BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 5 LiFePO4 USB-C Dash Cam Battery Pack
The BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 5 is a compact dash cam battery pack built for parking mode protection without draining your vehicle battery. It uses safe LiFePO4 battery technology, supports fast recharging, and adds USB-C output for mobile devices.
It is the better fit when you want a smaller battery pack than the PowerCell 8, but still want reliable everyday parking mode for a dash cam, commuter vehicle, rideshare setup, or compact installation.
Parking mode power without draining your car battery
The PowerCell 5 powers your dash cam in parking mode from its own LiFePO4 battery, not your vehicle battery. With 51.2 Wh of capacity, it can run a standard 2-channel dash cam for up to 16 hours or a single-channel unit for over 30 hours, depending on the camera and settings.
This matters most when your vehicle sits at work, overnight, in a garage, or in a public lot. Your parking mode dash cam can keep recording motion, impacts, or incidents without leaving you with a dead starter battery.

Fast charging by hardwire or 12V socket
The PowerCell 5 can fully charge in about 33 minutes when hardwired, or about 65 minutes through a 12V cigarette lighter socket. That gives commuters meaningful parking mode runtime without needing a long daily drive.
For the fastest, cleanest setup, use the included hardwire input cable with a proper fuse-box connection. For a simpler setup, use the 12V plug-in input cable. If you are not sure which install path fits your vehicle, start with our Dash Cam Installation Hub and hardwiring guide.

USB-C power for more than your dash cam
The PowerCell 5 doubles as a vehicle power station with two USB-A ports and one 45W USB-C port. You can power your dash cam while also charging a phone, tablet, or compatible laptop from the same compact battery pack.
That makes it useful for rideshare drivers, road trips, work vehicles, and anyone who wants more in-car power without relying on cheap USB battery banks. Unlike a basic hardwire kit, the PowerCell 5 adds dedicated parking mode protection and everyday charging utility.

Safer LiFePO4 chemistry for vehicle use
LiFePO4 battery chemistry is more thermally stable than standard lithium-ion chemistry, making it a better fit for vehicle interiors. The PowerCell 5 is built for repeated charge cycles, steady voltage output, and safer everyday use in changing temperatures.
It is rated for operation from -10°C to 60°C and charging from 0°C to 45°C. That gives you a safer, purpose-built alternative to using a generic power bank for a 12V dash cam setup.

Compact enough for a clean hidden install
The PowerCell 5 is a compact dash cam battery pack designed to tuck under a seat, inside a glove box, or in another discreet cabin location. Its slim metal body keeps the install clean while still giving you dedicated power for parking mode.
It works with major dash cam brands, including BlackVue, Thinkware, and VIOFO. If you need longer parking duration or Bluetooth app monitoring, step up to the BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 8.

Built for 12V to 15V vehicle systems
The PowerCell 5 is designed for 12V to 15V vehicle electrical systems only. It is not compatible with 24V systems found in many heavy-duty trucks, semi-trailers, buses, or commercial machines unless a proper voltage step-down solution is used first.
Connecting the PowerCell 5 directly to a 24V system can damage the battery pack and void the warranty. If you are working on a commercial vehicle, confirm the electrical system before installation.

What's Included
- BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 5 Battery Pack
- Unspliced Output Cable with Integrated Hardwire Input
- Socket Output Cable with Integrated Hardwire Input
- Cigarette Socket Input Cable (12V Power Cable)
- Crimp Sleeves (3x)
- One of each Add-A-Fuse for battery packs: ATO (20A), Low Profile (20A), Micro2 (20A), Mini (20A)
- Velcro Strips (2x)
- User Manual
- 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Specifications
| Battery Capacity | 12.8V / 51.2 Wh / 4,000 mAh |
| Battery Type | LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) |
| Charging Time | 65 minutes at 4A, 33 minutes at 8A |
| Input Voltage | 11.5V to 15V / 8A Max |
| Output Voltage | 12V to 14.2V / 3A Max |
| Display | Built-in LCD / LED emergency light |
| Dimensions | 8.7 cm x 16 cm x 3.8 cm |
| Weight | 0.75 kg |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) |
| Charging Temperature | 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F) |
| USB Output | 2x USB-A ports (15W Max), 1x USB-C port (45W Max) |
| Included Add-A-Fuses | ATO (20A), Low Profile (20A), Micro2 (20A), and Mini (20A) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the PowerCell 5 and PowerCell 8?
The PowerCell 8 has a larger capacity and Bluetooth app monitoring, while the PowerCell 5 is smaller and adds USB-C output for charging devices. Choose the PowerCell 5 for a compact, lower-cost setup, or the PowerCell 8 when longer parking mode runtime matters more.
Will the PowerCell 5 work with my dash cam?
Yes. The PowerCell 5 works with most 12V dash cams, including BlackVue, Thinkware, and VIOFO models. It becomes the parking mode power source instead of your vehicle battery.
How long can the PowerCell 5 power a dash cam?
The PowerCell 5 can power a standard 2-channel dash cam for up to 16 hours or a single-channel dash cam for over 30 hours. Actual runtime depends on the camera model, number of channels, recording mode, and power draw.
How do I install the PowerCell 5?
You can plug it into a 12V cigarette lighter socket for a simpler setup, or hardwire it to the fuse box for faster charging and a cleaner installation. For hardwire installs, use the included 20A add-a-fuses and confirm the circuit with a tester.
Can I chain an expansion battery to the PowerCell 5?
No. The PowerCell 5 is a standalone battery pack and does not support an expansion battery. If you need longer runtime, choose the PowerCell 8 or another higher-capacity battery pack.
Does the PowerCell 5 have Bluetooth or an app?
No. Battery status is checked using the built-in LCD and LED indicators on the unit. If you want Bluetooth app monitoring, choose the PowerCell 8 instead.
Can I install the PowerCell 5 in a 24V vehicle?
No. The PowerCell 5 is designed for 12V to 15V systems only. Using it directly with a 24V system can damage the battery pack and void the warranty.
Resources
- Choosing the Right Output Cable for Your Battery Pack
- Do I need a Dash Cam Expansion Pack?
- Other Ways to Use Your Dash Cam Battery Pack
- Dedicated Dash Cam Battery Pack vs. USB Power Bank
- Getting a Dash Cam for Your EV?
- Can I use a dash cam for my EV?
- BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 5 Dash Cam Battery Pack User Manual
- Subscribe to BlackboxMyCar on YouTube