PAG Mini PAGlink MPL50 User manual

Intelligent Linking Batteries
User Guide
S10053

PAG Ltd.
565 Kingston Road
London SW20 8SA
United Kingdom
E: [email protected]
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.
Patents Apply: paguk.com/patents
Copyright © 2021 PAG Ltd. All rights reserved

A User Guide for Mini PAGlink V-Mount
Intelligent Linking Batteries.
Please read the important safety information and
instructions before using your battery.
3
Section Page
1 Introduction 4
2 Specification 5
3 Charging 6
4 Discharging 9
5 Storage 11
6 Battery Linking Features 12
7 Run-Time, Capacity & Data Display 14
8 Battery Outputs 16
9 Battery Protection Features 17
10 Safety Information 18
11 Servicing 19
12 Recycling 21
13 Guarantee 22
14 Air Transport 23
Contents

1.1 Models covered by these instructions:
Model No. Name Capacity Mount
8141 MPL50 50Wh V-Mount
8241 MPL99 99Wh V-Mount
1.2 Mini PAGlink V-Mount batteries are designed to be compatible
with the Sony V-Mount battery plate.
1.3 They feature all the benefits of PAGlink intelligent linking technology
combined with a reduced form factor and increased durability.
1.4 They are available in 2 flight-friendly capacities: 50Wh and 99Wh.
Batteries can be linked to create greater capacities on location,
allowing you to travel with all the power you need.
1.5 The unique PAGlink technology allows up to 10 batteries to be linked
for charge or discharge, regardless of their rated capacity or their
state-of-charge. The MPL50V and MPL99V can be linked with each
other for charge or discharge.
1.6 The batteries can be used as a single power source for smaller
camcorders and their accessories. In this application they replace a
multitude of incompatible batteries. However, they can also be used
to power larger cameras and other production equipment, such as
monitors.
1. Introduction
Battery Lock
& Release
Button
PAGlink
Contacts
D-Tap Output
1/4” Bush
Display
Button
Display
1/4” Bush
USB (2A)
Output
Unit
MPL50 Front
4

5
1. Introduction
1.7 The batteries feature built-in D-Tap outputs (12V) and a replaceable
USB output unit (5V 2A) that can be swapped for Lemo, Hirose or
D-Tap output units, already available for the PAG PowerHub (Gold
Mount version, Model 9712).
1.8 These smaller, lighter batteries allow you to control the capacity and
weight of your power source to suit the application: 1 battery is ideal
for handheld applications, 2 or more linked batteries provide longer
run-time or an increased current draw of up to 12A, ideal for
powering multiple accessories. Current is delivered using superior,
high-current pin contacts.
1.9 PAGlink allows seamless hot-swapping for continuous power, or the
ability to add another battery just to keep shooting, which means no
more time-wasting camera reboots.
1.10 Simultaneous discharge from linked batteries means no dead weight
on your camera. Sharing the current load extends overall battery life
to provide a better return on investment. Both the MPL50 and MPL99
batteries are guaranteed for 2 years.
1.11 The PAGlink technology 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.
1.12 The intelligent PAGlink batteries manage their own charging safely
and efficiently, and can be charged, whilst linked, using PAGlink
Main
Battery
Contacts
MPL50 Back
USB (2A)
Output
Unit
Output Unit
Release Slider

chargers, as well as other reputable manufacturer’s V-Mount Li-Ion
chargers, for maximum versatility and economic integration.
1.13 Batteries in any state of charge can be linked for charging, in
multiples of 10 or fewer. During charging, the least-charged batteries
are given priority. When the batteries reach a similar state of charge,
they will charge simultaneously. The charge status of each battery is
shown on its individual display.
1.14 The batteries feature an ergonomic design and a ‘soft-touch’ coated
protective band for safer handling and increased durability.
1.15 1/4” bush inserts have been incorporated to enable the mounting
of accessories to individual or linked batteries.
1.16 The battery display provides remaining run-time, on-load, in 1 minute
increments, for the total of all linked batteries. It shows remaining
capacity for each individual battery in 1% increments, at any time.
It also provides useful data, such as the number of charge/discharge
cycles, to assist with battery management.
1.17 When linked, Mini PAGlink batteries form a network that allows them
to communicate with each other and report to the camera as one
battery.
1.18 They will automatically detect and adapt to camera data systems
that allow batteries to provide capacity information in the
viewfinder/LCD.
1. Introduction
1.19 The batteries feature a fully-serviceable, modular construction that
allows authorised replacement of the cell-pack whilst maintaining
conformity with UN standards and IATA air transport regulations.
The battery cases and internal electronics can be reused in the
interest of greater sustainability.
1.20 The battery firmware can be updated easily by the customer, via
external contacts, using an update tool provided by PAG.
1.21 PAG’s patented intelligent battery linking technology remains far in
advance of any other camera battery system available today.
1.22 PAG Li-Ion batteries are tested by Intertek Group plc to UN 38.3
standard in compliance with IATA Air Transport regulations.
Patents Apply: paguk.com/patents
6

