Quote:
I hate to do work at home but I need some information about NiMH batteries. We have a product at work that recommeds 800-1100mA of current from 3AA’s to run the laser. (It is similar to the laser watch Penny had in Inspector Gadget:p).
What is the highest current rated NiMH AA battery on the market?
Do NiMH drain faster than Alkaline?
Will the life of a NiMH be shortened if left to charge for longer than required? (24 hours plus)
At full charge does a NiMH battery last as long as any other type of battery?
Maybe I should just ask;
What is the best rechargeable battery type for drawing a consistant 800-1100mA for the longest amount of time?
Right,
First off, a 2000+ mAh NiMH battery will have triple the ‘runtime’ of an alkaline.
They can supply 20-25A for short periods, so 1100 mAh is no problems for them.
The other thing to consider is: An alkaline’s voltage steadily decreses in a linear fashion.
A NiMH’s voltage stays very steady, then the last 10-15% of battery power will have a quick drop of voltage.
It’s not recommended to overcharge ANY type of rechargeable battery, though a low current trickle charge doesn’t hurt NiMHs.
800-1100mAh isn’t much current, an AAA NiMH can do that very easily. An AA would just have more capacity.
Personally for high dischage applications, I use Japanese made cells, which are usually the dearer brand, but for your application they are pointless…
Go down to jaycar Electronics and grab some 2300’s, they should last 2 to 2-1/2 hours per charge.
.
