recharg batteries

[zelos1]

I have a SonyP50 digital camera that destroys batteries in 10-20 min of use. Does rechargeable batteries really last longer than regular alkaline batteries(or they just good to have because you can recharge them). If so, which brand do you recommend. Here is one someone told me about. What do you guys think? http://www.nimhbattery.com/nimh_battery_chargers.htm

[Bovon]

All batteries are rated in AH. AH is 'ampere hours', and from what little I know, the alkaline batteries will have a bit more AH than the nicad (Nickle Cadmium) types, of compatable size and AH.

I do not know how much energy a digital camera should require, but 10-20 minutes seems too short of a time to me. What make of alkaline batteries have you tried?...there is a great deal of difference in these batteries. I have had certain products that would go thru a 'Radio Shack' special in a few minutes, and when replaced by the "Copper Top"...lasted much longer.

The only benefit from using a rechargeable is the ability to recharge them...but, be aware that even these come in several AH classes...if you buy any battery that has a low AH, it will not last nearly as well as a high AH cell will.

Same thing with an automible battery...you can get a cheaper 12 month 200 AH battery for maybe $20 bucks somewhere, or get a 5 year 400+ AH battery for maybe $50 bucks, and it will last.

Its all in the capacity of the cells ...called Ampere Hours.

[bhess]

Here is a very informative post by our very own D*ck H*ad. :P
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/Forum1/HTML/013656.html

[JnMHayes]

NiMH batteries are NOT an option with digital cameras. Anything else is a huge waste of money. I have two sets of 1350mAH batteries, one of which is in the camera and the other fully charged ready to use. You would take your 35mm camera on vacation without film, would you? You'll get used to always having that extra set of NiMH batteries when you use your digital camera.
Jn

[Richard_Cranium72]

well said j/hayes, and thanks bhess for the boost..

YOU know I spent a lot of time chasing specs on that post, several other members contributed to the effort also.

Searching for information often times is time consuming and often times without thanks.

I appreciate your noticing ..

DrVette

[bhess]

Well I'm thanking you. Rechargables are a must with digital cameras along with plenty of other items. {have kids? you know what I mean)

[EasyFast]

I happen to work in the battery business, so I can shed a little light for you.

First, all NiHH batteries are 1.2V and Alkaline are 1.5V. Why does this matter? Some electronics won't run on low voltage and if they do, it's less efficient and runs the batteries down faster.

Second, NiMH batteries are only about 1/3 the capacity of an equal alkaline or Lithium. This means much less run time. If you can or do run NiMH batteries, contact a battery specialist distributor, they can get you into some high capacity NiMH batteries not found on consumer shelves.

Chances are that NiMH will not work for you http://www.sysopt.com/forum/frown.gif.

If you tell me which size you are using, I can give you some "Brand" and "Purchasing" advise.

BULK is the best purchasing advise I can give. Retail stores are a rip off. For instance, I have seen Energizer Alkaline AA's selling for around the $8 for as many as 16. I know many distributors who will sell you boxes of 24 for the same price or LESS all day long! Most cities have at least one major battery distributor selling in bulk and they have no problem selling to retail people, but most people are afraid to ask.

Anyway, I hope this helps. Let me know what you got and I can at least point you in the right direction.

[zelos1]

Thanks everyone!! I have been using the DURACELL(PROCELL) 1.5volts......I've noticed this weekend that the flash is what was draining my batteries so fast. I was using the flash w/every pic. Using the camera w/o flash makes a huge difference.......I still think I need to invest in some NiMH recharbles.

[Richard_Cranium72]

EasyFast, WTF did you get that information ?

Alkaline batteries last about 30-50 shots in most digital cameras, 1600mah NiMH's last from 200-300 under the same conditions.

This is not unusual or uncommon, NOW,, as far as NiCad's go, your assertion is correct, not for Nickle Metal Hydride.

DrVette