Charging Your Lumix Waterproof Camera: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you want to charge your Lumix waterproof camera, you'll first need to check your specific model to ensure you're using the correct charging method. The Lumix DMC-TS1, DMC-TS2, DMC-TS3 and DMC-TS4, for example, use the Panasonic Quick Charger DE-A59, DE-A60, or DE-A60B.

Once you have the correct charger, you can simply insert the battery and plug it into a power outlet. You can also charge via a computer or laptop, or use a solar charger or power bank if you're in a pinch.

Charging with a USB cable

To charge your Lumix camera with a USB cable, you will first need to check that your Lumix model supports USB charging.

If your Lumix camera does support USB charging, you will need to purchase or borrow a USB cable. For fast charging, a C-type cable is required. If you are using a LUMIX FZ1000 or another modern camera, you will need a C-type cable. For older models, such as the Lumix DMC-LZ20K, a B-type cable will be needed.

Once you have the correct USB cable, you can use any desired power source, such as a generator, or a laptop or power bank if you are in a location without electricity.

To charge your camera, simply connect it to the power source using the USB cable. Ensure that your camera is turned off before charging. The charging time will depend on the power source and charger used, but it typically takes a few hours to fully charge a Lumix camera battery.

It is important to only use genuine Panasonic batteries and chargers to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential damage to your equipment. Additionally, always refer to the user manual for specific instructions on charging your Lumix camera battery.

Charging with a computer

Charging your Lumix camera with a computer is a convenient option when you don't have access to a power outlet. Here's a detailed guide on how to charge your Lumix waterproof camera using a computer:

Step 1: Check USB Type and Compatibility

Before you begin, ensure your Lumix camera supports USB charging. While most modern Lumix cameras have this feature, some older models like the Lumix DMC-LZ20K might not. If you own one of the newer models, such as the Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 1 or Panasonic Lumix G100, you're in luck! These cameras offer USB charging capabilities. Additionally, check the USB Type—C-Type is for fast charging, while older models might use B-Type.

Step 2: Prepare the Camera

Turn off your camera before charging. This is important for safety and to ensure efficient charging.

Step 3: Connect the Camera to the Computer

Use the appropriate USB cable to connect your camera to the computer. Plug one end of the USB cable into the camera, and the other end into one of the computer's USB ports.

Step 4: Allow Charging

On your computer, select the "power only" mode. Do not select the "Data Transfer" option. Your camera should now be charging via the computer.

Step 5: Safe Removal

Once the camera is fully charged, go to your computer's settings and select the "Safely Remove Hardware" mode before disconnecting the USB cable. This ensures that the charging process is completed safely and helps prevent any data loss or corruption.

Please note that charging your Lumix camera via a computer might take longer than using a dedicated power outlet. Additionally, always use the USB cable supplied with your camera or a genuine Panasonic USB cable to ensure compatibility and safety.

Charging with a phone charger

You can charge your Lumix camera battery using a phone charger, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure your Lumix supports USB charging. Most modern Lumix cameras have this function, but there are a few models that don't. If your Lumix supports USB charging, you'll need to purchase or borrow a USB cable. Get a C-type cable for LUMIX FZ1000 and other modern cameras, or a B-type cable for the Lumix DMC-LZ20K and other older models.

Once you have the right cable, you can use any desired power source, such as a generator if you're in an area without electricity. When using a phone charger, make sure it meets the following criteria:

• For iOS chargers, you'll need at least a 30-watt charger for iPhone, although 20-watt will also work.
• For Android chargers, a 40-watt charger will give you fast charging, but a 15-watt charger will also work for slower charging.
• In all cases, 5 volts are required.

After plugging in your charger, check that it's not getting too hot, as this can be a sign of exhaustion.

It's important to note that charging times will vary depending on your power source and charger. It may take up to several hours to fully charge your Lumix camera battery, so be patient.

Finally, always refer to the user manual for specific instructions on charging your Lumix camera battery, as using the correct charger is important to avoid damaging your equipment.

Charging with a solar charger/power bank

Charging your Lumix camera with a solar charger/power bank is a great option when you're travelling or don't have access to a conventional power outlet. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do it:

First, check that your Lumix camera supports USB charging. Most modern Lumix cameras have this feature, but some older models may not. If your camera doesn't support USB charging, you'll need to use a different method or purchase a compatible model.

Once you've confirmed that your camera supports USB charging, you can use a power bank with a capacity of at least 10,000mAh. Keep in mind that charging your camera will use more power than charging a mobile phone, so you may only be able to charge your camera once or twice with a 10,000mAh power bank.

If you're using a solar charger, make sure it has a USB output. The Anker PowerPort Solar Lite, for example, has a DC 5V 2.1A output, which should be sufficient for charging your Lumix camera. Connect the solar charger to the power bank using the provided USB cable.

Now, turn off your Lumix camera and connect it to the power bank using a USB cable. If your camera has a "power only" mode, make sure to select that instead of the "data transfer" option. You can also connect your camera directly to the solar charger if it has a USB port.

Let your camera charge until the power bank or solar charger runs out of power or until your camera is fully charged. The charging time will depend on the capacity of your power bank or solar charger and the model of your Lumix camera.

Finally, once your camera is fully charged, safely disconnect the USB cable from the camera and power source. Remember to store your power bank or solar charger appropriately when not in use, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for care and maintenance.

Charging with a replacement charger

If you've lost your Lumix camera's original charger or it's stopped working, you can purchase a replacement. When buying a replacement charger, make sure it's compatible with your specific camera model and battery type. Using the wrong charger can damage your equipment.

• Charger Type: Replacement chargers can be plugged into a wall outlet or connected to a power source like a computer or power bank via a USB cable. Some chargers also come with a USB cable that can be used with a wall adapter.
• Charging Time: The charging time will vary depending on the charger and battery model. Most Lumix camera batteries take a few hours to fully charge.
• Charging Indicators: Some replacement chargers have LED indicators that show when the battery is charging and when it's fully charged. Others may have a blinking or solid light to indicate the charging status.
• Battery Removal: For some Lumix cameras, you need to remove the battery and charge it separately. Others can be charged while still in the camera. Always follow the instructions for your specific camera model.
• Safety: Only use genuine Panasonic batteries and chargers to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential safety hazards. Overcharging your battery can damage it, so remove it from the charger once it's fully charged.

• Mains Battery Charger for Panasonic Lumix Digital Cameras: Replaces Panasonic Quick Charger models DE-A59, DE-A60, and DE-A60B. It is compatible with battery models DMW-BCF10E, DMW-BCF10, CGA-S009, CGA-S009E, and CGA-S106. It has a fast charging time of 1-2 hours, depending on battery capacity, and is designed to prevent overcharging and short-circuiting.
• DMW-BCM13 USB Charger: Compatible with Lumix DMC-TZ55, DMC-TZ60, DMC-TZ61, DMC-FT5, DMC-TS5, DMC-TZ70, and DMC-ZS40/ZS50 cameras.
• DE-A41B / DE-A 11B / DE-A12: This charger is compatible with the CGA-S007, CGA-S007A/1B, CGA-S007E, CGR-S007, CGR-S007E, and CGR-S007E/1B battery models.

Remember to always refer to your camera's user manual for specific charging instructions and recommendations.

Frequently asked questions