Anton/Bauer reveals next-generation VCLX battery
Jun 9, 2022
Anton/Bauer, manufacturer of mobile power solutions for broadcast and cinematic equipment and a Videndum brand, has announced the next generation of its VCLX battery. The new VCLX NM2 delivers 600Wh of consistent power at 14.4V, 28V and 48V to drive high-power draw equipment at peak performance on cinematic productions.
“The original VCLX battery was honoured for adding significant value to the making of motion pictures with an Academy Award for scientific and technical achievement,” said Andrew Hutton, product manager at Anton/Bauer. “Since then, the familiar blue block has become the go-to source of reliable power for cinematic productions around the world. With the new VCLX NM2 we have evolved the technology to deliver even greater versatility on set.”
With 14.4V, 28V and 48V output, VCLX NM2 is the perfect all-in-one battery solution for power hungry cameras, monitors, lights, and other equipment. One XLR3 and two XLR4 connectors provide dual simultaneous high current output delivering consistent 24A current at 14.4V, 16A at 28V or 12A at 48V from the 600Wh NiMH battery.
Weighing in at 29.35 lbs (13.3 kg), the new lighter battery is built to withstand the rigours of set life, grip trucks and shipping cases, VCLX NM2 is engineered from tough anodised aluminium with over-moulded end caps and handle grip. Efficient thermal design with passive cooling means no fan noise on set, and the sealed case is water-resistant up to 8.5” (21.6cm).
Real-time onboard diagnostics via the 2.4” colour LCD screen means the battery and equipment can be monitored to ensure peak performance. VCLX smart technology calculates everything being powered via XLR3, XLR4 or USB for maximum power efficiency.
“Understanding the unique needs of cinema production, we have evolved the VCLX NM2 battery system to provide ultimate power performance and flexibility,” said David Pasko, engineering manager at Anton/Bauer. “Thanks to the safety and high-power-draw performance of Anton/Bauer’s premium cell chemistry technology, combined with over 50 years of industry-leading engineering and testing, this one solution can handle the specific needs of high-power digital cinema equipment, plus all accessories.”
New fleet management allows full command of entire battery fleets. The VCLX NM2 Sends status information including capacity, cycle count, temperature, and time-stamped reports directly from the battery via built-in Wi-Fi or information can be downloaded to USB storage. Owners can save time spent manually testing batteries for healthy inventory with more uptime
VCLX NM2 is available to order now priced from $4,200 at Anton/Bauer dealers.
Comment / Laurence Johnson, sustainability manager, Film London