How to Use a D-Tap to LP-E6NH Dummy Battery Cable

By B&C Camera | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to safely set up and use a D-Tap to LP-E6NH dummy battery cable for extended camera power. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.

Quick answer

Connect the LP-E6NH dummy battery into your camera's battery compartment, then plug the D-Tap connector into a compatible D-Tap power source. This setup lets you run your Canon camera for hours without swapping batteries.

Why use a dummy battery instead of standard batteries?

Standard LP-E6NH batteries typically last 1-2 hours of continuous recording. A D-Tap dummy battery cable lets you draw power from a larger external battery, V-mount plate, or studio supply—ideal for long interviews, livestreams, or time-lapses. The trade-off is that you lose portability: your camera becomes tethered to a power source, so this setup works best on a tripod or rig.

Choosing the right D-Tap power source

Not all D-Tap sources are created equal. The SmallRig D-Tap to LP-E6NH cable expects 7.8 to 8.4V output, matching the voltage of a standard LP-E6NH battery. If your external battery or power supply outputs a different voltage, you risk damaging the camera or triggering error messages. Always check the output voltage of your D-Tap source before connecting.

Step-by-step setup guide

1. Confirm voltage compatibility: Check that your D-Tap power source outputs between 7.8V and 8.4V. Using a source outside this range can damage the camera or cause erratic behavior. If you're unsure of the voltage, use a multimeter to verify before connecting.
2. Insert the dummy battery into the camera: Open the battery compartment and slide the LP-E6NH dummy battery in the same orientation as a standard battery. Route the cable through the provided slot or gap in the compartment door so you can close it securely. Forcing the door shut on a pinched cable can damage the connector—always use the designated cable channel.
3. Connect the D-Tap connector to your power source: Push the right-angle male D-Tap plug firmly into the female D-Tap port on your battery or power supply. A loose connection can cause intermittent power loss. If the connector feels loose, check that the D-Tap port is clean and free of debris.
4. Power on and verify camera operation: Turn on the camera. You should see the battery indicator showing full or near-full charge without any compatibility warnings. Record a short clip to confirm stable power delivery. If you see a battery error or the camera shuts off immediately, disconnect and recheck voltage and connections.
5. Secure cables to avoid accidental disconnection: Use a cable clamp or velcro strap to fasten the D-Tap cable to your rig or tripod leg. This prevents the connector from being yanked out if you or someone else trips over the wire. A strain relief loop near the camera body adds an extra layer of protection against port damage.

Product fact

SmallRig D-Tap to LP-E6NH Dummy Battery Power Cable: The SmallRig D-Tap to Canon LP-E6NH dummy battery cable features an upgraded chip for full decoding and 7.8 to 8.4V output, ensuring seamless operation without pop-up alerts. This means you won't see the annoying 'this battery is not compatible' warning on your Canon camera, and the camera will accurately report remaining power from your external source.
SmallRig D-Tap to LP-E6NH Dummy Battery Power Cable