PAG 9303, 9304, 9308, 9309 Users Guide

U5132V

V-Mount Intelligent
Linking Batteries

User Guide

PAG Ltd.

565 Kingston Road
London SW20 8SA
United Kingdom

E: [e-mail]
T: [phone]
www.paguk.com

Disclaimer

The information contained in this document is correct at

the time of publication. PAG Ltd. reserves the right to

change specifications or product details without

notification. Changes to product details will be

incorporated in the next version of the document.

PAG updates documents on a regular basis.

Trademarks

All PAG registered trademarks are the property of PAG Ltd.

All third party trademarks are acknowledged as such.

Copyright © 2016 PAG Ltd. All rights reserved

Contents

Section Page

1 Introduction 4

2 Specification 6

3 Charging 7

4 Discharging 8

Thank you for choosing PAGlink V-Mount Intelligent

Linking Batteries. Please read the important safety

information and instructions before using your

battery.

5 Storage 9

6 Run-Time & Capacity Information 10

7 Battery Protection Features 13

8 PAGlink Features 14

9 Safety & Disposal 17

10 Guarantee 18

11 Air Transport Regulations 19

3

1. Introduction

1.1 Models covered by these instructions:

PAGlink V-Mount

PAGlink V-Mount batteries are designed for compatibility with the
Sony V-Mount specification. There is a choice between 96Wh and
150Wh capacities, and a choice between a 5-light and a numeric
Run-Time & Capacity Display.

Model Name Capacity Display

9303 PAGlink PL96e 96Wh 5-Light

9304 PAGlink PL96T 96Wh Numeric

9308 PAGlink PL150e 150Wh 5-Light

9309 PAGlink PL150T 150Wh Numeric

1.2 The unique PAGlink system allows up to 8 batteries to be linked for

charge or discharge, regardless of their rated capacity or their state­of-charge.

1.3 When linked, PAGlink batteries form a network that allows them to

communicate with each other and report to the camera as one battery.

1.4 The PAGlink system will automatically select the most suitable

batteries for discharge, according to their charge status. Batteries do
not discharge into each other. The system ensures that the maximum
linked output is kept to a safe level.

PAGlink
Contact
Block

1.5 PAGlink batteries can deliver a current of up to 12A when linked,

using superior, high-current pin contacts.

1.6 PAGlink batteries can be hot-swapped to deliver continuous power,

which means no more time-wasting camera reboots.

PAGlink
Release
Button

INTERNATIONAL PATENTS APPLY

Display
Button

PAGlink

Latching

Mechanism

Main Battery Contacts

PAGlink
Contact
Shield

4

1. Introduction

1.7 All PAGlink batteries feature a display that provides remaining run-

time for the total of all linked batteries, and remaining capacity for
each individual battery.

1.8 The battery display maintains accuracy by tracking performance and

adjusting calibration values to compensate for the ageing of the cells.

1.9 PAGlink batteries will automatically detect and adapt to a multitude

of camera data systems to provide capacity information in the camera
viewfinder/LCD.

1.10 Batteries in any state of charge, regardless of capacity, can be linked

for charging, in multiples of 8 or less. During charging, the least­charged batteries are given priority. The charge status for each battery
is shown on its own display.

1.11 The intelligent PAGlink batteries manage their own charging safely and

efficiently, and can be charged whilst linked using other reputable
manufacturer’s Li-Ion chargers.

1.12 Power from the battery linking contacts can be accessed using the

PAGlink PowerHub, an accessory power plate which provides multiple
D-Tap ouputs, (interchangeable with Hirose, Lemo and 2.1mm
connectors) and a USB output.

1.13 PAGlink battery and charger firmware can be updated easily by the

customer, via external contacts, using an update tool provided by
PAG.

1.14 PAGlink Li-Ion batteries are tested by an independent authority to

UN standards in compliance with IATA Air Transport regulations.

Micro Charger - World’s smallest

V-Mount multi-battery charger

PowerHub - Provides outputs

to power camera accessories

PL16 Charger - 16 batteries

charged simultaneously

5

2. Specification

2.1 Cell Technology: Premium-grade Lithium-Ion sealed rechargeable

cylindrical cells.

2.2 Capacities:

Models 9303 & 9304:

Nominal 6.5 Ampere-hours (96 Watt-hours).

Models 9308 & 9309:

Nominal 10 Ampere-hours (150 Watt-hours).

