degrees fahrenheit. After filming in the elements all day, the crew only had a garage to park the Arm Car and Camera Truck . With temps dropping close to -17 to -18 each night, the gear stayed around 50-60 degrees. So still not warm – yet warm enough to charge and keep all the Core Mavericks and HyperCore SWX 150’s charged. Many batteries stayed off charge and still had 90-95% while sitting inside the Arm Car and the camera truck.
 
When asked how the Maverick performed, Sam answered, “The Absolute best – in my 10 + years in the business, I have never had a battery last near 6 hours on the arm car while powering the spray off, camera and accessories. Most block batteries only safely last 1 hour to 1 1⁄2 hours. Common Practice is to check block batteries in the arm car within the first hour, and again after about 1-2 hours (depending on how good the cells are in the block battery). Pushing three hours is dangerous!”
 

The Core Mavericks powered the rig for 4-6 hours in freezing and sub freezing temperatures – the crew was running two at a time on the arm car before swapping. Even in the cold snow and elements, they could have lasted the whole day without any issues.
 
“To my surprise, when I took the blocks off the arm car, one battery read 71% and the other read 56%. We all thought it was an odd coincidence….but it kept happening. We had discovered how good these batteries really were! We swapped batteries two times per day on the arm car (four in total for powering multiple accessories ) and never did the batteries drop below 45-50%.” The B-Unit (Studio/Stick and Handheld team) only went through one block battery per day.
 
Sam said that he and the A-Cam 1st laughed it off and didn’t believe them at first! “We had twelve of the Core Maverick blocks for two Sony Venice cameras. Our 1st AC’s are used to other block batteries dying in the cold and always needing extra blocks. We only ever had 3-5 out each day. And used the same ones the next day – as they charged all the way up overnight. So we had at least six blocks that just sat in the cases on the camera truck….” – Sam Hall
 
When asked about the other features the Mavericks brought to the table, Sam said, “Their longevity of cell life in cold weather. Also having USB and D-Tap ports for powering other items was a huge help 100% a must on any car shoot – you have options to power almost any accessory (or charge your phone)!. And 100% AN ABSOLUTE NEED on cold weather jobs. I won’t be accepting any other block batteries ever again! I was impressed and became a strong believer in these blocks.
 
Core Blocks will be my go to from now on! Core is on top of their game with strong power solutions for the cinema market. All their block batteries flawlessly fit into dolly boxes, in trays and are built for current specs across the market. Plus having the charger internal to the battery makes charging very easy and versatile.”
 
This is just one of the many stories we hear about the Maverick.
 
Thank you for your time Sam.
 

 
Please go check out his Cold weather tips on his blog and check out his instagram.
 
Stay Core Driven!

 

Are you tired of being held back by old and unreliable batteries during film or video production? Upgrade to high-quality battery packs and chargers with our Trade In and Save program.

 

Designed specifically for the demanding needs of cinema and video production, our batteries are built to last and provide consistent power when you need it most. And the best part? You can save money and help the environment by trading in your old V/G/B mount battery packs or chargers, regardless of whether they were made by us or another manufacturer.

 

There are no exclusions on the models to save on. For battery packs, you can save on the new Nano X series, Powerbase Edge Lite and Link, Hypercore NEO, Helix Max, and Apex 360. The charger models include the X2 Mini, X4, Fleet, Mach 4 series, and Apex LV and HV chargers.

 

How does it work?

 

1. Fill out our Trade In and Save form to receive a discount code or contact your local dealer to do a trade in locally.

 

2. Order your packs and/or charger at the discounted rate (up to 25% off).

 

3. Receive your batteries and/or charger along with a shipping call tag.

 

4. Ship back your old products to Core SWX by dropping off at a shipping center or if you’re in the LA area, you can drop them off at the Core LA facility.

