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Where are you purchasing fresh batteries, and what brand?


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I hope I posted this in the correct section.

 

I have a Magellan Explorist 310 - it suits me well until I am able to save for a different GPS.

 

My question is, what is the consensus on where to purchase fresh batteries and what brand? I use AA, and I have tried buying them at the checkout area of a few different busy grocery stores thinking the turnover would keep them new, nope they don't last long at all, I tried buying them at the SUPER busy (and pain in the neck) Wal-Mart....still not that long of a life. I always buy smaller packs thinking they will be newer, always check the date - not even sure if that matters. I use the GPS like most, maybe four hours at a stretch, and I put mine in suspend mode when I know I am hiking up a distance before I even get into the area....and my batteries only last me about four trips. I like to keep spares in my pack, but even then, if they are dead, they are of no use.

 

I have tried duracell, eveready, and energizer. I almost think energizer worked slightly longer - but I would really like to hear what many of you are using and where you are buying them.

 

Thanks!!

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I can't say where to find them, but I use energizer industrial. I get them from a battery specialist, so I can't tell younwhere to find them. I also use Kirkland (costco) for smaller stuff like tv remotes. I suggest if you go through batteries like that (and a lot of us do) to use rechargeable batteries. $20 for a 4 pack of AA's and wall charger. Or if your gps supports it you can put them in and charge them by USB, just like your phone. Only do that if the gps supports it, as the chargers (or gps) are computerized, so if you just charge them without the aid of the chip, they can not work at the best, or explode at the most.

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I hope I posted this in the correct section.

 

I have a Magellan Explorist 310 - it suits me well until I am able to save for a different GPS.

 

My question is, what is the consensus on where to purchase fresh batteries and what brand? I use AA, and I have tried buying them at the checkout area of a few different busy grocery stores thinking the turnover would keep them new, nope they don't last long at all, I tried buying them at the SUPER busy (and pain in the neck) Wal-Mart....still not that long of a life. I always buy smaller packs thinking they will be newer, always check the date - not even sure if that matters. I use the GPS like most, maybe four hours at a stretch, and I put mine in suspend mode when I know I am hiking up a distance before I even get into the area....and my batteries only last me about four trips. I like to keep spares in my pack, but even then, if they are dead, they are of no use.

 

I have tried duracell, eveready, and energizer. I almost think energizer worked slightly longer - but I would really like to hear what many of you are using and where you are buying them.

 

Thanks!!

 

Are you using lithium ones or regular?

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To answer the original question : I get my Duracells from Costco. And sometimes, I get Tenergy AA from Fry's when they're on sale. For 50c for a 4 pack, even if they don't last as long, I'm not complaining.

 

Slightly off topic : How often do you need to replace batteries? Approximately how much do you pay for them? I use NiMH exclusively (low self discharge eneloops, and I have a pack of lithium disposable for emergency stand-by). It's easy enough to do a quick calculation to see if NiMH might be cheaper for you overall.

 

If you'd rather do the calculations yourself, a 4 pack of Eneloop with an OK charger costs $18 on Amazon. I've used some pairs for over 5 years now. Assume 3 years, and that the batteries alone cost $14 (Amazon price - it fluctuates). Do you spend more than $5 a year on batteries?

 

The low self discharge batteries hold their charge for months. You may want to get an extra 4 batteries, or just have a set of Alkaline or lithium disposable as stand-by.

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I use Sanyo Eneloops that I purchased at Costco several years ago. The pack also came with some AAAs that I use in my TV's remote control. I have not had to buy AAs or AAAs since I bought those. I usually have a spare set of batteries either in the car or in my pocket in case the current pair gets all used up. Lately, I've been using the Oregon 650 or the GPSMAP 64 both of which have a removable NiMH battery pack that I can charge via plugging the unit into the cigarette lighter adapter in my car between caches -- I still always have a spare pair of Eneloops on me though.

