Here’s a detailed, professional spec & overview of the Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler CRPBLC12 (for Panasonic DMW‑BLC12 battery). Let me know if you want a marketing copy version or comparison with one of the other couplers.
Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler — Panasonic DMW‑BLC12 (Model CRPBLC12)
What It Is
The CRPBLC12 is a dummy battery / camera coupler designed to replace the Panasonic DMW‑BLC12 battery in compatible Lumix cameras. It forms part of the Tether Tools Relay / Case Relay Camera Power System. The coupler does not contain a battery itself; instead it allows the camera to draw power from external sources (USB power banks, AC adapters, etc.) via the Relay system—ideal for long shoots, video, timelapse, or any power‑hungry mode.
Where It Fits & Compatibility
| Camera Models Compatible | Battery Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Panasonic Lumix DMC‑GH2, GH2H, G5, G6, G8, G80, G81, G85 | DMW‑BLC12 | These cameras use the BLC12 battery, so this coupler can directly replace the battery compartment. Tether Tools+3Polyline Corp+3B&H Photo Video+3 |
| Panasonic FZ200, FZ300, FZ300GK, FZ1000, GX8, GX8H, G7 | DMW‑BLC12 | Also listed in compatibility charts. Rubber Monkey+2Polyline Corp+2 |
Key Features & Specifications
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Coupler Cable Length | ~ 10 inches / 25.4 cm (from dummy battery to the barrel/coax female input). B&H Photo Video+2Kamera Express+2 |
| Combined Cable Run | With the Relay cable (extension/power system), the total length is ~ 50 inches / 127 cm from the camera battery slot to the external power source. Kamera Express+1 |
| Connector/Input Type | Barrel / coaxial female input to connect into the Relay power cable/power source. B&H Photo Video+1 |
| Functionality | The coupler itself holds no power; it provides power only through external sources plus the Relay system’s backup internal battery (~1,200 mAh) so you can hot‑swap external power without losing power to the camera. Tether Tools+2B&H Photo Video+2 |
Benefits / What It Enables
Extended shooting times — particularly useful for video, timelapse, studio, or field work where changing BLC12 batteries repeatedly is inconvenient.
Hot‑swap capability — since the Relay system includes its own internal buffer battery, one can swap external power banks without shutting off the camera. Tether Tools+1
Flexibility in power sources — works with various external 5V supply options (USB power bank, AC adapter, etc.), rather than only battery packs.
Cost‑effectiveness — reduces need to buy many proprietary batteries for long shoots; leverage shared external power banks.
Limitations & Things to Watch Out For
Must ensure the camera’s battery door can fully close with the dummy battery installed, and that the cable exits cleanly through the rubber trapdoor (or built‑in cable exit) so that door closing does not force or pinch the cable. Tether Tools+1
External power sources and cables must supply adequate current. Under high draw (video, continuous Live View), weak power sources or cables with voltage drop may lead to instability.
The coupler doesn’t provide backup power itself; relying on external + Relay buffer. If both are depleted, shooting stops.
Physical stress on the cable or door hinge if not routed or supported well—use strain relief where possible.