 

 

Available through the following resellers:

 

AbelCine Brooklyn, NY 11232 Burbank, CA 91506 Chicago, IL 60608 https://www.abelcine.com/	Adorama 42 W 18th Street New York, NY 10011 (212) 741-0063 https://www.adorama.com/g/core-swx-trade-in	Band Pro Film and Digital, Inc. 3403 West Pacific Avenue, Burbank, CA 91505-1555 (818) 841-9655 https://www.bandpro.com/
Birns and Sawyer Inc. 3039 Roswell Street Los Angeles, CA 90065 (323) 466-8211 https://birnsandsawyer.com/	Cinema Shot, LLC 7344 South Alton Way, Suite 8-D Centennial, CO 80112 (303) 997-4420 https://cinemashot.com/	DV Shop Inc 3422 Dundas St W Toronto, ON M6S 2S1 (416) 604-1492 https://www.dvshop.ca/
Filmtools 1400 West Burbank Blvd Burbank, CA 91506 (818) 845-8066 https://www.filmtools.com/	Fotocare 41 West 22nd Street New York, NY 10010 (212) 741-2990 https://www.fotocare.com/	Fusion Cine 1469 Venables St Vancouver, BC V5L 2G1 (604) 879-0003 https://fusioncine.com/
Hot Rod Cameras 772. N. Mariposa Street Burbank, CA 91506 (323) 230-3589 https://hotrodcameras.com/	Glazers Camera 811 Republican St, Seattle, WA 98109 (206) 624-1100 https://www.glazerscamera.com/	Lorne Lapham 3774 Napier Street Burnaby, BC V5C-3E5 (604) 298-3224 https://www.llsr.com/
Maxx Digital 3189 Red Hill Ave. Unit B Costa Mesa, Ca. 92626 (714) 374-4944 https://maxxdigital.com/	Samy’s Camera 431 S. Fairfax Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 1 (800) 321-4726 https://www.samys.com/	Sight & Sound Na Lama Kukui 560 North Nimitz Highway Honolulu, HI 96817 (808) 599-7600 https://sightandsoundhawaii.com/
Transylvania Film 10619 Burbank Blvd North Hollywood, CA 91601 (818) 763-2036 http://www.transfilm.com/	TWIST IST 3915 Dacoma Street, Suite F Houston, Texas 77092 (713) 688-0696 http://www.twistist.com/	Unique Photo Fairfield, NJ 07004 Philadelphia, PA 19106 (973) 377-2007 https://www.uniquephoto.com/
Voice and Video 4909 Ruffner St. San Diego, CA 92111 (858) 467-7111 https://voiceandvideosales.com/	VSA 6929 Seward Avenue Lincoln, NE 68507 (800) 888-2140 https://vsa1.com/

 

The Native Dual Voltage Helix Max battery packs were designed to provide ease of mind to customers while on-set. Since the battery line hit the market, rental houses along with production companies and owner operators were satisfied with the performance of them and the fact they no longer needed separate batteries for different equipment within their kit.
 
Soon thereafter, the Core SWX patented Helix technology, capable of outputting either native low voltage or native high voltage was also integrated into RED Digital Cinema’s REDVOLT XL packs to accompany their new RED Raptor XL camera.
 
Many of our loyal Core customers were thrilled that the new RED Raptor XL incorporated Core’s technology, making it Helix Native, further proving Core’s commitment to standardize the Helix ecosystem. Some already had our Helix line of batteries and others wanted to invest in the new REDVOLT XL packs as they were manufactured by Core, the company they already trusted for power. One customer in particular we got the chance to speak to was John Barrett, founder of Barrett Media Co.
 

 
While working as a Director of Photography, John prefers to use his RED Raptor XL camera, stating, “The new variable internal neutral density system has filled a major gap in my RED workflow that I’ve dealt with for many years.”
 
For power, John has been using Core products from battery packs, to shark-fins, conversion plates, and chargers since 2015 and has come to find “They are the only battery manufacturer that I trust to keep cameras rolling and accessories powered up.” Recently he added 6 of the RED REDVOLT XL battery packs to power up his RED Raptor XL.
 

