Nowadays modern video and photography equipment runs on batteries. They are built-in and are developed by the manufacturer for each specific model, or standard AA and AAA types. As a rule, built-in batteries are included, but they have a minimum capacity, and their charge does not last long, which means you should always have a spare set. Already, many users are abandoning disposable batteries in favor of batteries of the same type. Yes, batteries are more expensive, but they can withstand more than one hundred recharge cycles, which means that in the end it turns out cheaper. We offer you an overview of the main types of batteries and their basic characteristics.
A simple and affordable way battery selection for photographic equipment - look in the instructions for your camera or camcorder, where the manufacturer always gives clear recommendations on this issue. Only "native" batteries are too expensive or the delivery of the corresponding model has to wait a long time. At the same time, a wide range of analogues from other manufacturers is presented on the photographic equipment market, but they may differ in capacity and price, but they successfully cope with their main purpose - powering the device. So what do you need to pay attention to? buying batteries for cameras and camcorders ?
Pentac batteries
Battery type AA (rarely - AAA) is usually installed on inexpensive cameras, less often on SLR cameras. But in professional models they are used only together with a booster - an electronic device that increases the voltage and stabilizes the energy supply. Different models of finger-type batteries differ in maximum capacity and output voltage. The capacity is determined by the number of on-off cycles, it is at this moment that more energy is consumed, which means that the number of shots that you can take on this set of batteries is regulated. Now on sale are batteries with a capacity of 1500-3200 mAh or more.
And the output voltage is a characteristic that affects the inclusion of the device itself. When the value of this indicator is very low, the camera's electronic system will consider that the battery is discharged, and therefore must be replaced.
Special batteries
If you use professional photo and video equipment, then the capacity of AA batteries will not be enough for you, it is better to use batteries with a large capacity and power. Usually, a battery of one model may be suitable for several models of cameras, so it is better to study the marking of the device itself or the instructions for photographic equipment. More often, the manufacturer offers several types of batteries that have the same shape and size, but different capacities (mAh, mAh). Original batteries are more expensive than their counterparts made in China, but they are more reliable and withstand more charge-discharge cycles.
Chemical composition
The cheapest are alkaline batteries: nickel-metal hydride and nickel-cadmium. Their main drawback is the presence of a memory effect, which is why the battery must first be completely discharged, and then recharged; continuous recharging gradually reduces the capacity of this type of battery. And the very range of operation of such batteries ranges from -10 to +40 degrees Celsius. Lead-acid batteries are a little more expensive, more reliable, but when fully discharged, they fail.
Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries, on the contrary, must be charged when the remainder of their capacity reaches at least 5-10%; or their capacity will decrease by 20% or more. But they are able to work in different temperature conditions, are durable, unlike saline and alkaline ones, which affects their price, and they are only compatible with a certain model of video and photo equipment. They also have another advantage - they maintain the required voltage level during operation and do not have self-discharge.
Battery charger
Depending on the type of batteries, the charger is selected. Typically, rechargeable batteries for photographic equipment come with a charger. If you want to purchase additionally, you should read the instructions for the technique or read the recommendations of the battery manufacturer. For AA batteries (rechargeable), the choice of charger is made taking into account their size and chemical composition. For example, alkaline batteries use chargers that have a full discharge function and corresponding types of equipment for lithium ion and lithium polymer. Remember that models with a fast charge function will eventually reduce battery life, and vice versa, slower charging will give the maximum effect on battery use for a long time.
It's already 2017, but the profession of a photographer is still very relevant and profitable. But what should any photographer be able to do? Just take pictures? Not at all. You need to understand and love technology, knowing a special approach to it. Every photographer had to deal with the choice of rechargeable batteries for a photo and video camera. And if such a person is a novice photographer, then an important question should have visited him: what kind of rechargeable batteries are best for a camera? It will be sad if an important photo session is suddenly cut short due to low-quality batteries. This can alienate customers and "tarnish" the reputation of a specialist. So which batteries are best for a camera? This article will help you figure it out.
This can only be fixed with special products or special devices. They consume so little power that the battery is "absorbed" to a maximum, which is called "more empty than empty". On the contrary, using a rechargeable battery with a normal consumer of energy and consuming the battery to the end, one can speak of a normal discharge and an empty battery, the state of which is optimal for recharging. This happens automatically, as most appliances turn off alone or no longer work if there is not enough stock left.
Battery types
The choice of batteries is quite diverse, there are NiMh, Li and Zn batteries, but since we choose only the best, we will only talk about the first.
NiMh type batteries
To begin with, you need to know that energy sources of this type can also be classified:
- Conventional NiMh. Such batteries consume a charge even when the device in which they are located is at rest. Only for the first day 23-24% of the charge is consumed, and on each subsequent day - 1%.