2.1 Cell Technology:
Premium-grade Lithium-Ion sealed rechargeable cylindrical cells.
2.2 Capacity:
Model 8141: 50 Watt-hours (nominal 3.5 Ampere-hours).
Model 8241: 99 Watt-hours (nominal 6.7 Ampere-hours).
2.3 Voltage:
14.8V nominal.
2.4 Output Current:
The rated maximum continuous output current for an individual 50Wh
battery is 8A, and for a 99Wh battery it is 10A. Two or more linked
batteries of any rated capacity, in a similar state of charge, will
deliver an increased continuous current of up to 12A.
2.5 Fixed D-Tap Outputs:
12V (unregulated), designed for powering camera accessories.
Model 8141 MPL50G features 1 built-in D-Tap output.
Model 8241 MPL99G features 2 built-in D-Tap outputs.
2.6 Removable USB Output:
Each battery incorporates 1 removable USB output unit, 5V regulated,
2A continuous, 3A peak. The unit can be removed and replaced with a
Hirose (4-pin), Lemo (2-pin), D-Tap or a 2.1mm DC output unit. These
are available individually from PAG or its resellers. They are the same
2. Specification
interchangeable output units available for the Gold Mount PAGlink
PowerHub Model 9712.
2.7 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 +30°C (+50°F to +86°F).
2.8 Overall Dimensions (L x W x H):
Model 8141 MPL50V: 109mm (4.3”) x 87mm (3.4”) x 31mm (1.2”)
Model 8241 MPL99V: 109mm (4.3”) x 87mm (3.4”) x 50mm (2.0”)
2.9 Weight:
Model 8141 MPL50V: 360g (12.7oz) approx.
Model 8241 MPL99V: 590g (21oz) approx.
7

3.5 Charge Times: From fully-discharged to fully-charged:
3.6 Mini PAGlink batteries display their individual status during charging
on their built-in display.
3.7 The batteries incorporate a temperature sensor which will inhibit
charging if their temperature is below 0°C. See Specification for
the charging temperature range.
3. Charging
3.1 IMPORTANT: READ THE CHARGER HANDBOOK BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
CHARGE THE BATTERY.
3.2 NOTE: The battery is put into ‘ship mode’ prior to transit.
It can be activated by connecting it to a charger that is powered-
up, or by linking it to a battery that is already active.
3.3 Mini PAGlink batteries can be charged individually or linked, regardless
of their capacity or state of charge.
3.4 The least-charged batteries are given priority until all the batteries are
in a similar state-of-charge. They will then be fully-charged simulta-
neously. Up to 10 batteries can be linked for charging on each
position. The following PAGlink chargers can be used:
9707 PAGlink PL16 Charger 2-positions, 10 batteries on each
9711 PAGlink PL16+ Charger 4-positions, 10 batteries on each
9713V PAGlink Micro Charger 1-position, 10 batteries in total
V-Mount Li-Ion Chargers of other reputable manufacturers may also be
suitable. The number of linked batteries that can be charged on each
position is dependent on the charger model and firmware version.
Capacity PL16 Micro Charger
50Wh 01:15 02:00
100Wh 01:30 04:00
200Wh 03:00 08:00
300Wh 04:45 12:00
400Wh 06:00 16:00
600Wh 09:00 24:00
800Wh 12:00 -
1600Wh 24:00 -
8

4. Discharging
4.1 Mini PAGlink batteries can be discharged individually or linked.
The batteries can be in any state of charge. The maximum number of
PAGlink batteries that may be linked has been limited to 10. If more
than 10 batteries are linked, the management system will shut-down
the supply, and no current will flow.
4.2 Linking batteries for discharge provides a number of benefits.
The combined capacity extends the run-time of your camera set-up.
Two linked 50Wh batteries will provide 100Wh; a 50Wh and a 99Wh
battery linked will provide 149Wh; two 99Wh batteries will provide
198Wh.
Where total continuous consumption is above 8A, two or more
batteries, of any rated capacity, should be linked. This will increase
the maximum continuous discharge current to 12A, provided the
batteries are in a similar state of charge. Sharing the current load
across multiple batteries prolongs individual battery life and provides
a better return on investment.
4.3 Linked batteries form a network which allows communication between
batteries, ensuring that a safe protocol is followed under all circum-
stances.
4.4 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 power 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 linked batteries
discharge simultaneously rather than sequentially. Their individual
state of charge and the total run-time can be viewed via their
displays. As long as the ‘master’ remains connected, batteries may be
added or hot-swapped in order to achieve continuous running.
4.5 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.
4.6 The batteries incorporate a current limit of 8A for an individual
50Wh battery, 10A for an individual 99Wh battery, and 12A for linked
batteries of any rated capacity. Consumption above this for more than
5 seconds will trigger the over-current protection, turning the battery
output off. It can be recovered by simply removing it from the load
and pressing the display button, provided the battery still retains
some charge.
4.7 The batteries 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.
9

