TL;DR: Use the Battle Station for a fixed, permanent mount; the Power Plate when you need portability and flexibility; and the Middle Man when you need high power and long runtime with dual-battery slots.
The Three ZED Models & How They Differ
- Battle Station: Built for semi-permanent or permanent installs. Ideal for service trucks, sheds or job-site containers. Designed for rivets, screws or adhesive mounting.
- Power Plate: Built for versatility and mobility. Includes speed-straps, hooks and clamps—and can also slip into a dedicated Mounting Bracket | Suits ZED 12V Power Plate (sold separately) when you want something semi-fixed.
- Middle Man: Designed for high-power, long-runtime setups thanks to its dual-battery slot design—perfect for fridges, extended field use or heavier gear. It can also slide into a dedicated Mounting Hook | Suits ZED 12V Middle Man (sold separately) when you prefer a semi-fixed mount.
Top 5 Mounting Scenarios & The Best ZED Model for Each
1. Drawer-side or Tub-side Mount in a Service Ute or 4WD
For a dedicated 12 V station beside your tray drawers, the Battle Station is the go-to. Use screws or rivets to secure it. If you might move between vehicles, the Power Plate gives you strap or hook-on flexibility.
2. Canopy-Panel or Side-Wall Mount for Camping or On-Site Vans
On a canopy wall or van panel, the Power Plate is ideal for its quick-mount attachments. If you’re installing once and leaving it, the Battle Station works brilliantly. If you need longer runtime, the Middle Man comes into play.
3. Temporary/Portable Mounts for Job-Sites or Remote Setups
When you’re mobile—moving between sites or camps—the Power Plate is the clear winner thanks to its strap/hook options. Need serious runtime? The Middle Man is your heavy-duty alternative.
4. Fixed Wall Mount for Workshop, Shed or Container
A stable workspace deserves a permanent mount. Choose the Battle Station for a clean, wall-mounted 12 V hub. If you occasionally remove it, the Middle Man offers strong performance with dual-battery capacity.
5. Outdoor Mount for Portable Lighting or Events
For powering lighting, events or external gear, portability is key—so go Power Plate. If you’re installing a long-term outdoor setup, the Battle Station fits. Need heavy load capability outdoors? Again, Middle Man delivers.
Summary – Which ZED Product Fits Your Workflow?
In short:
- Use the Battle Station when you want a “fit-and-forget” fixed mounting point.
- Use the Power Plate when you need rapid install/removal and versatility.
- Use the Middle Man when you demand high power, long runtime and dual-battery capacity.
All models include ZED’s built-in Low Voltage Disconnect (LVD) for battery protection, and a range of mounting accessories like speed straps and mounting brackets to match your mobile or fixed power needs.