- LD-NiMh - "low self-discharge" batteries. They can safely fall through the year, while retaining 85% of the charge.
Are LD batteries suitable for you?
The most budgetary and environmentally friendly LD batteries are the familiar NiMh batteries. It is enough just not to forget to put them on recharging. But using LD-NiMh might raise a couple of questions.
With regard to the optimal charging procedure, modern and above all expensive chargers provide automatic recognition of the remaining capacity and, ultimately, a refresh function: if necessary, the battery is first discharged to the optimum level and then recharged.
Alternatively, there is also a basic possibility to manually "load" the batteries into their optimum state of discharge. Undoubtedly, this is a recharge of batteries that have been stored for a long time, or those that are half empty without loading them earlier. Thus, the only way to recharge or recharge batteries in the case of simple chargers is to first discharge the batteries by a common consumer such as a flashlight, video camera, or a long phone conversation to start recharging.
The bottom line is that conventional batteries have a large capacity, approximately equal to 2700 mAh, LD-NiMh batteries have a capacity of 2100 mAh. It will seem obvious to you that using batteries with a lower capacity is not beneficial, but practice shows the opposite.
It is better to get a large number of charged kits using such batteries. If the memory allows you to remember about timely charging, then you should buy LD-NiMh.
With what current should the battery be charged? As a rule, a current of 10% of the rated power is applied for a reasonable charging process. Ideally, the charging time is 10 hours; but in practice, the charging time is 120% or 12 hours. Of course, these are only theoretical and ideal values, and, of course, it is primarily the desire of the consumer and the user to charge the batteries as soon as possible. Depending on the capacity of the device, the download efficiency is very different.
In the case of many chargers, it should also be taken into account that the maximum capacity of each load slot is predetermined and divided among all slots accordingly. Thus, charging four batteries consumes much more time than charging just one battery. Fast chargers work with higher currents and partly with pulse charging, which is considered to be gentler on the battery. Despite this, you should always choose a slow and adapted load, since fast chargers cannot "fill" batteries in such a short time.
Eneloop XX
This product has occupied a niche in the market since 2005 and is considered legendary. What are the best batteries for cameras? We understand further.
Batteries from Sanyo AA can safely store their charge for up to 5 years. The operation of such batteries implies 1800 cycles of full discharge and charge.
To date, these batteries are considered the best.
Another aspect is the development of heat during the charging process: the colder the temperature, the less damage to the battery. Some fast chargers have a fan to prevent excessive temperature rise. Therefore, those who approach the charging of batteries with meaning and understanding will be with a simple charger while respecting the charging time and charging current. Those who want to charge their batteries quickly and easily must use a more sophisticated device that does the job almost automatically.
They are usually found on landlines, kitchen oars, or lanterns. Many department stores sell chargers for standard batteries for less than 10 euros; but there are also chargers with a price of three figures. A comparison of each of the products highlights the features that make the difference between cheap models and expensive models.
Important! The problem is that they are not so easy to find. But other companies are actively engaged in improving LD-LiMh batteries.
Panasonic batteries
There is another good option that is fairly easy to find on the market. These are Panasonic batteries. They are famous for 1600 charge and discharge cycles. It is no secret that Panasonic has bought the Sanyo brand, so soon the consumer will no longer feel the difference between them.
This small and manageable device is designed for the casual user and does not come with any special features. This is a plug-in charger, that is, it does not have a connection cable, so the device is connected directly to the electric current. It has capacity for two batteries.
The operation is simple: place the batteries, connect the device to the electric current, and the charging process starts automatically. Inside the device are two springs that provide contact with minions and micro batteries of different sizes. The required charging time is taken from the user manual, available in four languages; Just leave the device connected until you reach the values in the table. These times must be respected as the device has no protection against overcharging or overheating.
Special attention should be paid to alkaline batteries.
Alkaline batteries or Alcaine
This is one of the most used types of batteries in everyday life. You can find them in absolutely any store, which makes them very popular. What is it all the same connected with? Yes, they don't need to be recharged. But this “disposability” causes a number of disadvantages.
But the 100mA light load current provides some overload protection if the charging process is not completed in time by removing the current source or batteries. Therefore, "forgetting" it for an hour is not a problem. Simultaneous loading of a minion and microcells is not possible.
The charger is practical as it is very light and compact. Thus, it is very convenient to travel to these countries with European standard inserts. What is not very practical is the long loading time; Those who need to charge the battery quickly will not be well served by this charger. Due to the ten hour charging time for microbats, the charging process should be started in the morning or afternoon, so you don't need to set an alarm to turn off the charger during the night.
