Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler CRN5B for Nikon cameras with EN‑EL15 / EN‑EL15C batteries—including specs, compatibility, advantages, and things to watch out for.
Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler CRN5B – Nikon EN‑EL15(C)
What It Is
The CRN5B is a dummy‑battery coupler made by Tether Tools. Its job is to replace a Nikon EN‑EL15/EN‑EL15C battery in compatible cameras, allowing continuous camera power via their Case Relay / ONsite Relay Camera Power System. It has no battery of its own; it simply routes power from an external 5 V source (like a USB power bank or AC adapter) through the Relay system into the camera.
Key Features & Technical Specifications
| Spec | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Model | CRN5B (versions include EN‑EL15 or “EN‑EL15C” variant, sometimes labeled CRN5B‑C) Glazer's Camera+3polylinecorp.com+3B&H Photo Video+3 |
| Battery Type Replaced | Nikon EN‑EL15 / EN‑EL15C battery polylinecorp.com+2B&H Photo Video+2 |
| Compatible Cameras | Many Nikon DSLR / mirrorless models, including (but not limited to): D500, D600, D610, D7000, D7100, D7200, D750, D780, D800, D810, D850, and also Nikon Z series that accept EN‑EL15C. B&H Photo Video+1 |
| Cable Length (Coupler to input) | ~ 10 inches (~ 25.4 cm) polylinecorp.com+2B&H Photo Video+2 |
| Total Cable Run with Relay System | Coupler + Relay cable yields ~ 50 in (≈ 127 cm) from camera battery cavity to external power source. Glazer's Camera+2wiregcc.com+2 |
| Connector Type | Barrel/coax female input (the side that connects to the Relay power cable) B&H Photo Video+2Glazer's Camera+2 |
| Warranty | Limited 90‑day warranty from the manufacturer. PROCAM Photo & Video Gear+1 |
Advantages / What It Enables
Continuous / Uninterrupted Power: Ideal for long shoots, timelapse, Live View, or video where battery drain is a concern. Eliminates the need for frequent battery swaps. polylinecorp.com+2Filmtools+2
Hot‑Swap External Power: Thanks to the Relay power system having a buffer/backup battery, you can swap external power sources (power bank / wall adapter) without powering off the camera. Tether Tools+2wiregcc.com+2
Cost & Flexibility: No longer bound to proprietary batteries for long sessions. You can use standard 5V external power sources. This is especially useful in field work, events, or remote shoots. polylinecorp.com+1
Supports many Nikon bodies using EN‑EL15/15C batteries, making this coupler broadly useful across different cameras. B&H Photo Video+2Tether Tools+2
Limitations & Things to Watch Out For
Battery Door Closure: The camera’s battery door must close fully, with the coupler cable exiting via the rubber trapdoor or designated cable port. If the battery door is forced, left open, or the cable isn’t routed properly, this can cause mechanical stress or loss of cable integrity. polylinecorp.com+2acephoto.net+2
No Power Storage in the Coupler: The coupler itself has no battery; if external power is lost and the Relay system buffer is drained, the camera will shut off. polylinecorp.com+1
Power Source Quality / Cable Drop: Under high power draw (video, Live View, etc.), the external power source needs to supply sufficient current, and the cables used should maintain voltage without significant drop. Poor quality cables or low current external sources may cause instability or shutdowns.
Compatibility Limits: While many Nikon cameras using EN‑EL15/15C are supported, some listed sources (e.g. India retailer) note that EN‑EL15 bodies may or may not support the coupler depending on official camera support; some cameras (e.g. newer mirrorless bodies) may require EN‑EL15C variant or have tighter power requirements. Always check the compatibility list for your exact camera model. imastudent+1
Heat & Environmental Strain: Continuous use, high operating temps, or prolonged exposure (e.g. in direct sunlight) may increase risk of overheating or degraded performance. Adequate cooling / rest is advisable in prolonged shoots.
If you want, I can write a polished product‑page / marketing description for this coupler, or prepare a side‑by‑side comparison between CRN5B vs CRN5A (EN‑EL14) so you can see which is more suitable for your gear.