2.3 Voltage: 14.8V nominal. 12 cells connected in series/parallel.

Each cell has a nominal voltage of 3.7V.

2.4 Output Current: The rated maximum continuous output current for

two or more linked batteries is 12 Amperes (8 Amperes for individual
batteries).

2.5 Temperature Range:

Charging:

0°C to +45°C Optimum +10 to +40°C
+32°F to +113°F Optimum +50°F to +104°F

Discharging:

-20°C to +50°C Optimum +10°C to +40°C

-4°F to +122°F Optimum +50°F to +104°F

Storage:

-10°C to +40°C Optimum 0°C to +20°C
+14°F to +104°F Optimum +32°F to +68°F

2.6 Dimensions (L x W x H):

133mm (5.2") x 84mm (3.3") x 50mm (1.9")

2.7 Weight:

Models 9303 & 9304: 726g (1.6lbs) approx.
Models 9308 & 9309: 770g (1.7lbs) approx.

6

3. Charging

3.1 IMPORTANT: READ THE CHARGER HANDBOOK BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO

CHARGE THE BATTERY.

3.2 The following PAGlink chargers will charge PAGlink V-Mount batteries,

individually or linked, regardless of their capacity or state of charge:

9707 PAGlink PL16 Charger 2-positions, 8 batteries on each

9711 PAGlink PL16+ Charger 4-positions, 4 batteries on each

9708 PAGlink Cube Charger 4-positions, 4 batteries on each

9710 PAGlink Micro Charger 1-position, 4 batteries in total

9713V PAGlink Micro Charger 1-position, 4 batteries in total

The following chargers will charge PAGlink V-Mount batteries
individually or linked (batteries must be within 40% state-of-charge
of each other to be charged fully):

9702V PAG Cube Charger 4 positions, 4 batteries on each

9702VR PAG RMC4X Charger 4 positions, 4 batteries on each

Constant-voltage V-Mount Li-Ion chargers of other reputable
manufacturers are also suitable.

3.3 The batteries incorporate a temperature sensor which will inhibit

charging if their temperature is below 0°C. See Section 2
Specification for the charging temperature range of PAGlink
batteries.

3.4 Charge Times: Times given are for fully-discharged batteries to fully-

charged, using a PAGlink PL16 charger.

1 x 96Wh battery 2 hrs 30 mins

2 x 96Wh batteries 3 hrs

4 x 96Wh batteries 6 hrs

6 x 96Wh batteries 9 hrs 30 mins

8 x 96Wh batteries 11 hrs 45 mins

16 x 96Wh batteries 24 hrs

1 x 150Wh battery 3 hrs 45 mins

2 x 150Wh batteries 4 hrs 30 mins

4 x 150Wh batteries 9 hrs

6 x 150Wh batteries 13 hrs

8 x 150Wh batteries 18 hrs

16 x 150Wh batteries 36 hrs

3.5 PAGlink batteries display their individual status, during charging,

on their built-in display. When using PL16 chargers, the characters
of the numeric display can be inverted, for legibility, with a single
button press. The display reverts automatically after removal from
the charger.

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4. Discharging

4.1 The batteries incorporate a precision fixed end-of-discharge cutoff set

to 12.5V, as measured by the battery. This cutoff will only operate if
the battery capacity is less than 5%, eliminating unwanted operation
due to high current and low battery temperature.

4.2 The maximum continuous discharge current for a single PAGlink

V-Mount battery is 8A. The batteries incorporate a current limit, and
consumption above this for more than 5 seconds will trigger the over­current protection, turning the battery output off.

4.3 If the battery is discharged at too high a rate, even momentarily, the

protection circuit may be triggered, disconnecting the battery output.
It can be recovered by simply removing it from the load and pressing
the display button, provided the battery still retains some charge.

4.4 Where total continuous consumption is above 8A, two or more PAGlink

batteries should be linked. This will increase the maximum continuous
discharge current to 12A, provided the batteries are in a similar state
of charge.

4.5 The battery may be discharged within the temperature range -20°C

to +50°C, but for optimum performance, +10°C to +40°C is
recommended. The operating time will be shorter in conditions of
low temperature, and discharging will be electronically inhibited if
the battery temperature is below -20°C.

4.6 When the battery has been discharged at a high rate it will become

warm, and it is advisable to let it cool before charging it.

