Nanlite Battery & Control Station (V-Mount)

Nanlite FC PowerController (V-Mount) – Dual V-Mount Battery Charger and Wired Light Controller for FC Series

The Nanlite FC PowerController combines a portable V-mount power source, a dual battery charger, and a wired controller for the FC series lights. It extends the runtime and control options for the FC-300B, FC-500B and FC-500C, enabling reliable operation away from AC power while offering convenient, wired control of light settings.

What the FC PowerController does

The unit powers compatible FC fixtures from V-mount batteries and provides wired control of light settings. As a result, you can use FC-300B/500B/500C lights outdoors or anywhere without AC, and you can manage settings remotely via a dedicated control connection. This combination suits still photography and video production that require mobility and consistent, repeatable light control.

V-mount dual battery charger

The FC PowerController doubles as a portable dual charger for V-mount batteries. When you connect the included power adapter (the same adapter supplied with the FC-300B/500B/500C), the unit can charge one or two batteries simultaneously. It supports 14.4–14.8V and 26V V-mount batteries, so you can charge common battery types used with the FC series lights.

Using V-mount batteries to run lights

Connect one or two 14.4–14.8V or 26V V-mount batteries to power the FC-300B, FC-500B or FC-500C. The maximum output of each fixture depends on how many batteries you use and their voltage. For example, the FC-500C requires two 26V high-performance V-lock batteries to reach full output. Conversely, using a single 14.4V battery on the same fixture will limit output to 30%.

AC or DC operation for flexible workflows

The FC PowerController also supports AC operation. By connecting the unit to the original power adapter for an FC fixture, you can run the light from AC power. If AC is disconnected, the system can switch over to battery power, which makes quick moves around a studio or location easier and reduces downtime during shoots.

Intuitive wired control

The PowerController provides wired control of compatible fixtures at a distance of up to 3 m (9.84 ft). Simply connect the included 3 m DC connection cable with its 3.5 mm connector to the light and adjust settings from the controller. The unit features a clear two-inch display, plus two knobs and two buttons, so you can read status and change parameters quickly—even when the fixture is rigged high or out of immediate reach.

Practical and transportable design

The unit measures 130.6 × 135.5 × 204.5 mm and weighs 1.61 kg, making it easy to carry or hang on set. Nanlite designed the PowerController with an elegant in-built rope for carrying or suspending. In addition, a quick release plate on the rear lets you mount the unit on a light stand or truss when you use an optional quick-release clamp.

Efficient heat dissipation and quiet operation

The FC PowerController uses a rugged aluminum alloy body and three aluminum alloy heat sinks to manage thermal load. It also includes a built-in fan that runs quietly while actively dissipating heat. This design helps maintain stable operation and supports better audio recording conditions on set by minimizing fan noise.

Kit contents

• FC PowerController × 1
• 3M DC Connection Cable with 3.5mm Connector × 1
• User Manual × 1

Key features

• Two-inch screen with two buttons and two knobs for straightforward control and status display.
• Compact dimensions of 130.6 × 135.5 × 204.5 mm and a lightweight design at 1.61 kg for easy transport and rigging.
• Dual V-mount battery charging capability and the ability to power FC-300B/500B/500C fixtures from V-mount batteries.
• Wired control range up to 3 m (9.84 ft) using the included DC connection cable.
• Aluminum alloy construction with three heat sinks and a quiet built-in fan for effective heat dissipation.

Specifications

FAQ

Question: Can I power my FC-500C from V-mount batteries with this unit?
Answer: Yes. The FC PowerController allows the FC-300B, FC-500B and FC-500C to run from V-mount batteries. Note that fixture output depends on battery count and voltage—for full output on the FC-500C you need two 26V V-lock batteries.

Question: Can the unit charge batteries while I use it on location?
Answer: Yes. When connected to AC with the FC power adapter, the FC PowerController can charge one or two V-mount batteries and also operate as a power source for fixtures when required.

Question: How do I control lights remotely on set?
Answer: Use the included 3 m DC cable to connect the PowerController to your FC fixture. The unit provides wired control up to 3 m, with a two-inch display, two knobs and two buttons for quick adjustments even when the light is rigged high.

Question: How can I mount or carry the PowerController on set?
Answer: The PowerController is compact and lightweight for easy carrying. It includes an elegant in-built rope for hanging and a quick release plate on the rear, which lets you mount it to a light stand or truss using an optional quick-release clamp.

Question: Is the fan noisy during recording?
Answer: The unit features a built-in fan described as running quietly. It works together with three aluminum heat sinks and the aluminum alloy body to dissipate heat while maintaining conditions suitable for audio recording on set.