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Lately, I've been using the Oregon 650 or the GPSMAP 64 both of which have a removable NiMH battery pack that I can charge via plugging the unit into the cigarette lighter adapter in my car between caches -- I still always have a spare pair of Eneloops on me though.

Even more off topic : the Garmin energy pack is nothing special. It's 2 NiMH AA wrapped up in a metal sleeve. If you cut out a rectangular piece of plastic to place between the batteries and the button, your unit can recharge your Eneloops as well. Obviously, don't try this if you're not comfortable with it.

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I LOVE this forum - everyone is so nice and helpful - thanks so much for everyone writing what they use and where they purchase!!! It looks like there might be fresher batteries (more turnover) at Costco, since I don't have a membership, I will need to ask someone to purchase them for me.

 

I can't recall what I pay when I buy a 4 pack, but I am positive I have never bought lithium or NiMH batteries. I never once thought about purchase rechargeable batteries, that might be a very good idea. Once a long time ago I bought Ray-o-vac (notice I said one time) and it was like they lasted for the blink of an eye - never again. But with the others that I have been trying, they are lasting about four or five days of about four or five hour usage each time.

 

After reading all the responses, I will wait until maybe this Friday evening to see if anyone else mentions something, then go and see if I can have someone pick up batteries for me at Costco, give that a go over the weekend - and then if I am still not seeing improvement in the battery life maybe think about moving to rechargeable.

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Panasonic (used to be Sanyo) Eneloops are the best batteries to invest in. If you can't find them locally, you can always source them from amazon. They run about $10 for a 4-pack or $20 for an 8-pack.

 

Regular alkaline batteries are going to give you the worst performance in terms of run time. Lithium will give you the best. But lithium batteries cost just as much as Eneloops, and the eneloops are reusable, hold their charge on the shelf for quite a long time, and are reliable for many charge cycles. Do NOT, under any circumstances, buy the cheap energizer rechargeables as they have a fast self-discharge and lose their ability to charge to full capacity quite quickly, making them unreliable.

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What is it in these disposable alkaline cells that you believe to be contributing to 'toxic waste', Splashy? I don't think the paranoids in California classify either zinc or magnesium dioxide as hazardous materials. In fact, it's the nickel in your NiMH that they seem to be taking aim at these days, though heaven knows why.

 

That said, I agree that not using rechargables doesn't make a lot of sense given the $ involved. Unless it's for very occasional use, the difference in price is recouped quickly.

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I hope I posted this in the correct section.

 

I have a Magellan Explorist 310 - it suits me well until I am able to save for a different GPS.

 

My question is, what is the consensus on where to purchase fresh batteries and what brand? I use AA, and I have tried buying them at the checkout area of a few different busy grocery stores thinking the turnover would keep them new, nope they don't last long at all, I tried buying them at the SUPER busy (and pain in the neck) Wal-Mart....still not that long of a life. I always buy smaller packs thinking they will be newer, always check the date - not even sure if that matters. I use the GPS like most, maybe four hours at a stretch, and I put mine in suspend mode when I know I am hiking up a distance before I even get into the area....and my batteries only last me about four trips. I like to keep spares in my pack, but even then, if they are dead, they are of no use.

 

I have tried duracell, eveready, and energizer. I almost think energizer worked slightly longer - but I would really like to hear what many of you are using and where you are buying them.

 

Thanks!!

Are you using rechargeables?

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What is it in these disposable alkaline cells that you believe to be contributing to 'toxic waste', Splashy? I don't think the paranoids in California classify either zinc or magnesium dioxide as hazardous materials. In fact, it's the nickel in your NiMH that they seem to be taking aim at these days, though heaven knows why.

Alkaline batteries may contain mercury, though many of the reputable brands are mercury free for years now. They contain potassium hydroxide (the "alkaline" in alkaline battery) which can leak, and while probably doesn't do much environmental damage, can do extensive local damage to your device. I've lost a number of flashlights and calculators to leaking batteries.