4.7 Computer Reset

The battery features a computer reset function. In exceptional
circumstances, a computer reset may be required. This is achieved by
holding the display button in for 20 seconds.

8

5.1 PAGlink batteries can be left stacked on a charger until required;

the charger will keep them topped-up ready for use.

5.2 For long-term storage, batteries should be in a half-charged state,

and unlinked. Storing batteries linked accelerates the rate at which
they self-discharge.

5.3 Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place at a temperature

between 0°C and +20°C. Long-term storage outside of this temperature
range may reduce the battery’s life. Maintenance charging is not
required during long term storage.

5.4 After storage it is advisable to fully-charge batteries before use.

5. Storage

9

6. Run-Time & Capacity Information

6.1 The Numeric Display:

The battery is able to display a numeric run-time prediction against
load, and charge status as a percentage.

1

(1) When connected to a camera that is turned on, two presses of the

battery’s display button will show a predicted run-time against the
given load, expressed in hours and minutes. When batteries are linked
the run-time displayed relates to the total for the connected
batteries. The battery requires up to 5 seconds before it is able to
give an accurate run-time prediction.

(2) A single button press of the display, whether the battery is off or
on-load, shows a percentage figure of available capacity. When the
batteries are linked this figure still relates to the battery’s individual
capacity.

3

(3) When battery capacity drops below 5% the display will indicate

that the battery should be charged as above.

(4) When the battery is fully charged the display will indicate 100%.

6.2 The 5-Light Display:

The battery is able to indicate a run-time prediction, against load,
and charge status as a percentage.

2

5

(5) When connected to a camera that is turned on, two presses of

the battery’s display button activates the time display. The ‘HRS’ LED
will flash twice.

(6) The number of hours will then be indicated by the number of lit
segments: each light = 1 hour.

7

4

(7) The ‘MINS’ light will then flash twice.

(8) The number of minutes will be indicated by the number of lit

segments: each light = 10 mins. When batteries are linked the run­time displayed relates to the total for the connected batteries.

6

8

10

9

(9) A single button-press, whether the battery is on or off-load,

displays charge status in terms of percentage. When batteries are
linked this figure still relates to the battery’s individual capacity.
The lights indicate remaining capacity in percentage blocks:

80 - 100% remaining

60 - 79% remaining

40 - 59% remaining

6. Run-Time & Capacity Information

6.3 In-Viewfinder Battery Status

Battery status can be shown as a percentage of available capacity in
the viewfinder/LCD of cameras designed to accept this data. Different
data standards are used by camera and battery manufacturers. PAGlink
V-Mount batteries automatically adjust the data output standard to
support SMB (Sony) and I2C (IDX).

When the batteries are linked, the data displayed in the viewfinder/
LCD is for the combined capacity available.

Red Cameras and Reversed SMB

PAGlink V-Mount batteries can be programmed easily by the user to
provide capacity data in the viewfinder of Red cameras that use the
reversed SMB data protocol.

20 - 39% remaining

10 - 19% remaining

1 Flashing = 0 - 10% remaining

Press the display button twice, and hold down on the second press
until ‘RED’ appears (on the numeric display) or until the top 2
segments are lit (5-light indicator). This indicates that the battery is
now compatible with the reversed SMB data protocol. When the
battery is connected to a camera with a different data protocol it will
automatically adjust to communicate with that system. To return to
reversed SMB, repeat the two-button-press process.

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6. Run-Time & Capacity Information

6.4 PAG Numeric Display Data Output

Data stored in the battery’s microprocessor can be revealed using the
battery display by following this procedure:

1. Press the display button 3 times (in 1 second intervals) and
hold down on the 3rd press.

2. After 5 seconds all segments of the display will be lit.

3. Release the display button and the 1st menu option will appear.

4. Press the button again to move on to the other menu items.

5. When the desired menu item is displayed, press and hold in the
button. The display will then show the data for that item.

The menu items are indicated as follows:

1. Battery voltage (Pd stands for 2. Temperature in degrees Celsius.

potential difference).

3. No. of charge/discharge cycles. 4. Battery firmware version.

12

5. Battery reset.
If you press and hold the display button when Battery Reset has been
selected, it will perform a computer reset on the battery.

6.5 PAGlink Battery Reader

The PAGlink Battery Reader is an accessory that can be used to display
data stored in the battery’s microprocessor. When connected to the
battery contacts it will provide information that is beneficial for
managing your batteries, such as: number of cycles, date of manufac­ture and software version.

