How to Choose a D-Tap Power Cable for Your Camera Rig
By Filmgear Canada | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to select the right D-Tap power cable for your camera rig, with decision rules for Sony FX6, Blackmagic PYXIS 6K, and USB accessories.
Quick answer
Pick a D-Tap power cable that matches your camera's voltage and connector type. For Sony FX6, choose a regulated 19.5V cable. For Blackmagic PYXIS 6K, use a D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO. For USB charging, a D-Tap to USB adapter works with any V-Mount or Gold Mount battery.
Voltage and connector compatibility come first
Not all D-Tap cables are interchangeable. Your camera or accessory expects a specific voltage and connector shape. Using the wrong cable can damage gear or simply not fit.
The Sony FX6 requires a regulated 19.5V input. A standard D-Tap output from a battery is typically 14.4V or 14.8V, so you need a cable that steps up and regulates the voltage. The SHAPE Sony FX6 D-Tap Power Cable does exactly that.
The Blackmagic PYXIS 6K uses a 2-pin LEMO-type connector. A D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO cable like the SHAPE Blackmagic PYXIS 6K D-Tap Power Cable is the direct solution.
USB power from your rig battery
If you need to charge a phone, wireless transmitter, or other USB device on set, a D-Tap to USB adapter is a lightweight add-on. The SHAPE D-Tap 11-17 V to USB 5 V and D-Tap adapter lets you pull 5V USB power while keeping a pass-through D-Tap port for other accessories.
This is not a camera power cable — it's for low-power devices only. Check the current rating of the USB output (typically 2.1A) to confirm it meets your device's needs.
Cable length and build quality matter on a rig
A cable that is too short strains connectors; one that is too long adds clutter. Measure the distance from your battery plate to the camera's power input, then add a few inches for routing.
Look for cables with strain relief at both ends and a durable jacket. SHAPE cables are designed for professional use and include reinforced connectors.
Decision rules for choosing your D-Tap power cable
- Check your camera's voltage requirement: If your camera needs 19.5V (like Sony FX6), choose a regulated D-Tap cable. If it accepts 12-17V (like most DSLR/mirrorless), a standard D-Tap to DC cable works.
- Match the connector on the camera side: Common connectors include 2-pin LEMO (Blackmagic PYXIS 6K), 4-pin XLR, Hirose, or barrel plug. Verify your camera's input before buying. If you're unsure, check the camera manual or look at the port label.
- Decide if you need USB power: A D-Tap to USB adapter adds a 5V USB port for charging phones or small accessories. It does not power the camera — keep it as a secondary cable.
- Measure cable length for your rig: Aim for a cable that reaches from battery plate to camera input with a little slack. Avoid excess length that can snag or add weight. If your rig changes often, consider a slightly longer cable and use cable ties to manage slack.
Product facts at a glance
- SHAPE Sony FX6 D-Tap Power Cable: The SHAPE Sony FX6 D-Tap Power Cable regulates voltage from a D-Tap source to the proper 19.5V required to power an FX6 camera. Without voltage regulation, a standard D-Tap battery output (14.4V) won't power the FX6 and could cause erratic behavior or shutdown.
SHAPE Sony FX6 D-Tap Power Cable - SHAPE Blackmagic PYXIS 6K D-Tap Power Cable: The SHAPE Blackmagic PYXIS 6K D-Tap Power Cable uses a D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO-type connector to power the Blackmagic PYXIS 6K from a D-Tap source. The PYXIS 6K's power input is a 2-pin LEMO, so a standard D-Tap cable won't connect — this cable bridges that gap without adapters.
Who should buy which cable
Best for
- Sony FX6 owners who need a regulated 19.5V D-Tap cable
- Blackmagic PYXIS 6K users who need a D-Tap to 2-pin LEMO cable
- Rig builders who want a USB charging port from their V-Mount or Gold Mount battery
Not for
- Cameras that accept 12-17V input via a barrel plug (choose a standard D-Tap to DC cable instead)
- Users who only need USB power and don't have a D-Tap battery plate (consider a USB power bank)