 

I'm not aware of the "paranoids in California" taking aim at nickel - links? There's some publicity after Fitbit recalled the Flex due to nickel causing allergic reaction on some people. I know that the cadmium in NiCd batteries are toxic but thank goodness we don't have to deal with those batteries much any more.

 

Like you mentioned, the most compelling argument for using rechargeable batteries is not environmental, but the money it can save. It's easy enough to calculate, and the initial money outlay is not large either. We're not talking about $20,000 in solar panels that will pay for itself over 15 years if nothing breaks, we're talking about $20 that should pay for itself in a year or less if you cache every weekend.

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I can't belief there are still people around who use batteries like for a few hours, then toss them away, just piling up toxic waste.

Yeah, if we saw someone just "toss them away" we'd be upset too.

- All ours go with my other 2/3rds to work. They recycle those rechargeables others swear by (and even laptop batteries) there too.

Edited by cerberus1
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Panasonic (used to be Sanyo) Eneloops are the best batteries to invest in. If you can't find them locally, you can always source them from amazon. They run about $10 for a 4-pack or $20 for an 8-pack.

 

Regular alkaline batteries are going to give you the worst performance in terms of run time. Lithium will give you the best. But lithium batteries cost just as much as Eneloops, and the eneloops are reusable, hold their charge on the shelf for quite a long time, and are reliable for many charge cycles. Do NOT, under any circumstances, buy the cheap energizer rechargeables as they have a fast self-discharge and lose their ability to charge to full capacity quite quickly, making them unreliable.

 

Agree completely. We've used NIMH for over 10 years and Eneloop since they came out......you can't beat the combo of Eneloop batteries and a MAHA charger.

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Got a serious question...

Is it possible that region has something to do with the use of alkaline vs rechargeable?

We've yet to find a rechargeable that lasts ONE full day during the late Fall/Winter and notice most in our area use alkalines after finding the same

Notice that quite a few who swear by rechargeables here live where there's warmer weather, so might be different when the lowest temp is 60?

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Panasonic (used to be Sanyo) Eneloops are the best batteries to invest in. If you can't find them locally, you can always source them from amazon. They run about $10 for a 4-pack or $20 for an 8-pack.

 

Regular alkaline batteries are going to give you the worst performance in terms of run time. Lithium will give you the best. But lithium batteries cost just as much as Eneloops, and the eneloops are reusable, hold their charge on the shelf for quite a long time, and are reliable for many charge cycles. Do NOT, under any circumstances, buy the cheap energizer rechargeables as they have a fast self-discharge and lose their ability to charge to full capacity quite quickly, making them unreliable.

Ha ha, now I know. I started buying Sanyo Eneloops a couple of years ago and purchased a MAHA charger, too. I couldn't be happier with the batteries and the charger. But, at my local Canada Computer store, I noticed more Panasonic Eneloops and only a few Sanyo Eneloops (must be old stock).

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After ruining more than a few electronic items, I've also learned the hard way to avoid alkaline cells altogether. Brand-new fresh alkaline blister packs from Costco in both the AA and AAA sizes have leaked, and while still in the packaging, no less. :o

 

If it can't run on Sanyo/Panasonic Eneloop or Energizer "Ultimate" Lithium cells, I don't bother. :D

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Ha ha, now I know. I started buying Sanyo Eneloops a couple of years ago and purchased a MAHA charger, too. I couldn't be happier with the batteries and the charger. But, at my local Canada Computer store, I noticed more Panasonic Eneloops and only a few Sanyo Eneloops (must be old stock).

Panasonic purchased Sanyo in Dec 2009. They didn't change the branding immediately, but yeah, the Sanyos are old stock. There shouldn't be any difference between the latest generation Sanyo and the current generation Panasonic.

 

The Maha is a fine charger. So is the slightly less expensive LaCrosse as well. Both allows you to charge batteries quickly, measure their capacity, rejuvenate old batteries. But $50 for a charger is a hard sell for someone who doesn't use NiMH a lot. The bundled charger is decent enough, charges cells individually, and stops charging when it is full. Good enough for most people, and good enough as a backup charger.