Sufficiently weak current will not allow them to be used for modern cameras, so they become relevant only for watches, remote controls, alarm clocks and similar devices.
Important! To eliminate all questions about this type of battery, it is worth noting that Alcaine is translated as “alkaline”. Yes, now it is not difficult to conclude that alkaline batteries, in the near future, will no longer be used in cameras at all. Do we need such batteries? No and no again.
This compact and small charger has four minion battery slots plus two additional self-contained micro batteries that can only be charged if there are no other batteries in the slots. The device has a detachable cable with a European standard connector, and also includes an adapter for a car cigarette lighter in the package.
Depending on the capacity of the installed batteries and the number of batteries, the device charges up to two minion batteries in about 3 hours and up to four minion batteries in about 6 hours. Two micro batteries or one battery can be fully charged within one hour. In this case, too, a loading table is enclosed as an operating manual in four languages.
Still undecided on your choice? Read on!
What are the best AA batteries for long-term use?
You can answer this question yourself if you familiarize yourself with the selection criteria. So how do you choose the best camera batteries?
High current output
Batteries with a high current capacity can give all their capacity to power the camera without reaching the lower voltage levels. Every digital camera is equipped with a power controller that regulates the voltage on the batteries. It is he who gives a signal that the battery is low.
The device is controlled by a microprocessor and thus recognizes bad batteries. Therefore, this instrument can be connected to the electrical current using batteries, although there will be no automatic change of floating load. The device can only charge the same batteries at a time. With a 12 V car connection cable and a weight of only 85 g, it can be used flexibly. A full voltage setting from 100V to 240V completes the picture of this machine.
The location for operation is marked in green until one or more batteries are inserted. These short flashes are synonymous with pulsed charging, which is considered smoother for batteries, and is also associated with higher charge efficiency, among other things, since the batteries don't get as hot during charging.
The controller independently determines the current level of battery discharge by the potential difference on the element itself.
Important! In simple terms, it measures the voltage and, if it suddenly reaches the lower voltage limit (the nominal one), it immediately gives a signal that the battery needs to be replaced.
For standard batteries, the average charge time is approximately 3 or 4 hours. Therefore, the device can be connected to an electrical current and the batteries can remain inside the connectors, which ensures that the batteries work without interruption. It emphasizes the automatic update of a function that, when batteries are introduced, recognizes its state of charge and automatically decides if it is necessary to discharge the batteries earlier or if they can start downloading directly.
Another advantage is the ability to simultaneously charge different types of batteries. Defective batteries are recognized automatically. For example, a photographer working in his flash-heavy studio will need one or more batches of fresh batteries daily for his flash drive. How many times the batteries are removed from the chargers, although they are not yet completely filled, the automatic discharge of the device ensures an optimal charging process.
High current output helps the battery to give absolutely all its capacity to power the device, while not reaching the lower voltage values. For example, if the battery has a capacity of 2500 mAh, all these 2500mAh will go to power the device.
In addition to built-in overheating protection, an additional fan ensures that neither the charger nor the batteries get hot. This device recognizes bad batteries and does not charge them, and minions and micro batteries can be charged at the same time. Thus the microprocessor control has everything under control and the user will charge the batteries in a very short time. The slot is closed with a foldable lid with grooves that provide the necessary ventilation. You can charge up to 4 batteries at the same time, there are only 2 slots for micro batteries.
Low current output
Low current output results in a situation in which the camera cannot “get” the remaining power from the battery and is forced to report that an urgent replacement is needed.
Important! Don't believe? Remove the battery with low current output when the camera "shows" the discharge and insert it into the flashlight, and you will see that there is still plenty of charge in it.
The instruction manual explains the characteristics of the device and the handling of this in five languages, and automatic voltage adaptation from 100V to 240V completes the package. This high-speed loading machine is a very practical tool. The charging process is so fast that you can almost see the batteries being charged.
Simply put, the batteries are charged on the charger, for example, during a lunch break, or empty batteries are placed in the charger when working with charged batteries. In addition, this device has a key that can be used to switch from "load" to "unload and reverse load". Accordingly, this device guarantees an automatic optimum discharge in the discharge state from which the batteries can and should be optimally charged.
Capacity
And only the second selection criterion is capacity. Large capacity combined with high current output will give the greatest number of shots per battery charge.
self-discharge
Well, the last criterion is self-discharge, which we talked about a little at the beginning. Batteries that quickly “self-discharge” will have to be recharged regularly, which is not very convenient and time-consuming, and time and comfort are highly valued today
Therefore, you cannot, for example, run the "update" function in one slot and download the remaining three. But in return, mixing minion and micro batteries is possible in any order and order. The device recognizes bad batteries and discards them during the charging process. After the charging process automatically switches to floating charge, that is, the battery is fully charged by the light of the charging current. This way you have the guarantee of having a full battery when you take it out of the charger.
