As backup batteries become more and more important for photographers, V-mount versions are essential for video shooters. Among its accessories, Neewer has one that fits the bill: the PS099E.
What is a V-Mount battery?
If you’re doing video, or it’s something you’re considering for the future, you’re thinking about your entire rig, not just your cameras. One thing to consider is how you’re powering the many pieces of equipment needed for a successful shoot. The last thing you want is to be constantly down because one of your lights runs out of battery, then your camera, then your studio monitor, then your wireless mic receiver. This is where a high-powered V-mount battery comes in, as it powers all of them at once.
V-mount batteries—sometimes called V-lock batteries—are battery packs with a V-shaped hinge that slides into a mount. They are easy to install and remove and can power a variety of devices, including lights, microphones, and cameras. Power can come directly from the battery or, for larger setups, from multiple ports on the mounting plate.
Considerations When Purchasing V-Mount Batteries
There are two things to consider when buying a V-mount battery. The first is the battery capacity in watt-hours (Wh). Higher capacity batteries save a lot of hassle by reducing the need to replace individual batteries on your device as they run out. Instead, you remove the single V-mount battery and put in the next one, and it runs everything.
V-mount batteries typically have much larger capacity than standard power banks, so they’re also a better choice for photographers who are away from home for long periods of time. Neewer PS099E Machine is no exception, boasting a massive 6,800 mAh battery capacity at 14.5 V, equivalent to about 99 Wh.
The second consideration is the number and type of ports. While you would normally attach the battery to your rig with a plate, that is not necessary. You can plug your device directly into the battery.
Many better quality cameras, though not all, can be powered or at least recharged via USB-C, and they can be plugged directly into this battery. Additionally, external camera battery chargers may have a USB-C port, allowing charging from this device.
First impressions and specs
What a pleasure, Neewer PS990E Packed in recyclable boxes with minimal plastic.
The battery is a sturdy, clean-looking block of black plastic measuring 3.37” x 2.87” x 2.23” (8.6 cm x 7.3 cm x 5.67 cm). It weighs 20.8 oz (590 g). The battery case is made of fire-resistant material and houses the lithium-ion battery cells. The battery has textured edges for a non-slip grip.
The battery has a built-in battery management system (BMS) that provides temperature, overcharge, overdischarge, and overvoltage protection, significantly reducing the risk of fire or explosion. It is important to note that Neewer is a reputable manufacturer. Some other products like this on the market do not adhere to the same high safety standards, so be careful if you decide to buy other brands as cheap copies can catch fire.
It can discharge up to 99 watts. Using it at that level, it can last for about an hour.
On top is the power button that activates the battery, although it also has an automatic switch that detects when a device is plugged in. The OLED display on top shows the battery charge level and the power being supplied or drawn from the input and output ports. A short press of the power button will cycle between those displays.
It has six ports, including USB-A (output), USB-C (input and output), 2.1mm 8V (output), 2.5mm 12V (output), D-TAP (input and output), plus the BP Charging Port (input and output). The last port is used when using the V-mount plate. All ports, except the BP Charging Port, have hinged rubber dust covers.
The USB-C output offers up to 65W of charging and discharging power. From empty, it takes about three hours to charge the battery using that port.
If you’re not familiar with D-TAP connectors, they’re found on batteries like this one. They’re high-capacity ports designed to power a variety of high-end devices, such as camcorders, LED rigs, microphones, monitors, etc.
In use
The battery was over 50% charged. Once plugged in, it fully charged in about an hour and a half using the phone’s high-speed charger via the USB-C port. The battery does not come with a charger.
I have run many different instruments from it, not just Neewer FS 230B Video Light via D-TAP feed. I’ll revisit that light soon. I ran it for an hour and saw no dimming or flickering due to voltage fluctuations.
All the plugs fit snugly into the various sockets around the battery and are evenly spaced around the device, allowing room for plugging in and out. Deep grooves on the side help me keep a firm grip on the battery when plugging in and out of the device.
Are you planning to fly?
If you are planning to fly with this type of battery, it must be less than the 100Wh maximum and can be carried in carry-on baggage but not in the hold. However, you must get approval from your airline before carrying any spare battery. For all batteries, the terminals must be taped or the battery must be in its original packaging to avoid short circuits and fire. Check with your airline for any specific requirements before flying with any battery.
What I like and what could be improved
What I like
- This is a powerful device with a smart and professional finish.
- It has built-in BMS safety circuit.
- It is quite compact considering the amount of power it provides.
- 99W high capacity battery.
- BP/DTap 8 ampere power supply.
- The V-bracket fits and is compatible with professional video equipment.
- Multiple inputs and outputs, including D-TAP, make the product versatile.
- The USB-C port also means this is a large capacity power bank too.
- It has a wide operating temperature range.
- Simple brown cardboard packaging, suitable for storage and recyclable.
- Good value.
- Two year warranty.
What could be improved next time?
- It can’t be hinged like other port covers because it would prevent the battery from attaching to the base, but the removable cover for the BP Charging Port will be useful when flying and when working in the field to keep the terminals clean and dry.
Conclude
This V-mount battery has a much larger capacity than the spare battery I recently purchased. Over time and as technology changes, battery capacity will increase even more.
At the current level of technology, I can shoot stills all day long with OM-1 Mark II without having to change batteries, and not so long ago with older DSLRs I needed to carry three or four spare batteries. However, on a wilderness expedition, having enough power to recharge the camera is a huge benefit and Laptop PS099E will take care of itself.
Also, for powering a powerful video light, this battery is a must-have. It’s a useful piece of equipment and a welcome addition to any bag. Perfect? It’s pretty close.