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Got a serious question...

Is it possible that region has something to do with the use of alkaline vs rechargeable?

We've yet to find a rechargeable that lasts ONE full day during the late Fall/Winter and notice most in our area use alkalines after finding the same

Notice that quite a few who swear by rechargeables here live where there's warmer weather, so might be different when the lowest temp is 60?

 

I've got an Oregon 450, and I get about 8-10 hours of use from a pair of Eneloops on a single charge. That's generally enough to last me a day of caching, but I always bring a second pair with me regardless of how long I'm going to be out. I live in Idaho where winters are cold and summers are hot. I still get that 8-10 hour battery life all year round, except maybe on the coldest of days. That's still better than the ~6 hours I would get using alkalines. The main reason I switched to rechargeables is because I was going through batteries pretty quickly, even using Lithium cells. Since using rechargeables, I pretty much only use the same 4 batteries over and over again in my GPS. I've also switched to using rechargeables in my headlamp, external flash for my camera, tv remotes, etc. I keep a few extra on hand to swap out while spent batteries charge. I only buy new batteries now when I buy a device that requires them. Otherwise, I'm just re-using what I have, and in the long run, that's saved me quite a bit.

 

I have yet to try the Eneloop XX (now marketed as Eneloop Pro). These have about a 25% higher capacity than the standard eneloops, but they also decay faster and are good for fewer charge cycles. But for geocaching, they might give you a few extra hours of run time, but for me, I haven't found that the small capacity upgrade is worth the price cost (2x). I just bring extra batteries along.

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Got a serious question...

Is it possible that region has something to do with the use of alkaline vs rechargeable?

We've yet to find a rechargeable that lasts ONE full day during the late Fall/Winter and notice most in our area use alkalines after finding the same

Notice that quite a few who swear by rechargeables here live where there's warmer weather, so might be different when the lowest temp is 60?

 

I've got an Oregon 450, and I get about 8-10 hours of use from a pair of Eneloops on a single charge. That's generally enough to last me a day of caching, but I always bring a second pair with me regardless of how long I'm going to be out. I live in Idaho where winters are cold and summers are hot. I still get that 8-10 hour battery life all year round, except maybe on the coldest of days. That's still better than the ~6 hours I would get using alkalines. The main reason I switched to rechargeables is because I was going through batteries pretty quickly, even using Lithium cells. Since using rechargeables, I pretty much only use the same 4 batteries over and over again in my GPS. I've also switched to using rechargeables in my headlamp, external flash for my camera, tv remotes, etc. I keep a few extra on hand to swap out while spent batteries charge. I only buy new batteries now when I buy a device that requires them. Otherwise, I'm just re-using what I have, and in the long run, that's saved me quite a bit.

 

I have yet to try the Eneloop XX (now marketed as Eneloop Pro). These have about a 25% higher capacity than the standard eneloops, but they also decay faster and are good for fewer charge cycles. But for geocaching, they might give you a few extra hours of run time, but for me, I haven't found that the small capacity upgrade is worth the price cost (2x). I just bring extra batteries along.

 

I'm really glad to see that question posted - and the helpful answer regarding the life as well as weather - because I use the GPS in both extremes of heat and cold. The rechargables are looking more and more interesting to me.

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Panasonic (used to be Sanyo) Eneloops are the best batteries to invest in. If you can't find them locally, you can always source them from amazon. They run about $10 for a 4-pack or $20 for an 8-pack.

An even better deal is the AmazonBasics AA High-Capacity Ni-MH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries. These are the same as the Eneloop XX but cost a lot less.

 

These are manufactured by the same company that makes the Eneloops for Panasonic (Fujitsu).

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Panasonic (used to be Sanyo) Eneloops are the best batteries to invest in. If you can't find them locally, you can always source them from amazon. They run about $10 for a 4-pack or $20 for an 8-pack.