After installing the batteries, they disappear under a plastic cover, the design of which allows ventilation. The scope of delivery includes an instruction manual in several languages. Without the power supply, this unit weighs 140 g, so it can be used everywhere. This device is also ideal for permanent use. Thus, those who need freshly charged batteries every day will be very well served by a professional charger.
Conclusion
The best sources of power for your device are LD-NiMh batteries. But among them you need to make a choice according to the criteria described above. In any case, you can now easily choose the battery yourself.
The information you have read should help you make your choice and warn you against buying a low-quality product. Now you know how to help your photographer friend who is wondering which batteries are best for a camera? Good luck with your frame!
Just put the battery pack in the device and after the charging process, which will be available, thanks to the floating charging function, the guarantee is always to have charged batteries at your disposal. The idea behind this charger is to use one charger to charge the most common batteries from one, two or even three different camera and camcorder manufacturers. During a vacation in which, for example, one person uses a video camera and another person uses a digital reflex camera, and also carries an instant camera in his pocket, it is possible to charge all lithium-ion batteries with one charger.
Every photographer knows firsthand how much his work depends on batteries and accumulators. No batteries - no pictures. Going to the shooting of the next photo shoot, each photo master is obliged to provide himself with high-quality batteries. And how to make sure that they do not let you down, we'll talk in this article.
How familiar is the situation when at the most important moment such a necessary flash does not work right now. This is the result of inefficient batteries that you only charged last week.
Solving this problem is, in fact, quite simple. You need LSD batteries. This abbreviation is familiar to many, but in this area it has a different meaning and is translated as “low self-discharge”. As you can tell from the name itself, the operating time of such batteries significantly exceeds the operating time of conventional ones. Another plus is that they are compatible with most devices, cameras, flashes, strobes and more.
Many of today's photo devices run only on built-in batteries, so you have no choice. But if your camera still runs on AA batteries, then you need to make the right choice from all their variety. Most likely, NiMh or NiMH batteries will be the best option. Before using them, it is better to read the instructions for your device and find out if it supports this type of battery. Several sets of such batteries will allow your device to serve as long as possible.
Batteries NiMh, Li and Zn
The modern market for batteries and accumulators is quite diverse, so before buying, it is better for you to study the main types so that you know what to choose.
There are many lithium and nickel batteries sold in stores. They have both their pros and cons. Moreover, the number of cons often outweighs. You can talk for a long time about the intricacies and reasons for choosing one or another type of battery, but it will be enough to say, based on experience, that either nickel-metal hydride or NiMh batteries will be the best for a photographer. As mentioned above, in addition to a longer service life, these devices are used not only in cameras, but also in all kinds of auxiliary devices.
We must not forget the benefits of using certain batteries. For example, using NiMh type batteries in LED illuminators, flashes and even radio triggers, batteries will last a little less than others, but in the end will cost you less. It is good to have several charged sets of four with you, then you can not be afraid of a malfunction of any device.
More about NiMh batteries
If you have opted for NiMh batteries, then it's time to find out that they are not the same. It just so happened that not all manufacturers provide the buyer with comprehensive information about their product, limited to a couple of phrases like “ready to use”. However, there are actually several types of NiMh batteries. The first of them are ordinary NiMh, they consume a charge even if the device is at rest. On the first day, about 23-24% of the charge is consumed, and another 1% on each subsequent day. Having carried out simple calculations, we see that more than half of the charge is spent per month just like that.
The second type of batteries is LD-NiMh. As mentioned above, this abbreviation stands for "low self-discharge". If you do not use such devices, then during the year they will retain their charge at the level of 85%. That is, by charging such batteries and putting them in your bag, after any time at the photo shoot, you can safely use them and not be afraid that they will sit down at the wrong moment.
Thus, the difference is obvious: regular NiMhs will have to be recharged before each shooting, LD-NiMhs can lie charged for a whole year.
Are LD batteries suitable for me?
Perhaps, in terms of environmental friendliness and economy, there is no better option than NiMh. When using the main thing - do not forget to put them on recharging in time. But after trying LD-NiMh, you begin to feel significant differences between them.
The fact is that the capacity of conventional batteries is large, on average it is 2700 mAh, for LD-NiMh batteries the capacity is 2100 mAh. It may seem that changing batteries with a larger capacity for a smaller one is not profitable. But in practice, you will see that this is not what you need to worry about.
The solution to this issue is elementary: if you choose a smaller capacity, then we can assume that you will have more spare charged sets, that's what you need to take care of.
