Core SWX Helix Max 275 and 360 Introduced – Higher Capacity Battery Packs for B- G- and V-Mounts

Battery News

by Jürgen MoorsMarch 9^th, 2023

Battery manufacturer Core SWX has expanded the Helix dual voltage batteries with the new Helix Max batteries. The smaller HLX-275MX with 18,5Ah and the larger HLX-360MX with 25,5 Ah are both available in a V-Mount, G-Mount, and B-Mount version. So, let’s have a closer look at these new powerhouses!

Core SWX is a US battery manufacturer specialized in high-quality and innovative power solutions for the film industry. The Helix dual voltage battery line-up was originally introduced at the NAB in 2019. If you are not familiar with Helix batteries, please check this article about the launch.

Helix Max 275 and 360 – features

Helix Max battery line is focused on powering cinema cameras and lighting equipment, with a Native Dual Voltage of 14v/28v output for high voltage applications. Its design allows it to output up to 33.6v, drawing less current, creating less heat, and extending operational runtime. Additionally, Helix charges on all standard V-Mount and G-Mount Lithium-Ion equipment, allowing integration into a rental or production environment.

Native dual-voltage batteries

Core’s Native Dual Voltage platform is a power delivery system, which allows Helix Max battery packs to be compatible with 14v and up to 33.6v equipment and chargers, as well as high-voltage cinema camera equipment and lighting gear. With this platform, Helix Max batteries can provide up to 12A throughput at high voltage, and 24A throughput on low voltage devices.

The native dual voltage platform allows for 100% efficient power transmission since there is no power regulation on the battery mains.

Helix Max runtime LCD and LED gauge

Both models, the Helix Max 275 and 360 are equipped with a 3-phase backlit LCD screen mounted on the side of the battery pack. The small screen can provide information on battery life and charge status. It is designed to display estimated runtime when the pack is not in use and an actual calculated runtime when it is in use by sampling the load every few seconds.

When placed on a charger, the LCD rotates 90 degrees to display the remaining charge time until the battery is fully charged. Additionally, the LCD displays a bar graph, runtime in hours and minutes, and remaining percentage capacity, knowing exactly how much power you have left at any given time.

All models come equipped with a wrap-around battery status LED gauge. This feature allows cinematographers to view battery status from anywhere on set. A button on the side of the pack can illuminate the LEDs to display the charge status when not in use.

Camera communication

One of the key benefits of Helix Max battery packs is their ability to communicate information to the camera. By transmitting the same information displayed on the runtime LCD to the camera, operators can view data, such as voltage, battery runtime, and percentage directly on their camera display.

Helix Max – new housing design

The Helix Max 275 and 360 also feature polycarbonate housing that provides protection from the stress of cinema production. This housing design is built to withstand the high demands of tough filming environments while being lightweight and portable.

The polycarbonate material is durable, and it provides shock absorption that can help protect the battery cells from damage during transport or when the battery is in use on set. It is also quite heat resistant, which is critical when working with high-powered cinematic lighting and equipment that generates significant heat.

Choose the mount type

All Helix Max battery packs are available in V-mount, G-mount, and B-mount. This choice allows for easy integration into current battery fleets without compatibility issues.

Technical data

Series HLX-275MX

• Capacity: 14,8v, 275wh (18580mAh), 28,8v in HV mode
• Size: 8,9 x 16 x 7 cm / 3,5 x 6,3 x 2,75 in.
• Weight: 1,4 kg / 3,1 lbs / 49,4 oz
• Chemical Cell Lithium: Ion
• Mains Voltage Output: Native Dual Voltage(14v/28v)
• Ptap: 14v
• USB: 5v
• Max Load: Up to 24A(14v)/up to 12A(28v)
• Battery Status: 3-Phase Runtime/Charge Time LCD
• Build: Polycarbonate
• Warranty: 2 years

Series HLX-360MX

• Capacity: 14,8v, 367wh (25500mAh), 28,8v in HV mode
• Size: 8,9 x 16 x 9,1 cm / 3,5 x 6,3 x 3,6 in.
• Weight: 1,6 kg / 3,6 lbs / 57 oz
• Chemical Cell Lithium: Ion
• Mains Voltage Output: Native Dual Voltage(14v/28v)
• Ptap: 14v
• USB: 5v
• Max Load: Up to 24A(14v)/up to 12A(28v)
• Battery Status: 3-Phase Runtime/Charge Time LCD
• Build: Polycarbonate
• Warranty: 2 years

Price and availability

All models can be pre-ordered already, the retail price for the 275 models is $825 USD and the 360 models is $975 USD.  For further information, please visit the CoreSWX website.

What do you think about the new dual-voltage Helix Max battery packs? Would you be interested in investing in these big batteries? Please let us know in the comments section below.