Here are full details for the Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler for Sony Cameras with NP‑F / “Sony L Series” Battery (Model: CRCNPF) — specs, compatibility, advantages, and what to look out for.
Tether Tools Relay Camera Coupler — Sony NP‑F “L Series” (CRCNPF)
What It Is
This is a dummy battery coupler that replaces Sony NP‑F (L Series) batteries in cameras or devices that use those battery packs. It is part of Tether Tools’ Case Relay Camera Power System (CPS) / ONsite Relay ecosystem. The coupler itself does not contain a battery; it allows external power (via the Relay power unit or other 5 V USB sources) to feed the camera, enabling continuous power without swapping batteries.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Value / Comment |
|---|---|
| Model / SKU | CRCNPF Polyline Corp+2Tether Tools+2 |
| Battery Type Replaced | Sony NP‑F / “L Series” batteries Polyline Corp+2Tether Tools+2 |
| Cable Length (from coupler to its power‑input end) | ~ 10 inches / ≈ 25.4 cm Polyline Corp+2B&H Photo Video+2 |
| Total Cable Run with Relay System | ~ 50 inches (~ 127 cm) when combined with the Relay / external cable run in the power system. Tether Tools+2Tanotis+2 |
| What It Contains | Coupler alone (one unit); sealed under Tether Tools 90‑day warranty. Tether Tools+2B&H Photo Video+2 |
| Power System Required | Yes — must be used with the Case Relay / ONsite Relay Camera Power System to supply external 5V power. The coupler does not itself store power. Tether Tools+2Polyline Corp+2 |
Compatible Cameras / Devices
This coupler works with Sony (and other) devices that use the NP‑F / L Series batteries. Some examples (but always check for your exact model) include:
Sony mirrorless / “L Series” battery‑powered cameras & gear that accept NP‑F / L Series battery packs. Polyline Corp+2Tether Tools+2
It’s also often used with monitors, video rigs, camcorders, LED lights or other accessories that accept NP‑F batteries. The CRCNPF coupler lets such devices be powered by more universal USB power (via the Relay system). B&H Photo Video+1
What It Enables / Benefits
Continuous power: You no longer need to swap out NP‑F batteries mid shoot for long video, LiveView, streaming, or time‑lapse work.
Hot‑swap capability: Because the Relay system often has an internal buffer battery (UPS functionality), you can change external power sources (battery banks / adapters) without losing power to the camera. Tether Tools+1
Cost efficiency: Instead of carrying multiple NP‑F battery packs, you can use standard USB battery banks or adapters with this setup.
Flexibility across gear: Useful if you already own the Relay power system; you can swap couplers for different camera brands, including Sony, Panasonic, etc.
Things to Watch Out For / Limitations
| Limitation / Risk | Details & What to Check |
|---|---|
| Battery door closure & cable routing | The dummy battery plus its cable must fit such that the camera’s battery door can close cleanly, with the cable exiting via the camera’s trapdoor or cable routing port, so there’s no tension or risk of damage. Tether Tools+1 |
| No internal power in coupler | The coupler doesn’t store power. If both the external source and any buffer in the Relay system are depleted, the camera will lose power. Plan accordingly. |
| Power draw | NP‑F / L Series devices may draw considerable current (especially video mode). Use a sufficiently rated external power source and good cabling to avoid voltage drop or instability. |
| Heat / thermal behavior | Extended operation may generate heat; ensure good ventilation and avoid extreme ambient temperatures that could lead to shutdowns or reliability issues. |
| Compatibility check | Though it’s made for NP‑F / L Series, some Sony models or accessories may have non‑standard battery bay designs or internal components that need specific couplers. Always confirm your exact model is supported. |