If you do not feel the need for more capacity, and do not forget to put your batteries on time for charging, then LD-NiMh is exactly what you need.
Sanyo Eneloop XX Batteries
This product has been on the market since 2005 and it can already be deservedly called legendary. They are based on technology that dictates the development of the market in this area.
Sanyo's AA and Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries are capable of maintaining their charge for 5 years. The new Eneloop batteries are designed to last 1800 charge and discharge cycles. The previous generation withstood 1500 cycles, which is 20% less than the new product.
Perhaps these batteries are among the best on the market at the moment. The problem is that it is not so easy to find them everywhere. However, other companies are actively improving the technology of LD-NiMh batteries. Products from Energizer, Duracell or Ansmann are plentiful. For example, you can find batteries with an increased capacity of 2500 mAh, which, accordingly, increases their operating time.
Panasonic batteries
Another option that is fairly easy to find on the market are Panasonic batteries. They withstand up to 1600 charge and discharge cycles, which is 600 more than previous models. In addition, it is no secret that Panasonic bought the Sanyo brand, so it is natural that their technologies will mix and in the near future, the consumer will not experience much difference between the two types of batteries.
In conclusion, I would like to give a few more tips. If you choose to use rechargeable batteries, make sure you buy them from a reputable store. Take the time to charge, fast charging can only be used when there is an extreme lack of time. The specified number of charge and discharge cycles will only be valid if the battery is charged correctly. And yet, you do not need to mix and use old and new batteries at the same time. It is best to use specific markings so as not to confuse fresh batteries with used ones.
The whole variety of power sources for cameras can be divided into two types: disposable batteries (batteries) and rechargeable sources (accumulators).
Each type includes different types of batteries, which have both advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, when we choose batteries for a camera, questions often arise: which is better and more practical: a battery or an accumulator? what are the best batteries? how many times can they be recharged? To answer them, it is necessary to systematize the available data.
Features of power supplies
To operate a modern digital camera, electricity is needed, the source of which is batteries - rechargeable batteries or batteries inserted into a special compartment. Batteries for cameras are sold already charged, ready for use. Energy is produced due to chemical reactions taking place inside the source body. In this case, the properties of chemical reagents change irreversibly. Therefore, after the energy is used up, the elements are thrown away.
Batteries also react with chemicals to produce electricity. However, after discharge, when a constant electric charging current is connected, the chemicals are restored and the camera battery is ready for use again. Such charge / discharge cycles can be up to 1000 or more without loss of capacity.
Batteries for cameras can also be divided by form factor. The most widespread have always been AA batteries (finger-type). It makes perfect sense that when digital cameras became compact as a result of miniaturization, AA batteries and rechargeable batteries of the same type began to be used to power them. However, for high-level cameras with high power consumption, an AA battery was not suitable. A large capacity power supply was required.
There were two ways out: either to increase the number of batteries, or to produce powerful batteries for a specific camera model. And of course, we should not forget about marketing: the idea of tying a buyer to a battery of a certain company is so obvious that it was impossible to pass it by.
As a result, a situation has developed when there are two types of batteries in terms of their form factor: AA batteries (rarely AAA) and ... the rest - with a wide variety of shapes and sizes of batteries. Is it user friendly? The question is moot. However, there is no shortage of batteries on the market, so there are no problems with acquiring the right model.
Disposable batteries
The obvious advantage of disposable sources is their readiness for immediate operation. The battery-powered camera does not need to be recharged. Sometimes this is decisive.
However, as already noted, AA batteries have one serious drawback, which makes you wonder if it is worth buying batteries of this type.
This disadvantage is a small capacity. Because of this, only entry-level digital cameras that do not consume much power can work with disposable elements.
Serious cameras are equipped with powerful rechargeable batteries, much larger than the size of an AA battery for a camera.
There are several types of disposable batteries. All of them have certain advantages and disadvantages. Consider which camera batteries can work quite well, and which batteries are better for cameras not to use at all.
Salt batteries
Due to their low cost, they are still the most common type of disposable batteries. The reason for the low cost is the availability of raw materials necessary for their production, and the simplicity of manufacturing technology.
The main disadvantages are typical for finger batteries of most types:
- During operation, a sharp decrease in the output electrical voltage may occur;
- Low electrical capacitance;
- Sensitivity to low temperatures;
- High self-discharge rate (up to 30-40% per year of the original capacity).
Alkaline batteries
Perhaps the most popular type of disposable batteries.
They have a number of undeniable advantages over salt batteries:
- They have 1.5 - 2 times more capacity;
- Able to more evenly give the discharge (there is no "sagging" voltage during discharge);
- Self-discharge for a year of storage is no more than 10% of the original capacity;
- Less sensitive to low temperatures.