An even better deal is the AmazonBasics AA High-Capacity Ni-MH Pre-Charged Rechargeable Batteries. These are the same as the Eneloop XX but cost a lot less.

 

These are manufactured by the same company that makes the Eneloops for Panasonic (Fujitsu).

The white AmazonBasics AA is rumored to be the same as the previous generation Eneloop (not the XX / Pro). Even though its specs are not as good as the current generation Eneloop, it's close enough and quite a bit less expensive. One thing to bear in mind - if you recharge once a day, meaning you go through 2 pairs of batteries a day, at 1500 recharge cycle (last generation Eneloop) they will last 4 years.

 

And regarding price difference of Eneloop Pro, I agree that twice the cost for 25% increase in capacity is silly. However, it is worth noting that it is only $10 extra per 4 pack. I use a mixture of Eneloop Pro, basic Eneloop, and AmazonBasics.

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I'm not aware of the "paranoids in California" taking aim at nickel - links?

Check Prop 65 notes (http://www.oehha.ca.gov/prop65/prop65_list/0606NotNi.html) and be aware that there is an ongoing discussion about nickel. It's in the cross-hairs of legislators there.

Unless you live in a time warp, I'd hardly describe that as something that legislators will be doing. It was added to the list in 1989. With 20/20 hindsight, I think pretty much everyone I know agrees that Prop 65 is stupid. The only thing it has done is to make people ignore Prop 65 warning signs everywhere.

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Hello, I stock up for the year on Energizer Ultimate Lithium during the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many stores use batteries as loss leaders and you can get some fantastic prices on batteries. Peoria Bill :)

1/30/2015

NiMH and NiCd batteries self discharge at a MUCH faster rate than alkaline batteries or Lithium batteries. In fact, at "room temperature" (about 70 degrees F) NiMH and NiCD batteries will self discharge a few percent PER DAY. I have been out using rechargeables and to my regret found out that the battery had discharged in my pack. It is my experience that unless you charge NiMH and NiCD shortly before your next outing, you will get short life, or the battery will be discharged. I can appreciate that some folks like rechargeables, but they have been a bust for me. I can grab my GPS with a set of extra Lithiums and be sure that it will have a full charge when I need it. The only green battery is one that is recharged by solar. Plugging into to 120v also leaves a footprint.

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Hello, I stock up for the year on Energizer Ultimate Lithium during the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many stores use batteries as loss leaders and you can get some fantastic prices on batteries. Peoria Bill :)

1/30/2015

NiMH and NiCd batteries self discharge at a MUCH faster rate than alkaline batteries or Lithium batteries. In fact, at "room temperature" (about 70 degrees F) NiMH and NiCD batteries will self discharge a few percent PER DAY. I have been out using rechargeables and to my regret found out that the battery had discharged in my pack. It is my experience that unless you charge NiMH and NiCD shortly before your next outing, you will get short life, or the battery will be discharged. I can appreciate that some folks like rechargeables, but they have been a bust for me. I can grab my GPS with a set of extra Lithiums and be sure that it will have a full charge when I need it. The only green battery is one that is recharged by solar. Plugging into to 120v also leaves a footprint.

What you are referring to is the older type of NiMh batteries.

 

The new breed of LSD (low self discharge) NiMh batteries (i.e. Eneloops) addressed the issue of the older NiMh cells going flat before use.

Eneloops claim to hold up to 85% of their original charge after 1 year, and 70% after 5 years.

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I have an Oregon 550 and I have had battery issues....I can put brand new batteries in and they show maybe 2/3 full charge....I got rechargeable batteries, put in charger overnight. Put in GPS, shows 2 bars of battery. Bought new Charger & new batteries. Charged 4 batteries overnight in new charger. Put in GPS show 1-2 bars charge...SOOOOO frustrating.....

 

bonblu

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I'm not aware of the "paranoids in California" taking aim at nickel - links?