 
While speaking of the transition to powering a high voltage camera with the Helix battery system, he mentioned “There was essentially no transition for me when switching to the Helix batteries because my previous chargers are all compatible [and] now I have battery packs that can power any accessories and essentially every cinema camera package out there. The automatic voltage switching takes thinking out of the equation. Basically, if a piece of equipment prefers 14V or 28V power, the battery will automatically output the correct voltage.”
 
Further speaking of chargers, “While not a necessary upgrade, the new Mach 4 charger cuts down charging time by 25%, which is extremely helpful on fast-paced productions.” The Mach 4 series of chargers offer a simultaneous 4A charge current, making them the fastest chargers on the market.
 
On one of John’s latest shoots for Hummer / Call of Duty, they utilized the Ultimate Arm car team to get car-to-car shots of the new Hummer EV out in the desert. “Having a single Helix Max pack on the Ultimate Arm allowed us to shoot for almost 2 hours on the RED V-Raptor XL, without needing to swap batteries.”
 
Take a look at all of John’s work on his company’s website and stay connected with him on Instagram.
 

When Core developed and released the Helix Max line of batteries, we wanted to give productions options so they could make a decision that was best for them. The Helix Max pack is a dual voltage battery that comes in V, G, and B-Mount. So anyway you slice it, we can put the battery on any camera or device that takes on-board packs. As soon as Helix Max hit the market, we spoke with a lot of rental houses, cinematographers, ACs, production managers, and individuals who understood the need for high voltage was coming, but low voltage wasn’t going anywhere.
 
Enter the release of two new cameras. Arri’s Alexa 35 and Red’s Raptor XL. This put the conversation in high gear and Core was there with the answers. One rental house we have had the pleasure to work with is Rare Breeds. They are a quickly-growing camera rental house based out of Culver City, CA. With multiples of nearly every camera and a vast assortment of optics in their inventory, they are on the brink of moving into a 6,000 square foot facility shortly after the new year.
 

 
To support those cameras, Rare Breeds turned to Core’s Helix Max batteries for their high and low voltage needs.
 
“We chose the Helix batteries to go along with our Arri Alexa 35 purchases. We needed a battery that could handle both high and low voltage, as well as maintain the normal gold mount style pins that AC’s have on their accessories. From my experience AC’s hate having multiple battery types to deal with on set. The Helix is safe for everything.”
 

 
Core’s Helix Max battery packs were able to achieve this for Rare Breeds. Using Core’s Direct Connect plate to change the B-mount on the Alexa 35 allows the rental house to go g-mount for everything. They now have interchangeable packs for all of their cameras and accessories without the worry of putting the wrong battery on a piece of gear. Since Helix is Native Dual Voltage, they will power everything with the correct voltage.
 

 
This is also a huge relief for the AC on the project. Uniformity in battery mounts and voltage equals a happy 1st AC. One type of charger and no worries of the 2nd grabbing the wrong battery or putting the wrong one on the wrong charger.
 
Speaking of chargers, the transition to Helix has been made simple by Core. Existing chargers in your fleet can be used to charge these packs. Rare Breeds also appreciated this design.
 
“One of the best parts about the gold mount Helix batteries is that they required virtually no transition for us. We’re still able to charge them with our existing chargers and can put them to use on all of our gear.”
 
Core takes pride in its products and design. Everything we do is done with the client in mind. Making your job easier and giving you time to concentrate on your project is our main priority. We heard this from Rare Breeds as well.
 
“Despite this growth, the Rare Breeds ethos remains the same as always: cameras are common and people are rare.  Ultimately, it’s people that make movies and the equipment is all secondary. That said, providing the right gear for the right applications almost always leads to more positive experiences after productions leave our prep floors.”
 