However, alkaline batteries are also not without disadvantages:
- Relatively high cost (4-5 times higher than that of salt)
- Rapid loss of capacitance when used in electrical appliances that require short-term high current levels.
Despite their higher performance compared to saline batteries, alkaline batteries do not have all the necessary characteristics necessary for full use in professional and commercial applications. But for use in cameras, a class lower, they can be recommended.
Lithium batteries
The best of all disposable batteries.
Despite the rather complex design, more and more manufacturers are switching to their manufacture, since this type of element has high performance characteristics:
- 2 times larger than alkaline, capacity,
- Uniform output voltage throughout the entire period of operation, regardless of the load current
- Long (12-15 years) storage life without loss of charge:
- Can operate at ambient temperature from -40°С to +50°С;
- Minor weight.
The main disadvantage is the price. Lithium batteries cost about 5 times more than alkaline ones. And although they are well suited for digital cameras in terms of their characteristics, using them as the main power source is very unprofitable economically. But as an alternative to batteries in the absence of a source of energy to recharge the batteries, they are ideal. Unless, of course, the camera provides for the use of AA elements.
Rechargeable batteries
The vast majority of manufacturers of photographic equipment have chosen the path of using batteries in their cameras, rather than disposable batteries.
Firstly, the use of disposable batteries imposes certain restrictions on the power consumption of cameras, forcing it to be calculated based on the capabilities of the batteries, and not vice versa.
Secondly, until cheap types of AA batteries with the required energy characteristics are created, the production of cameras for disposable batteries will be a bad decision. The consumer should not be allowed to spend more on batteries than the cost of the camera.
What are the types of camera batteries? The AA battery is widely used in compact digital cameras and "ultrasounds". Due to their limited size, soap dishes sometimes use AAA batteries. The rest of the cameras are mainly equipped with batteries of individual sizes.
Therefore, the types of batteries will be identified and considered based on the technologies and materials used in their production.
Nickel-cadmium batteries (NiCd)
Used since the middle of the 20th century. They began to be used in photography as flash batteries. Due to the reliability and proven manufacturing technology, they are still quite common in photographic equipment.
Main advantages:
- Can work in a wide range of ambient temperatures;
- Able to generate a large current, which is important for some modes;
- Withstand a large number (more than 1000) charge-discharge cycles without significant loss of capacity;
- Have a long shelf life without loss of performance;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- The presence of a memory effect. The need in this regard to periodically carry out a complete discharge of the battery, followed by mandatory charging;
- High self-discharge (up to 10% on the first day)
- Relatively large sizes of other types of batteries;
- Difficulties with disposal due to the presence of hazardous chemicals.
Gradually, the share of NiCd batteries is decreasing.
Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries
With the advent (80s of the 20th century), NiMH batteries were positioned as a replacement for nickel-cadmium batteries. However, the first models lost to their predecessors in many respects. Only a few years ago there was some progress in overcoming the shortcomings of the technology and they began to be used as batteries for cameras.
Advantages of this type of batteries:
- Have 30% more capacity compared to NiCd batteries;
- There is practically no memory effect (with the prevention of a long break in operation);
- They are less toxic.
There are drawbacks and, unfortunately, quite serious ones:
- Almost 2 times less compared to nickel-cadmium batteries, the number of charge / discharge service cycles;
- 1.5 - 2 times higher self-discharge;
- High price.
The developers claim that this technology has great potential for improvement, and models with significantly higher characteristics are expected in the near future.
Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion)
With the advent of lithium-ion batteries in the early 90s of the last century, photo equipment manufacturers received power supplies that satisfy almost all needs for the operation of cameras. The best rechargeable batteries are produced using this technology.
The advantages include:
- High capacity, about 2 times the capacity of NiCd batteries;
- Ability to produce high voltage values;
- Compactness;
- Low self-discharge values (approximately 2-5% per month);
- Wide operating temperature range (from -20 to + 50 °С);
- A sufficiently large number of charge / discharge operating cycles (600-900);
- Low maintenance requirements.
The disadvantages include:
- Susceptibility to aging (failure of unused batteries that have been in storage for several years);
- Failure with deep discharge;
- High price;
- Explosion hazard of some models.
Useful advice! Do not buy a spare lithium battery if you do not intend to use it at least from time to time.
A further development of lithium-ion batteries was the emergence of lithium-polymer batteries (Li-Pol). Having inherited a high capacitance and stability of the output voltage, they are much smaller in size and allow them to be given a variety of shapes without loss of capacity. This opens prospects for manufacturers of photographic equipment to produce more compact models.
