BATTERIES
Several types are used in media production. Most common are: alkaline batteries –AA and AAA -that are widely available, and used for powering portable sound recorders, microphones and other smaller pieces of kit. Buy best quality. Always have spares. Rechargeable alkaline batteries are available. Typically these can be recharged up to 50 times. Most video camcorders use NiCad or NiMH.
NiCad -nickel–cadmium batteries are rechargeable and robust, and relatively inexpensive. But can be heavy, dislike hot conditions and suffer from memory. This means they have to be completely run down, or conditioned, before being recharged, or they will not go back to the original fully charged power. If put on to charge before fully depleted they will only charge up to (i.e. remember) the level they were run down to in use. After several rechargings the battery life will be much shorter unless conditioned each time.
NiMH -Nickel–metal hydride batteries are rechargeable and strong, cost more, but are much less prone to memory problems and can be used more often. Typically NiMH can be recharged up to 500 times NiMH batteries will self-discharge if left unused. Generally, within 30 to 60 days batteries will become completely drained. Recharge before using. Good for video cameras.
Li-lon or Lithium ion batteries may cost more, but work extremely well and do not suffer from memory problems. Good in hot and cold weather. Good for digital cameras.
