In answer to modern digital cameras increasingly pushing the performance limits of the established 12 Volt systems, ARRI, in cooperation with German battery manufacturer bebob, have developed a new 24 volt “B-mount”.  The new battery mount makes it possible to supply 24 Volt devices while providing maximum flexibility regarding the choice of batteries and accessories. ARRI will be using the B-Mount for all of its future cameras.  

This newly developed interface is said to have several advantages compared to its predecessors. The B-Mount provides 24 Volt high-power, but is also equipped to support multi-voltage (both 12 Volt and 24 Volt). Being adaptable for the respective needs of compatible devices, the B-Mount makes it possible to supply all devices on set with a single battery system. Having an open protocol and universal battery communication was extremely important in the B-Mount’s development. Previously, manufacturers had to develop various data transmission protocols for different device configurations. With the B-Mount interface, only one protocol is required. With the introduction of the B-Mount, ARRI and bebob aim to create a new, universal 24 Volt industry standard.  The specifications for this interface have been made accessible and have already been shared with various manufacturers in recent months. Bobob will be presenting their first series of bi-voltage batteries with matching accessories at NAB 2019.