When choosing batteries for the camera, it is necessary, first of all, to strictly follow the recommendations of the manufacturer of photographic equipment, set out in the instruction manual. For example, the instruction prescribes that only the rechargeable battery of this company is used for the camera. This is especially true during the warranty period. The failure of photographic equipment in which non-original batteries were used can be recognized as a non-warranty case with unpleasant consequences for the owner.
If the design of the camera allows the use of disposable AA cells, you should opt for well-known brands of lithium batteries. Their cost is high, but these are the best batteries on the market. Firstly, they will allow you to take much more photographs than alkaline elements (not to mention saline ones).
Secondly, when working in the camera, the power sources experience maximum load and get very hot. Batteries produced by unknown companies in a semi-handicraft way may become unusable or even ignite. Naturally, the batteries must not be damaged.
If, nevertheless, a decision is made to purchase a non-original power source for the camera, then several rules must be followed:
- Buy a model from reliable manufacturers (list below). Buying a cheap product from an unknown company can turn into a big nuisance;
- Purchased batteries must be manufactured using the same technology as the original ones. For example, a lithium-ion battery cannot be replaced with a nickel-cadmium battery of the same capacity and output voltage. The latter cannot provide a short-term output of a large current, and the camera may become unusable;
- It is necessary to purchase chargers for specific battery models. Power supplies of the latest generations are very sensitive to compliance with charge / discharge modes. The use of third-party chargers greatly shortens the life of the batteries and reduces their capacity.
The best battery manufacturers
The best manufacturers of batteries at the moment are the following companies:
- Duracell, Energizer (USA);
- Varta (Germany);
- Panasonic, Sony (Japan);
- GP (Hong Kong).
These companies offer a full range of high quality disposable cells and rechargeable batteries.
Among domestic manufacturers, quality products of the Cosmos company can be noted. Specializes in the production of AAA and AA alkaline disposable batteries.
The company's nickel-metal hydride AA rechargeable batteries are also well known to consumers.
Useful advice! If you have to shoot for extended periods of time in high temperatures and/or hot climates, always keep a spare set of batteries for your camera with you.
To ensure high-quality and long-term operation of photographic equipment, it is recommended to use batteries that are suitable in size.
Although batteries can be used effectively for this purpose, rechargeable power supplies can save money if the instrument is used frequently. The main characteristics, as well as what criteria should be considered when choosing a new power source, will be described in detail in this article.
Maintenance
Varieties of power sources
In stores, you can find a large number of models of power sources that can be used to change dead camera batteries.
It can be difficult to determine the possibility of using a battery for a particular device model. Most often, two types of batteries are used in photographic equipment: finger-type and specialized.
Finger AA
AA size can be found in inexpensive devices for photographing. The advantage of using such products lies in their versatility.
The necessary designations are almost always indicated on the case of such batteries, but in many cases this information turns out to be superfluous, because visually identifying a finger-type battery is not difficult at all.
Unfortunately, such devices have serious drawbacks, including high heat generation during charging, increased self-discharge and inoperability at temperatures below minus 10 degrees Celsius.
Ni-Cd. The main advantage of batteries is their low cost. The disadvantages of such products include the presence of a memory effect, so the power sources are completely discharged before being inserted into the charger again.
Li-Ion. Lithium-ion batteries are the most durable products, so they can even be used in external batteries. This type of battery holds a charge perfectly, so many models of expensive cameras are equipped with compact original products of this type.
Rechargeable lithium power sources have a voltage of 3.7 volts on the contacts instead of one and a half. Nickel-zinc batteries are also not recommended due to the increased voltage, which will be especially noticeable when the cells are connected in series.
Which manufacturers to look out for
By purchasing products from well-known manufacturers, you can be sure of the high quality of products. Regardless of whether you buy batteries or rechargeable batteries, it is recommended to pay attention to the following brands:
Do not use cheap Chinese counterparts to replace branded products. In this case, not only the duration of operation will suffer, but the safety of operation of photographic equipment will also be a big question.
Have questions or have something to add? Then write us about it in the comments, this will make the material more complete and accurate.
It's no secret that the productivity of a photographer's work depends not only on the quality of equipment, but also on it. Actually, everything is simple - there is no charge, there are no pictures. Therefore, before leaving for the next photo session, it will obviously be useful to check your professional luggage for the presence of batteries for the camera.
Moreover, modern, as well as advanced, technology is very demanding on batteries. Here, the uninterrupted operation of the flash must be ensured, and the normal brightness of the screen, and the operation of the "stuffing". So the choice of batteries for the camera should be approached very carefully. Moreover, today's market offers a lot of options, as they say, for every taste and color.