4. Discharging
4.8 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.
4.9 When not in use, batteries should be kept in an unlinked state to
ensure a lower self-discharge rate.
10

5. Storage
5.1 For the short term, 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
(between 20% and 80%), and not linked.
5.3 After a long period of inactivity, a Mini PAGlink battery will auto-
matically enter Ship Mode, which greatly reduces its rate of self-
discharge. It can be reactivated by connecting it to a charger that is
powered-up, or by linking it to a battery that is already active.
5.4 Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place at a temperature
between +10°C and +30°C (+50°F to +86°F). Long-term storage
outside of this temperature range may reduce the batteries’ life.
Maintenance charging is not required during long term storage.
5.5 After storage it is advisable to fully-charge batteries before use.
11

6. Battery Linking Features
To unlink batteries, grip the rear battery firmly, hold-in the front
battery’s red locking/release button, then pull the front battery up
and away.
6.1 Linking Batteries:
To link batteries, align the V-shaped connector on the rear of a
battery with the V slot on the front of another. Slide the front
battery down until you hear a click and the battery’s red locking
release button, on the left side, pops out.
12
RED BUTTON OUT INDICATES
BATTERIES ARE LOCKED
TO UNLINK,
HOLD-IN
THE RED
RELEASE
BUTTON...
... & PULL
THE FRONT
BATTERY UP

6. Battery Linking Features
6.2 Mini PAGlink batteries can be discharged and charged individually or
linked, combining their capacities. Two 50Wh batteries will provide
100Wh when linked; a 50Wh and a 99Wh battery will provide 149Wh.
Linking batteries increases the maximum continuous current draw
capability to 12A, provided the batteries linked are in a similar state
of charge. See Specification for the batteries’ individual current draw
capability.
The maximum number of PAGlink batteries that may be linked has
been limited to 10. If more than 10 batteries are linked, the
management system will shut-down the supply, and no current will
flow.
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.
OUTPUT
BUS BAR
13
REAR
BATTERY
BECOMES
MASTER AND
CONTROLS
OUTPUT
DIGITAL BATTERY
COMMUNICATION
COMMUNICATION
INDICATION
BUTTON OUT
INDICATES
BATTERIES
ARE LOCKED

7. Run-Time, Capacity & Data Display
7.1 The Battery Display:
The battery is able to display a numeric run-time prediction against
load, and charge status as a percentage.
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.
A single button press of the display, 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.
When individual battery capacity drops below
5% the display will indicate that the battery
should be charged, as shown.
When the battery is fully charged the display
will indicate 100%.
7.2 Display Data Output:
Data stored in the battery’s microprocessor can be revealed using the
battery display:
Press display button
x3 in 1 sec intervals &
hold for data mode
Release to see 1st
menu item: ‘Pd’
(voltage)
Press & hold for
3 seconds to see
voltage reading
Press without holding
for 2nd menu item
Press & hold for temp-
erature in degrees
celsius
Press twice
without holding
for 3rd menu item
Press & hold for
number of charge/
discharge cycles
14

7. Run-Time, Capacity & Data Display
Press x3 without
holding for software
version
Press & hold for
version number...
...which appears in
2 parts indicating
version 2.0
After selecting to view the software version number, the battery will
enter Ship Mode automatically. Ship Mode reduces battery self-
discharge and can be used when you are going to store or ship your
batteries. To exit Ship Mode, link the battery to another active battery
or connect it to a charger that is powered-up.
7.3 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
Gold Mount batteries automatically adjust the data output standard to
support the system that allows Anton Bauer batteries to display
capacity information in the viewfinder/LCD. When the batteries are
linked, the data displayed is for the combined capacity available.
15

