SmallRig D-tap to Dual-Sided NP-F Dummy Battery with USB-C, DC Port and LED Display (4884)
Product description
What it is
SmallRig’s D-tap to Dual-Sided NP-F Dummy Battery is a multi-output power solution designed to feed wireless transmitters and monitors from a central power source. It’s built to mount on rigs on both sides, helping to reduce clutter and simplify a compact setup.
How it helps you in real shoots
On paper, the unit offers a four-channel output with dual NP-F interfaces shared across 8V/4A and a total of 33W, so you can run wireless video transmitters and monitors without swapping batteries frequently. The DC port is rated at 33W for NP-FZ100/LP-E6NH/EN-EL15C dummy batteries, while a separate Type-C PD port provides 5/9/12V up to 33W for cameras or mobile devices. Important to note: it is not designed to be plugged directly into a camera, so you won’t power the camera from this specific block.
Build quality and safety
The unit is machined from CNC aluminium for heat dissipation and solid structure, with fire-resistant PC/PU materials to help with longevity. It features multi-layer safeguards against overheating, short circuits, and under/over-voltage, which compounds reliability in demanding shoots.
What stands out in use
A notable convenience is the retractable power cable, extending from 39 cm up to 139 cm, which helps you keep the rig tidy and reduces tangles on set. Real-time visibility is another plus: two displays show port input voltage and NP-F/DC output voltage, while a single indicator confirms polarity and safe voltage range. This makes it easier to track power across connected devices without fiddling with separate meters.
Things to consider before buying
It’s a specialist power accessory, so its usefulness hinges on your rig and power needs. If you rely on a single battery type across multiple devices or require camera power from the same pack, you’ll want to check compatibility with your NP-FZ100/LP-E6NH/EN-EL15C dummy batteries and confirm that your setup benefits from the wired distribution rather than alternative power solutions. Also, since it’s not a camera power source, you’ll still need a separate camera battery or DC solution for shooting sessions that require camera power.
Who this is for
This dummy battery hub suits small to mid-size rigs where you want centralised power for monitors and wireless transmitters, with flexible cabling to reduce clutter. It’s particularly appealing if you work with NP-F style packs and need a simple, visible power status while juggling multiple devices.
Practical usage idea
Imagine a handheld monitor and a wireless transmitter bound to a single power source. You route the D-tap to dual NP-F outputs to feed both devices, while the USB-C PD port keeps a mobile device topped up during a long shoot. The dual-sided design helps keep equipment balanced on a compact rig.
When it may not be the best fit
If your workflow already relies on direct camera power or you require a solution that can feed the camera itself, this unit won’t replace a camera power supply. Also, if you don’t use NP-F style packs, or if you need more than 33W from a single port for your devices, you may need to evaluate alternative power hubs.
What to check before buying
- Confirm compatibility with your NP-FZ100/LP-E6NH/EN-EL15C dummy batteries and your specific wireless transmitter/monitor models.
- Verify any length constraints in your rig to ensure the extended cable reaches where you need it without tension.
- Consider the need for a dedicated camera power solution alongside this module.
FAQ
- Can it power a camera directly? No, the unit isn’t designed to plug into the camera itself.
- How many devices can run simultaneously? It provides 4-way output across dual NP-F interfaces plus a Type-C PD port.
- Is it rugged enough for on-location shoots? Yes, its aluminium build and safety features are aimed at demanding environments, though you should still treat it as a power hub within a complete rig.
Final decision
Final verdict
You’ll like it if your setup relies on NP-F style packs and you need centralised power with clear status indicators and flexible cabling. It’s best viewed as a practical add-on for powering monitors and wireless transmitters, not a universal power source for cameras. If your priorities include tidy rigs, real-time voltage visibility, and multi-device power, this could be a sensible addition. If your needs lean towards powering the camera or you require higher or single-port power for more demanding devices, you may want to look for alternatives or complementary solutions.