PCPhoto
Portable PowerWhat to know about camera batteries for maximum performance |
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Page 2 of 4  Take,
for example, Oxyride batteries from Panasonic, which use smaller
chemical particles and a new manufacturing process to pack the
particles closer together. The result is a higher-density energy cell
that delivers up to twice as much power as a standard alkaline without
a significant increase in cost. Kodak markets a similar formulation it
calls Oxy Alkaline. Despite their superior performance, Oxyride
batteries typically cost only a few cents more than conventional
alkaline batteries, and they’re available from many national retailers,
including mass merchants and grocery chains. Expect to pay a bit more
than $1 per cell.Another exciting AA battery technology is the Energizer e2 Lithium. Not to be confused with the similarly named lithium-ion cells, this is a high-performance AA battery that employs an altogether different chemical formulation. Energizer claims that its e2 Lithium AA batteries can take up to 600 pictures under the same conditions in which an ordinary alkaline battery from a leading manufacturer can take only 90 pictures. Although results vary depending on the camera, Energizer e2 Lithium batteries will outlast conventional power cells every time—and by a long shot. Energizer e2 Lithium cells have a 15-year shelf life and weigh one-third less than standard alkaline batteries. You’ll pay a premium price for this premium battery—but if it will be used in a digital camera, MP3 player or similar high-drain application, you’ll quickly recover the difference in cost. It’s a vital part of your backup power strategy, too: toss a couple of packages of e2 Lithium cells in your gadget bag when you travel—the day may come when you’re glad to have this high-capacity alternative at hand.   |