 
By going with Core, we hope you can concentrate on your customers as well and not worry about the gear you provide. Rental houses are huge in building relationships in this industry. People do come first, and by having reliable gear on the shelf, this allows you to grow those relationships.
 
-Stay Core Driven!

 
With the new high voltage era, the battery game has been at the forefront and there’s been a bit of confusion on the different types of batteries out there. Which ones are Native Dual Voltage™ packs and how can they be both native 14V and native 28V? Which ones are solely 26V? And what kind of chargers do you need?
 
Well rest assured, we’re here to answer all of your questions and set the record straight based on actual facts. Let’s dive right into it with this chart showing the different options out there and what each pack’s operating voltage range is.
 

 
As you can see, there are dual voltage packs and then solely high voltage packs. The Core Helix Max V/B/G packs are Native Dual Voltage™, meaning they can operate as a native 14v battery pack and has a native 28v battery pack. Now you may be wondering, how is it possible they are native in both voltages? Well, once connected to a Helix V/G-mount or ARRI® B-mount plate, the pack switches from a parallel cellular 4S arrangement to a series 8S arrangement to provide high voltage. The switching is done with ZERO power regulation and is 100% EFFICIENT. No extra heat or stress is put on the cells once the pack switches to an 8S cellular arrangement and is drawn from. Once removed from the mount plate, the packs switches back to a parallel 4S cellular arrangement instantly so you can use them on all your standard 14v equipment along with chargers.
 

 
Furthermore in regards to the operating voltages, keep in mind what the operating range is on the device you are powering. For example, the ARRI Alexa 35 requires 20.5 – 33.6V which is in the full discharge range of the Helix Max V/B/G-mount packs, Bebob B-mount, and Swit B-mount.
 

 
On the other hand, A/B’s 26v Gold Mount Plus and B-mount packs operating range is 17.5-28.9V which will cause the camera to shut down prior to the 26v battery pack’s full depletion because the pack can’t fully sustain the voltage needs of the camera.
 

 
Voltage is directly related to power – the higher the voltage, the more power delivered. So, the higher the pack’s operating voltage, the more power the pack can deliver, hence a pack offering 28.8v natively like our Helix Max is superior to a 26v pack for cameras and lighting applications.
 
To be very clear, our Helix Max packs are Native Dual Voltage. There’s no up-conversion needed which would create heat and stress on the battery cells.
 
Now before we wrap this up, let’s touch on a few other benefits of using Native Dual Voltage™ packs. With the Helix Max batteries, you can still use your existing 14v charger whereas with the high voltage only battery packs, you need to invest in a new charging system. Not only do you need to spend more money on your equipment, but you also need to carry more chargers to set. In addition, you need to make sure that you pack your specific sets of batteries for your low voltage equipment and high voltage equipment. Then you also need to worry while on-set that you pick up the right battery to power your equipment because you definitely don’t want to put a high voltage pack on low voltage equipment by accident.
 
With Helix Max, you can be left stress-free knowing that you have a battery pack capable of powering any battery powered device in your production and use the same charger for all your packs.
 
For even more in-depth information, take a look here:
 

The new ARRI Alexa 35 is officially here and with that announcement, the new era of powering high voltage cameras and a complete new battery mount platform has also arrived. The B-mount system was designed to provide a super robust mechanical connection to the device’s mount plate, and also has fortified electrical connections to sustain the increased power draws of the newer devices in the marketplace.
 

 
As always we keep our ear to the ground to provide the best power solutions for any new camera, so we have you covered here with the most robust battery packs, Helix Max, as well as the fastest and most compact charger options on the market! Of course, also all the B-mount accessories you may need too.
 

