P3D Re: Ni-Cad batteries

[fastline@xxxxxxxxxxxxx]

I would disagree that higher currents supplied by ni-cads is the 
reason. It is much more likely that ni-cads of a given size are 
rated as less voltage than comparable alkaline batteries. For 
example size AAA, AA, C and D alkaline cells are rated at 1.5 volts.
The equivelent ni-cads are generally rated at 1.2 volts. Most 
alkaline cells are considered completley discharged at 0.8 volts.
With this in mind you can see that fully charged ni-cads act like
they are halfway discharged alkalines. For example if your camera
takes 2 AA cells, the series output is 3.0 volts with alkaline or 
only 2.4 volts with ni-cads. I have seen a p & s camera shut down
at 2.2 volts, with nicads that hardly leaves enough room!

Bill Stickley

Gabriel Jacob wrote:
> 
> John Slivon asks,
> >Why are you not supposed to use ni-cads in point and shoot cameras? Or does
> >it really matter? Thanks in advance.
> 
> >From what I understand, this is because ni-cads can deliver far more
> current than regular batteries. Some devices can't handle all that
> in-rush of current and consequently can heat up very quickly and burn
> out. Often times you can get away with it BUT your taking a chance.
> I would recommend if your going to use ni-cads, don't take consecutive
> shots too quickly, so that the motor/flash circuitry doesn't overheat
> and fries/dies. :-(
> 
> Gabriel


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