7. Battery Protection Features

7.1 Over-charge Protection

Charging will be inhibited if the battery voltage exceeds a pre-set
level.

7.2 Over-discharge Protection

When the battery voltage reaches 12.5V, discharging is inhibited.

7.3 Over-current Protection

If a single battery is subjected to a current greater than 8A, but less
than 15A, the output will be turned off after 5 seconds. If the
current is greater than 15A, the output will be turned off immedi­ately. In either case, the battery display will be inoperative and there
will be no voltage available at the terminals. The battery can be reset
by removing it from the load and pressing the display button.

7.4 Thermal Protection

Software protection inhibits charging if the battery temperature is
below 0°C. Return the battery to the charger when the battery
temperature rises above 0°C.

Software protection inhibits discharging if the battery temperature
falls to -20°C, or if it rises to +70°C. The output can be restored
when the battery temperature becomes within the specified range by
pressing the display button.

A thermal fuse is incorporated within the battery construction as a
‘backstop’ protection device, and this cannot be reset. In the unlikely
event of this fuse operating, please contact PAG or your dealer.

7.5 Construction

The battery cases consist of high-impact, polycarbonate injection
mouldings, designed to protect the cells from impact damage.
The circuits are conformally-coated, making them resistant to
electrolyte and ensuring the operation of the safety systems in the
event of damage to the battery.

Internal wiring is rated for high current and high temperature, and is
double-insulated for added safety and protection.

13

8. PAGlink Features

8.1 Linking Batteries:

Align the V-Mount connectors and push the battery down until you
hear a click, indicating that the lock is engaged.

14

To release the battery, hold down the release button (1) and slide the
battery up (2).

8. PAGlink Features

PAGlink V-Mount Terminals:

Front
Terminals

Rear
Terminals

Base Terminals

8.2 PAGlink batteries can be linked to combine their capacities, for

example, two 96Wh batteries provide 192Wh, and 3 offer 288Wh.
Two 150Wh batteries offer 300Wh when linked. Batteries of any rated
capacity, in any state of charge, can be linked for charge or
discharge. Linking batteries also increases the maximum continuous
current draw capability from 8A to 12A, provided they are in a similar
state of charge.

The maximum number of PAGlink batteries that may be linked has
been limited to 8. If more than 8 batteries are linked, the manage­ment system will shut-down the supply, and no current will flow.

15

8. PAGlink Features

Linked batteries form a network which allows communication between
batteries, ensuring that a safe protocol is followed under all
circumstances. The PAGlink management system elects the battery
with one or more connected to its front contacts to be the ‘master’
and ensures that this battery is always active (but not necessarily
delivering current). The system makes the most efficient use of the
energy available, and prevents a transfer of charge between batteries.

As discharge progresses, batteries are electronically added to or
subtracted from the bus bar to deliver the current required. The
status of individual batteries and total run-time can be viewed via
the battery displays. As long as the ‘master’ remains connected,
batteries may be added to or removed from the stack (hot-swapped)
in order to achieve continuous running.

NOTE: When not in use, batteries should be kept in an unlinked state
to ensure a lower self-discharge rate.

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9. Safety & Disposal

9.1 When used correctly, Lithium-Ion batteries are a rugged, safe, clean

and trouble-free method of storing power. However, the user should be
aware that incorrect treatment could present a hazard. In the interest
of safety, and the protection of our environment, please read and
observe the following health and safety information.

9.2 GENERAL:

Do not drop, puncture or crush the battery. Do not short-circuit the
battery. Do not attempt to use the battery if it has been submerged in
water. Do not continue to use the battery if there is any change in the
appearance of the casing. Do not open the battery case.

9.3 CORROSIVE ELECTROLYTE:

The electrolyte is an alkaline solution, which can cause chemical burns
to human tissue if leakage occurs. Wear protective gloves when
handling all contaminated materials. In the event of contact
with the skin, flood copiously with clean water. If significant amounts
of electrolyte are involved, or if any has touched the eyes, seek
immediate medical attention.

9.4 SEVERE DAMAGE:

PAGlink batteries incorporate several levels of internal electrical
protection, but severe mechanical abuse could result in damage to the
cells, and short-circuit internal to the battery. Li-Ion cells can deliver
power at very high rates. Arcing, excessive heat and the liberation of
combustible gas could result, with the potential for personal injury or
ignition of adjacent flammable materials.