Check Prop 65 notes (http://www.oehha.ca..../0606NotNi.html) and be aware that there is an ongoing discussion about nickel. It's in the cross-hairs of legislators there.

Unless you live in a time warp, I'd hardly describe that as something that legislators will be doing. It was added to the list in 1989. With 20/20 hindsight, I think pretty much everyone I know agrees that Prop 65 is stupid. The only thing it has done is to make people ignore Prop 65 warning signs everywhere.

If you were designing packaging and product for sale in California, you'd know what a PITA this situation can be. Not that I disagree in the least about Prop 65 in general, but there's a very strict no-no list that already exists, and there is some concern that nickel could be added to that list. Why, I don't know. The other items (e.g., cadmium, beryllium, etc.) are much better understood for their toxicity.

 

I don't live in a time warp. I live in a very real time zone that is, thankfully, not Pacific Standard. That doesn't mean I don't have to deal with their antics every day.

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Got a serious question...

Is it possible that region has something to do with the use of alkaline vs rechargeable?

We've yet to find a rechargeable that lasts ONE full day during the late Fall/Winter and notice most in our area use alkalines after finding the same

Notice that quite a few who swear by rechargeables here live where there's warmer weather, so might be different when the lowest temp is 60?

There's no question that when an alkaline battery gets cold its output drops. (Seems to recover in a warm room, though.) As for lithiums, i just saw the newest and best lithium advertise 6x the life of an alkaline. Given that it costs only, say, 3x as much, i think it's a good value. Cheap batteries (unknown brands) usually perform poorly.

 

A rechargeable battery is best for things used frequently (every day) like a phone. However, a rechargeable battery that sits unused for months (especially if discharged) will be harmed and not last as long. Not so conventional batteries - the newest are advertising shelf life of up to 10 years.

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I have an Oregon 550 and I have had battery issues....I can put brand new batteries in and they show maybe 2/3 full charge....I got rechargeable batteries, put in charger overnight. Put in GPS, shows 2 bars of battery. Bought new Charger & new batteries. Charged 4 batteries overnight in new charger. Put in GPS show 1-2 bars charge...SOOOOO frustrating.....

 

bonblu

Did you set your GPS so it knows you've got rechargeable batteries in it?

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A rechargeable battery is best for things used frequently (every day) like a phone. However, a rechargeable battery that sits unused for months (especially if discharged) will be harmed and not last as long. Not so conventional batteries - the newest are advertising shelf life of up to 10 years.

 

Your information is a bit out of date here. Eneloops and other rechargeables packaged as "pre-charged" do not suffer the high rate of discharge or the memory effect that regular rechargeables do. They are great for electronics that you don't use daily because they can sit around for months and not be harmed. So let's stop dispelling the myth that rechargeable batteries are inferior, eh?

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I used rechargeables years ago, but was never thrilled with their lifespan after a few charge cycles. Switched to regular batteries for things like remote controls and flashlights, and used regular batteries when I got my GPSr. The first set of batteries didn't last long and I started calculating how much the GPSr would cost in batteries alone. I immediately started researching options and learned about Eneloops. They are certainly NOT like the rechargeables from years ago. They discharge very slowly when just sitting around, and they maintain their capacity level even after hundreds of charge cycles.

 

I use Panasonic-branded AA/AAA Eneloops in my Etrex 20, flashlights, bike lights, and walkies. I always carry a pre-charged pair of AA batteries with me when going hiking/geocaching. The cost of batteries, across the various electronics, should be recouped within a year. Besides the cost, the Eneloops save me from having to keep track of inventory and make last-minute runs to the store. It also fits my personal preference of contributing less to landfills. I'm just not a fan of throwing things in the garbage.

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I have an Oregon 550 and I have had battery issues....I can put brand new batteries in and they show maybe 2/3 full charge....I got rechargeable batteries, put in charger overnight. Put in GPS, shows 2 bars of battery. Bought new Charger & new batteries. Charged 4 batteries overnight in new charger. Put in GPS show 1-2 bars charge...SOOOOO frustrating.....