8. Battery Outputs
8.1 Mini PAGlink batteries feature built-in D-Tap outputs (unregulated)
designed for powering 12V camera accessories. They also incorporate
a USB output unit, regulated at 5V (2A), which is interchangeable
with other output unit types: Hirose (4-pin), Lemo (2-pin) & D-Tap.
To remove the USB output unit, push the release slider on the rear of
the battery to the left. When the unit is protruding from the battery
case it can be pulled-out easily. To fit a different output unit type,
align the locator at the top of the output unit with locator in the
port, and push-in the unit until a click indicates that it is secured.
REAR OF BATTERY
Hirose (4-pin)
Model 9712H
D-Tap
Model 9712D
Lemo (2-pin)
Model 9712L
USB (5V 2A)
Model 9712U
8.2 Output Units for Mini PAGlink batteries:
16
OUTPUT
UNIT
SLIDE
LEFT

17
9. Battery Protection Features
9.1 Over-Charge Protection
Charging will be inhibited if the battery voltage exceeds a pre-set
level.
9.2 Over-Discharge Protection
When the battery voltage reaches 12.5V, discharging is inhibited.
9.3 Over-Current Protection
If a single 50Wh battery is subjected to a current greater than 8A
(10A for a 99Wh battery), 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.
9.4 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 PAG reseller.
9.5 Construction
The battery cases consist of high-impact ABS injection mouldings,
designed to protect the cells from impact damage. The battery has
been drop-tested.
The circuits are coated, making them resistant to electrolyte and
ensuring the operation of the electronic 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.

10. Safety Information
10.1 PLEASE READ THESE IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
USING THE BATTERY AND RETAIN THEM FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
When used correctly, Lithium-Ion batteries are a rugged and safe
method of storing power. However, incorrect treatment of the battery
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.
WARNING:
Do not drop, throw, puncture, crush or incinerate the battery. Severe
mechanical abuse of the battery 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.
Do not short-circuit the battery.
Keep the battery away from fires, strong sunlight and excessively
hot environments.
Avoid getting the battery wet and do not use it if it has been
immersed in water.
Do not attempt to disassemble the battery. Refer faults to authorised
service personnel.
Do not continue to use the battery if there is any change in the
appearance of the casing.
CAUTION:
The battery electrolyte is an alkaline solution, which can cause
chemical burns to human tissue. Leakage can occur as a result of
severe damage to the battery. 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.
ELECTRIC SHOCK: This symbol appears where the informa-
tion relates to the risk of electric shock.
WARNING: This symbol appears where the information
relates to an issue of personal safety.
18

19
11. Servicing
11.1 The front and the rear battery contact assemblies are separate to the
battery case and can be replaced by customers in the event of
damage. Parts and instructions can be obtained from PAG Ltd. or from
an authorised PAG Service Centre (listed at the end of this section).
11.2 Customers should not attempt to open the battery case for repair or
any other purpose. Unauthorised servicing invalidates the battery
guarantee and its air safety status (IATA).
If a fault develops, please contact your nearest PAG Service Centre to
receive a fault diagnosis, which can be carried out over the phone,
via a video call or via email.
Batteries that require further analysis must be returned to your
nearest PAG Service Centre. Li-Ion batteries are classified as
dangerous goods and cannot be returned without prior contact.
Please provide the serial numbers of the batteries you are returning
for servicing in advance.
For an initial period, a Mini PAGlink battery may need to be returned
to the UK Service Department for repair. After investigation, it will be
classified as either: a warranty repair (WR), a chargeable repair (CR),
or beyond economic repair (BER). This will be communicated to the
customer in a service report, along with an estimate of the cost of
repair, before any work is undertaken.
It is PAG's policy to repair its batteries, in keeping with ‘the right to
repair’, unless it is uneconomic for the customer to do so. Circum-
stances that make a battery beyond economic repair include physical
damage to the cells or a combination of low battery capacity and a
damaged case. In these circumstances the cost of the repair would be
better put towards a new battery.
If the battery is BER and you would like it returned, you must
communicate this to the PAG Service Centre. If possible, batteries
should be marked with a sticker that says “to be returned to the
customer” before they are sent for servicing.
If the battery is BER and there is no indication that it should be
returned, PAG will ask the customer when it submits the servicing
report.
If PAG does not receive instruction from the customer after 6 months
from the date of the report, the battery will be sent for recycling.
Please be aware that PAG is only able to return batteries that are
legally safe for shipping. Batteries that have damaged cases as a
result of being dropped, water-damaged batteries and batteries that
have damaged cells cannot be returned.
Authorised PAG Service Centres:
Europe & Middle East:
Aspectra B.V.
Spoorhaven 78, 2651 AV, Berkel en Rodenrijs, Netherlands
Tel: [phone]
Email: inf[email protected]

20
UK & RoW: PAG Ltd.
565 Kingston Road, Raynes Park, London SW20 8SA, UK
Tel: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
The Americas:
PAG America (a division of the Carr Distribution Group)
18 Center Street, Ramsey, NJ 07446, USA
Tel: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
11. Servicing