 
The Helix Max series is the most complete, ultra-efficient on-board battery system ever offered to the cinematic industry. The packs offer a maximum output of 10A at high voltage, capable of delivering over 300w of power and provides near lossless power transmission at a 99% efficiency rate to high voltage operating equipment. Available in 98wh (HLX-9MXB), 148wh (HLX-150MXB), 275wh (HLX-275MXB), and 360wh (HLX-360MXB), these B-mount packs will provide ample runtime. They can also be used in conjunction with a Helix B-mount shark-fin plate (HLX-TB-SFF) to double available battery capacity and have the ability to hotswap the battery packs.
 

 
Once the packs deplete, charge them back up with the MACH-4B or MACH-Q4MBI quad chargers which are the fastest chargers on the market capable of charging four 98wh packs in about 90 minutes! On the other hand, the GPM-X2B is the most compact charger on the market making it perfect for travel purposes and able to charge one 98wh pack in 2 and a half hours.
 

 
For any questions, please contact us at sales@coreswx.com 🙂

The new ARRI Alexa 35 is officially here and with that announcement, the new era of powering high voltage cameras and a complete new mount style has also arrived. This has many people questioning, “How should I power it?” which is why we’re here to help you decide all of your options whether you want to invest in the B-mount style system or continue using your current V-mount or G-mount battery fleet.
 

 
Let’s start off by briefly touching on the dual voltage Helix Max series because no matter which mount style you choose, a high voltage battery pack is required for the ARRI Alexa 35. The Helix Max series is the most complete, ultra-efficient on-board battery system ever offered to the cinematic industry. The packs offer a maximum output of 10A at high voltage (20A at low voltage), capable of delivering over 300w of power. It provides near lossless power transmission at a 99% efficiency rate to high voltage operating equipment. Helix’s unique design allows it to output at low voltage on any equipment you may currently use standard 14v battery packs on, as well as charge on all standard V-mount and G-Mount chargers(Helix B-mount requires a new B-mount charger). The packs provide high voltage only when coupled with a Helix V or G mount plate and/or directly onto the B-mount plate of the ARRI Alexa 35, providing an output high voltage up to 33.6v. When on standard equipment(monitors, 14v cameras, wireless tx/rx) V-mount and G-mount plates, the Helix Max packs operate like any other V-mount or G-mount pack.
 
Available in 98wh, 150wh, 275wh, and 360wh models, the packs will provide ample runtime but can also be used in conjunction with a Helix Hotswap plate to double available battery capacity and extended runtimes.
 

 
If you’re interested in investing into the new b-mount battery system, you would mount the HLX-9MXB or HLX-150MXB directly to the B-mount plate on the camera. Of course to complement the new battery packs, we also have two charger offerings. The MACH-4B and MACH-Q4MBI quad chargers are the fastest chargers on the market today able to simultaneously charge four 98wh packs in 1 hour and 40 mins. On the other hand, the GPM-X2B, is the most compact charger on the market making it perfect for travel purposes and able to charge one 98wh pack in 2 and a half hours.
 

 
Now if you are an avid V-mount or G-mount battery user and would like to keep all your battery packs and chargers with the same mount style, we offer direct connect adapter plates which allow you to remove the b-mount plate on the camera and screw on either the HLX-BABV-S35 (V-mount) or HLX-BABG-35 (G-mount).
 

 
The direct connect plates are also compatible with the ARRI Alexa 35’s power distribution module (PDM-1) and audio extension module (AEM-1).
 

 
From there, you will attach the Helix Max v-mount or g-mount battery packs mentioned above to operate the camera in high voltage.
 
If you are looking for a higher capacity pack that is also travel friendly, the original Helix series has a 2-part battery pack called Helix Prime which equals 190wh (95wh each half). The only differences from the original Helix series and Helix Max is that the original Helix packs are not Native Dual Voltage and have a lower load capability of 6A at 28v and 12A at 14v, and no USB.
 
To further explain how the direct connect plates work, take a look at this video below.
 

 
We hope this helps you decide how to power up your new ARRI Alexa 35. If you have any further questions, always feel free to email us at sales@coreswx.com 🙂