Arsenal 1 Battery and Hardware Overview

Hardware, Battery Life, Connectivity, Device Temperature, Storage

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Written by Arsenal
Updated over a week ago

Your Arsenal device is a sophisticated, miniature computer. It is capable of:

  • Controlling supported DSLR and mirrorless cameras

  • Reading JPEG and RAW image files from your camera

  • Communicating with compatible iOS and Android phones

Connectivity

Arsenal has two micro-USB ports, which perform different functions:

  • The left USB port communicates with supported cameras using an included USB camera cable. This cable is camera model-specific since it must fit your camera’s USB port.

  • The right USB port is for battery charging only.

  • A note regarding these USB ports: Never force a plug into a port, because this may cause damage. If the plug and port don't join with reasonable ease, they probably don't match or the plug is backwards. Check for obstructions, make sure that the plug matches the port, and confirm you have positioned the plug correctly in relation to the port.

Arsenal uses a WiFi chip to create its own WiFi Network for communication with supported mobile devices.

Arsenal also contains a Bluetooth chip for potential future functionality. Arsenal has not yet been certified for Bluetooth connectivity, and the chip is currently disabled in all devices.

Device Temperature

Arsenal is designed to work in ambient temperatures between 32° and 95° F (0° and 35° C). Arsenal can be damaged and battery life shortened if operated outside of these temperature ranges. Avoid exposing Arsenal to dramatic changes in temperature or humidity.

When using Arsenal or charging the battery, it will get warm. You will notice that your device feels warmer in these situations:

  • When you set up your device the first time.

  • Performing CPU/GPU intensive image processing tasks, such as Focus Stacking.

  • Transferring a large number of photographs between your Camera and Arsenal.

  • Transferring a large number of photographs between Arsenal and your Phone.

  • Charging the battery.

These conditions are normal, and Arsenal will return to a normal operating temperature when complete.

If the interior temperature of Arsenal exceeds the normal operating range, it will protect its internal components by attempting to regulate its temperature. If this happens, you might notice these changes:

  • Image processing tasks take longer to complete.

  • Transfer rates between your Camera and Arsenal decrease.

  • Transfer rates between Arsenal and your phone decrease.

  • Charging rate decreases.

The performance will automatically return to normal when Arsenal returns to a normal operating temperature.

Battery Charging

Arsenal’s internal battery can be charged using the included micro-USB charging cable and any standard USB power source.

To charge Arsenal’s battery, connect the charging cable to the USB port on the right side of your Arsenal. Plugging your charging cable into the left side will not harm the device, but it will not charge.

When Arsenal is charging, the orange charging light will illuminate. When the light turns off, charging is complete.

Battery Life

Arsenal’s battery life depends on several factors, including shooting mode, level of usage, ambient temperature, and advanced settings (e.g. photo stacking uses more battery life when enabled).

In most situations, you can expect a battery life of 4-5 hours. For extended shooting or photography in remote locations, we strongly recommend bringing a charging cable and a USB battery pack (not included) to keep Arsenal charged while in use.

Battery Lifespan & Care

With proper care, Arsenal’s battery will last for many years. For most people, Arsenal will also be charged less frequently than a cell phone, reducing wear and tear.

To maintain Arsenal’s battery and maximize your shooting time, we recommend charging Arsenal before and after each day of shooting. Be sure to fully charge Arsenal before storing it for a long period of unuse.

Temperatures above 113° F (45° C) can damage Arsenal’s battery. Never store Arsenal in a hot car or on a surface that is too hot to touch. Avoid charging your Arsenal in direct sunlight.

Arsenal’s battery is not user-replaceable. (We explored this option extensively, and unfortunately making the battery replaceable would significantly increase the size and cost of the device.) Attempting to remove or replace the battery will void your warranty. If you experience a dramatically shortened battery life under normal usage, please contact our support team.

Storage Instructions

When not in use, Arsenal should be stored in a place that ensures it is protected from moisture, excessive force, and extreme temperatures. Store Arsenal where the temperature is between -4° and 113° F (-20° and 45° C). Arsenal can be damaged and battery life shortened if stored outside of these temperature ranges. Do not leave Arsenal in your car, because temperatures in parked cars can exceed this range.

Cleaning Procedure

From time to time, Arsenal may require cleaning to remove dirt, grease, moisture, etc. To clean:

  • Power Arsenal Off and disconnect all accessories.

  • Gently wipe the surface of Arsenal using a soft, lint-free cloth moistened with a very small amount of water. Allow Arsenal to dry completely before use.

Warnings

To prevent electric shock or damage to components, do not attempt to use your Arsenal if it is wet.

To prevent the possibility for fire, do not attempt to use your Arsenal if the enclosure has been crushed and the battery has been damaged.

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