So, let's try to figure out which batteries for the camera are best suited, what to pay special attention to in the first place and how not to miscalculate with a purchase. Consider the main characteristics of batteries and what they are remarkable for when it comes to the sphere of photography.
Difficulties of choice
To begin with, we will conduct a brief educational program on the types and types of batteries for the camera. On sale you can find two types of similar batteries, and they differ from each other very significantly. The first are simple and disposable batteries for the camera. That is, there is no question of any recharge of the batteries. They are ready to work right from the store shelf and are several times cheaper than their more productive counterparts.
Batteries
Rechargeable batteries for the camera are designed for many charge cycles. Despite their high cost, such batteries are more practical in terms of not only efficiency, but also payback. After purchase, they usually need to be charged, after which they can be used like regular batteries.
Non-standard batteries (proprietary)
There are also specific and non-standard batteries. They are equipped with branded equipment, it is almost impossible to find an alternative to them. For example, a good half of Sony cameras have a built-in battery and change only due to natural wear and tear or damage. So here you can not even think about replacing batteries.
Battery types
Simple and rechargeable batteries also differ in form factor. Manufacturers of photographic equipment are not particularly smart and settled on two types of power supply - AA and AAA. In the common people, “finger” and “little finger”, respectively. There are also very tiny AAAA and 9-volt massive "Crowns", but they are very, very rare in photographic equipment.
For beginners in this business and owners of "soap dishes" ordinary batteries are enough, and buying batteries is simply impractical. Those who are professionally engaged in photography and have serious gadgets in their arsenal need stable, powerful and capacious batteries. Such qualities just offer batteries. Of course, a smart battery for a Canon or Nikon camera will cost a pretty penny, but they also have a corresponding return.
Chemical composition
Batteries may also differ in chemical composition. A little earlier, there were a dime a dozen varieties of chemical “filling”, but only four have survived to this day, which can boast of an acceptable return for modern technology.
Ni-Cd
Nickel-cadmium batteries are the most commonly used batteries. They are relatively inexpensive, well resistant to sub-zero temperatures and have consistently high charging currents. This option also begins to slowly become obsolete, because the cons sometimes outweigh the pros.
As a fly in the ointment here is the toxicity of the elements and the decrease in capacity with each recharge. In addition, such batteries need to be recharged only after complete depletion. Otherwise, the operating period of the elements will be significantly reduced.
Ni-MH
Nickel-metal hydride batteries can be called an improved version of nickel-cadmium. They retained all the advantages of the previous generation and practically got rid of its shortcomings. Regular recharging here now has a lesser effect on the operational life, and the toxicity of the batteries has been reduced.
As for operation, the efficiency of such batteries has approximately doubled, and the voltage is stably maintained and does not change even with a minimum charge. It is also worth noting that nickel-metal hydride batteries can have a noticeably higher capacity than conventional nickel-cadmium batteries.
Li-Ion
Lithium-ion batteries are completely devoid of the effect of reducing capacity during recharging, they are light in weight and high in density. The main advantages of this type of batteries are the lowest self-discharge and fast replenishment. In addition, the battery offers a high discharge voltage.
Lithium-ion batteries are good in many ways, but they also have their own, especially for a photographer working in the field, critical shortcomings. Here we are talking about high sensitivity to the environment: low, as well as high, temperatures have an extremely unfavorable effect on the condition and efficiency of the battery.
In addition, batteries of this kind do not tolerate a full charge and oversaturation. That is, you can't leave them overnight. It is also worth noting that the cost of lithium-ion batteries is much higher than the same Ni-MH.
Li-Pol
They are a more advanced version of lithium-ion. They have a 20% higher charge density and noticeably better resistance to ambient temperature.
Almost the only drawback of lithium-polymer batteries is the high risk of fire when the charge is oversaturated or overheated. So on a hot sunny day, it is better to leave them discharged at home.
Summarizing
Professional photographers and experts in the field consider nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries for the camera. They are as versatile as possible, cost significantly less than lithium-ion and polymer ones, and also have sufficient capacity to service almost any serious photographic equipment.
As for manufacturers, the situation is more or less clear. The same pros and experts recommend paying attention to proven and well-established brands, as well as series. Beginners can sometimes offer quite decent and inexpensive options, but they have to be sorted out with special care.
Among other venerable manufacturers, we can recommend the Sanyo brand, which, as they say, ate the dog in this business. The Eneloop XX series turned out to be the most successful, and you can choose any model you like from this line without hesitation. Also, professionals say a lot of warm words about Panasonic products, where almost every series is distinguished by a high-quality set of models. Well, do not forget about the fakes that have flooded the domestic market, and buy batteries only in trusted offline and online stores.