9.5 SERVICING:

The battery case is sealed to maintain the integrity of the UN tested
build standard. Customers should not attempt to open the battery
case for repair or any other purpose.

The PAGlink V-Mount rear latching mechanism is external to the sealed
battery case and can be replaced by the user in the event of damage.
Parts and instructions can be obtained from PAG or your PAG dealer.

For any other servicing requirement please contact your nearest
authorised PAG service centre:

PAG America: T: 631 300 8215 E: [e-mail]
PAG UK: T: 020 8543 3131 E: [e-mail]

If you are located outside the US and the UK please visit

www.paguk.com/agents to discover your nearest point of contact.
Please do not attempt to return Li-Ion batteries without first
contacting a PAG service centre.

9.6 DISPOSAL:

Do not mutilate or incinerate batteries as the cells may burst and
release toxic material. Do not dispose of batteries or cells in a charged
condition. Expired batteries should be disposed of in accordance with
the appropriate regulations or legislation.

PAG offers a recycling service for its expired batteries. They can be
returned to PAG Ltd. only by prior arrangement. They must be in a
discharged state, and clearly marked ”FOR RECYCLING”.

17

10. Guarantee

10.1 Notwithstanding any provision of any agreement the following guarantee

is exclusive: PAG Limited guarantees each PAGlink battery it manufac­tures to be free of defects in material and workmanship, under normal
use and service, from the date of purchase, for the period indicated
below:

PL96 Models 9303 & 9304

PL150 Models 9308 & 9309

This guarantee extends only to the original purchaser. This guarantee
shall not apply to fuses or any product or parts which have been
subject to misuse, neglect, accident or abnormal conditions of
operation.

In the event of failure of a product covered by this guarantee, PAG
Limited will repair and calibrate equipment returned to an authorised
Service Facility within the period of the guarantee, provided the
guarantor’s examination discloses to its satisfaction the product was
defective.

The guarantor may, at its option, replace the product in lieu of repair.
With regard to any equipment returned within this period, said repairs
or replacements will be made without charge. If the failure has been
caused by misuse, neglect, accident or abnormal conditions of
operation, repairs will be billed at a nominal cost. In such a case, an
estimate will be submitted before work is started, if requested.

The foregoing guarantee is in lieu of all other guarantees, express or
implied, including but not limited to any implied guarantee or
merchantability, fitness or adequacy for any particular purpose or use.
PAG Limited shall not be liable for any special, incidental, or
consequential damages, whether in contract, tort, or otherwise.

18

11. Air Transport Regulations

11.1 All PAG Li-Ion batteries comply with the International Air Transport

Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations, January 2017,
Section 2.3.5.9, which state that Li-Ion batteries must be independ­ently tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria,
Part III, subsection 38.3, and manufactured by a company that has a
quality control programme such as ISO 9001:2008 (which PAG is
accredited).

PAGlink V-Mount Li-Ion batteries have been independently tested and
certified by Intertek Group PLC to comply with UN Standard 38.3. in
accordance with the IATA DGR.

Each PAG Li-Ion battery is labelled with the test report number
applicable to that battery design.

Models 9303 & 9304: Test Report No. 11054580
Models 9308 & 9309: Test Report No. 102617072

Copies of the test certificates and reports for each battery type can
be obtained from PAG.

11.2 Advice for Travelling by Air with Li-Ion batteries

Li-Ion batteries cannot be transported in the hold of passenger aircraft
unless attached to equipment. Spare Li-Ion batteries must be carried
in your hand luggage.

You are allowed to carry-on an unspecified quantity of UN tested
Li-Ion batteries that have capacities of 100Wh or less (as the
operator and state variations allow). In addition, you can fly with
two Li-Ion batteries that have capacities greater than 100Wh, but

less than 160Wh.

It is advisable to keep the batteries in separate plastic bags, and
you should bring a copy of the manufacturer’s UN test certificate and
report.

You cannot fly with Li-Ion batteries that have capacities greater than
160Wh. These are forbidden from passenger aircraft, unless a state

exemption has been obtained (ie CAA/FAA operator).

Since the interpretation and application of regulations may vary with
each aviation company PAG, advises that you contact the carrier prior
to travelling.

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