 

bonblu

 

There is a menu setting in the Setup menu to tell the device you are using rechargeable batteries vs alkalines. Change the setting to NIMH. That will correct your problem.

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After ruining more than a few electronic items, I've also learned the hard way to avoid alkaline cells altogether. Brand-new fresh alkaline blister packs from Costco in both the AA and AAA sizes have leaked, and while still in the packaging, no less. :o

 

If it can't run on Sanyo/Panasonic Eneloop or Energizer "Ultimate" Lithium cells, I don't bother. :D

 

Amen to this one....I have lost test instruments and electronics over the years.EVERYTHING I own that takes batteries has low discharge NIMH....for GPS, cameras, and other critical items I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/New-Version-Panasonic-Pro-was-Sanyo-XX-Eneloop-2550-mAh-Low-Discharge-AA-Batteries_p_2927.html

 

For clocks, remotes, toys,etc. I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/Maha-Imedion-AA-2400mAh-Rechargeablen-Low-Discharge-Batteries_p_2252.html

 

This is my all time favorite charger :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/MAHA-MH-C801D-AA--AAA-Battery-Charger-DELUXE-8-Cell-Professional-Battery-Charger-w-Full-LCD-Display_p_2559.html

 

I have a couple of these for traveling and they work fine :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/-Maha-MH-C204FA-Intelligent-Rapid-Charger_p_1105.html

 

In addition to being a GPS junkie I'm a battery / charger junkie and over the years have tried everything.....I have drawers full of product and no telling what I have thrown away. I've born the expense and done the testing so save yourself the brain damage and get the above. I will say I used MAHA NIMH reguler batteries for years with no problems but the Eneloops are a cut above. The weak link of rechargeable batteries has always been the charger.....I've used MAHA ( I own every one they make )for many years with great results.

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After ruining more than a few electronic items, I've also learned the hard way to avoid alkaline cells altogether. Brand-new fresh alkaline blister packs from Costco in both the AA and AAA sizes have leaked, and while still in the packaging, no less. :o

 

If it can't run on Sanyo/Panasonic Eneloop or Energizer "Ultimate" Lithium cells, I don't bother. :D

 

Amen to this one....I have lost test instruments and electronics over the years.EVERYTHING I own that takes batteries has low discharge NIMH....for GPS, cameras, and other critical items I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/New-Version-Panasonic-Pro-was-Sanyo-XX-Eneloop-2550-mAh-Low-Discharge-AA-Batteries_p_2927.html

 

For clocks, remotes, toys,etc. I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/Maha-Imedion-AA-2400mAh-Rechargeablen-Low-Discharge-Batteries_p_2252.html

 

This is my all time favorite charger :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/MAHA-MH-C801D-AA--AAA-Battery-Charger-DELUXE-8-Cell-Professional-Battery-Charger-w-Full-LCD-Display_p_2559.html

 

I have a couple of these for traveling and they work fine :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/-Maha-MH-C204FA-Intelligent-Rapid-Charger_p_1105.html

 

In addition to being a GPS junkie I'm a battery / charger junkie and over the years have tried everything.....I have drawers full of product and no telling what I have thrown away. I've born the expense and done the testing so save yourself the brain damage and get the above. I will say I used MAHA NIMH reguler batteries for years with no problems but the Eneloops are a cut above. The weak link of rechargeable batteries has always been the charger.....I've used MAHA ( I own every one they make )for many years with great results.

 

++++2

"Read and Heed"......Pay attention to these two posts and you will eliminate all your "battery problems" and "battery questions"........PERIOD !

 

The 20 Eneloops that I bought literally years ( 5+) ago and my Maha C9000 charger have kept 5 GPSs, 2 Cameras, 2 HAM handheld radios, multiple FRS radios all operaing flawlessly and are still going.....

PRICELESS.

