Are rechargeable batteries ok in handheld GPS?

[Nick2]

If so are any particular makes better than others ?

Thanks

Nick

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[Happy1]

Go to Maplins, they are doing some good deals on rechargeable batteries at the moment, they also sell handheld GPS's so will be able to advise. I have rechargeable for my backup one, and have never had a problem. I got the 2000mAh Ni-MH ones, last for ages /forums/images/icons/wink.gif They were doing a deal with four batteries in a plug in charger unit (worked out the charger unit was nearly free)

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[jon_bailey]

Nick

Ni-Mh batteries should be ok although remember that their capacity is less than Alkali but higher than Ni-Cad. Also self discharge rates for rechargeables are much higher. This means that Ni-Mh batteries will not last as long and if you leave them unused for a long time they will need to be re-charged. Also discharge curve is such that they tail off very quickly so unless you have a very accurate voltage detector, they can suddenly go from what appears charged to uncharged.

To summarise, if you are going to use Ni-Mh batteries (cells to be more precise) make sure you always have a charged spare set!

The below link takes you to some excellent deals on batteries and charger that can work from mains and 12V cig lighter so you can use on board. I have a similar one and so far it is excellent. Do not buy Ni Mh cells with less than 2000 mAh capacity but not worth the extra for the 2300 MAh.

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Pm if you want further advice.

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[Renegade_Master]

Greetings Nick hope you and Joanne are well.
As you probably remember I have a Garmin 12XL which I use linked to the computor for the GPS signal. I can use standard or rechargeable batteries with it, in fact I got the rechargeable battery kit free when I bought the Garmin at the Boat Show in Jan 2000.

However rather than risking batteries going flat I have a dual lead which takes 12v power from the ciggy lighter on the boat to the Garmin, the second part of the lead goes to the com port on the PC.. Ergo never had flat batteries. CGN



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[Steve_D]

All of the Garmins have a setting on them for different rechargeables and will give a reasonably accurate estimate of battery life. NiHms (sp?) seem to be better than Ni-Cads in my experience and will stand up to partial charging better but I believe have a shorter life (number of recharges) although they should perform better for the whole life of the cell.

Steve D

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