|
Batteries
|
|
|
|
Most digital
cameras use either rechargeable Lithium-ion batteries or
rechargeable/disposable AAs.
|
| |
Disposable
AAs
Given
the high power consumption of digital cameras, it is economically
and environmentally unjustified to use disposable batteries other
than in emergency situations when your rechargeables are depleted.
Disposable Lithium AAs are more expensive than Alkalines, but
having about three times the power packed in half the weight, they
are ideal to carry with you as a backup.
|
| |
Rechargeable
AAs (NiCd and NiMH)
NiMH
(Nickel Metal Hydride) rechargeable AA batteries
are much better than the older NiCd (Nickel
Cadmium) AAs. They have no "memory
effect" (explained below) and are more than
twice as powerful. Capacities are constantly
improving and differ per brand.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rechargeable
Lithium-ion Batteries
Li-ion
(Lithium-ion) rechargeable batteries are lighter, more
compact, but more expensive than NiMH batteries. They have
no memory effect and always come in proprietary formats
(there are no rechargeable Li-ion AAs). Some cameras also
accept disposable Lithium batteries, such as 2CR5s or CR2s
via an adapter, ideal for backup purposes.
Charging
|
|
 |
|
Example
of Lithium-ion battery and adapter to
accommodate three CR2 Lithium batteries.
|
|
|
|
|
Fully
charged batteries will gradually lose their charge, even when not
used. So if you have not used your camera for a few weeks, make
sure you bring a freshly charged battery along on your shootout.
Charging NiCD batteries before they are fully discharged will
reduce the maximum capacity of subsequent charges. As the effect
gets stronger when repeated often, it is called "memory
effect". It is therefore recommended to recharge the
batteries only after they are fully depleted. To a lesser extent,
this is also useful for NiMH or Lithium-ion batteries, although
they have virtually no memory effect. Doing so will also increase
the life span of the battery which is determined by the number of
"charge-discharge" cycles that depends on the type and
brand
|
