Re: NimH batteries


ASAAR wrote:
> On 31 Aug 2005 08:27:14 -0700, Martin wrote:
>
> > No, I don't know if one is better than the other. I buy rechargeable
> > AA batteries in bulk, because I have many devices (not just cameras)
> > that use them.
>
> Same here. Many devices, several dozen AAs in use, most in sets
> of 4. Some 3, few 2.
>
>
> > So far, by using these matched sets, I have never detected anything
> > close to a reverse charge on a battery. They're matched well enough
> > that by the time any are low, they are all low, and the powered device
> > has shut down anyway.
>
> Reverse charge damage occurs occasionally, but the cause is almost
> always a device that has a very low cutoff voltage (if digital) or
> an analog device that doesn't shut down at all. Sony radios (their
> better ones) are particularly bad when used with rechargeable
> batteries. No battery meter, just a "warning" that really only
> shows that the radio shut down due to low voltage. If there's any
> warning prior to shutdown I've never seen it. In this regard,
> Sangean radios are much better.

You make a very good point; clearly you have thought about the details
of this issue. All batteries, no matter how carefully matched, will
exhibit differences as the charge approaches zero. We as users must
assume a little responsibility when using devices that will continue to
deplete at low voltages.

For example, 4 x AA cells in a flashlight - even with matched cells,
you are asking (begging!) for trouble if you let them run flat. For
digital cameras, and most handheld radios, the device itself gives
plenty of warning. I generally replace/recharge on a common-sense
schedule for flashlights and other voltage-tolerant devices ("analog",
as you say).

Martin

.

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