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I don't have the patience for rechargables because I never remember to charge them. I use the Costco - Kirkland Signature 48 pack. I usually go through 2 packs of them a year. I remember reading an article awhile ago that stated the the Kirkland Signature AA batteries were actually re-labeled Duracel Quantum's. There is no question that they outlast the standard Duracel coppertop batteries.

 

I'll buy Energizer Ultimate Lithium's if they are on sale. They outlast anything I've ever come across by far!

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I don't have the patience for rechargables because I never remember to charge them. I use the Costco - Kirkland Signature 48 pack. I usually go through 2 packs of them a year. I remember reading an article awhile ago that stated the the Kirkland Signature AA batteries were actually re-labeled Duracel Quantum's. There is no question that they outlast the standard Duracel coppertop batteries.

Duracell Quantums were introduced in 2013. I've been buying Kirkland Signature batteries long before that. I highly doubt they're Quantums, but if you feel that they last longer than Duracells, by all means stick to them. I've had more Kirkland batteries leak than Energizers or Duracells so I tend to avoid them.

 

Recharging is easy. I come home, I swap batteries for fresh ones, and I recharge. I have so many batteries, there's always 3 or 4 extra sets sitting around in my bag. It's a trade off. Convenience compared to saving a few bucks.

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Batteries were an issue at Costco for a few years. The old Kirkland's used to leak like crazy. After several hundreds of complaints, they ditched whoever was manufacturing in early 2014 and went to a new manufacturer. Every review seems to be positive since then. I'll see if I can find that article.

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Batteries were an issue at Costco for a few years. The old Kirkland's used to leak like crazy. After several hundreds of complaints, they ditched whoever was manufacturing in early 2014 and went to a new manufacturer. Every review seems to be positive since then. I'll see if I can find that article.

That would explain it. Maybe it's time to give them a try again. Thanks.

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After ruining more than a few electronic items, I've also learned the hard way to avoid alkaline cells altogether. Brand-new fresh alkaline blister packs from Costco in both the AA and AAA sizes have leaked, and while still in the packaging, no less. :o

 

If it can't run on Sanyo/Panasonic Eneloop or Energizer "Ultimate" Lithium cells, I don't bother. :D

 

Amen to this one....I have lost test instruments and electronics over the years.EVERYTHING I own that takes batteries has low discharge NIMH....for GPS, cameras, and other critical items I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/New-Version-Panasonic-Pro-was-Sanyo-XX-Eneloop-2550-mAh-Low-Discharge-AA-Batteries_p_2927.html

 

For clocks, remotes, toys,etc. I use these :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/Maha-Imedion-AA-2400mAh-Rechargeablen-Low-Discharge-Batteries_p_2252.html

 

This is my all time favorite charger :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/MAHA-MH-C801D-AA--AAA-Battery-Charger-DELUXE-8-Cell-Professional-Battery-Charger-w-Full-LCD-Display_p_2559.html

 

I have a couple of these for traveling and they work fine :

http://www.thomasdistributing.com/-Maha-MH-C204FA-Intelligent-Rapid-Charger_p_1105.html

 

In addition to being a GPS junkie I'm a battery / charger junkie and over the years have tried everything.....I have drawers full of product and no telling what I have thrown away. I've born the expense and done the testing so save yourself the brain damage and get the above. I will say I used MAHA NIMH reguler batteries for years with no problems but the Eneloops are a cut above. The weak link of rechargeable batteries has always been the charger.....I've used MAHA ( I own every one they make )for many years with great results.

 

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I appreciate the reply. The PN-40 is definitely slow in some respects, but it got the job done. Seems like I had to use GSAK to add hints to the data I transferred to the 40. Any caveats between the PN-60 and GSAK? To my shame, it pooped out because I hadn't used it since a vacation in Summer 2013, and the batteries corroded. Plan to do some last ditch troubleshooting to make sure it is dead, but didn't have time pre-trip on Friday.

 

Don't use alkaline batteries.

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