145
Appendices
Continued Q
Using the AA-size Ni-MH batteries correctly
• As a power source in digital cameras, AA-size Ni-MH
batteries (referred to hereafter as Ni-MH batteries) are
superior to alkaline batteries in several ways, such as
allowing more shots to be taken with the camera.
However, care must be taken with the way Ni-MH
batteries are used if their original performance is to be
maintained.
• Ni-MH batteries left unused in storage for long periods
can become “deactivated”. Also, repeatedly charging
Ni-MH batteries that are only partially discharged can
cause them to suffer from the “memory effect”.
Ni-MH batteries that are “deactivated” or affected by
“memory” suffer from the problem of only providing
power for a short time after being charged. To prevent
this problem, discharge and recharge them several
times using the camera’s “Discharging rechargeable
batteries” function. By repeating this cycle several
times, the temporary reduction in performance caused
by “memory” or “deactivation” can be remedied and the
batteries can be restored to their original performance
levels.
Deactivation and memory are specific to Ni-MH
batteries and are not in fact battery faults. See p.146-
147 for the procedure for “Discharging rechargeable
batteries”.
CAUTION
Do not use the “Discharging rechargeable batteries”
function when alkaline batteries being used.
• To charge Ni-MH batteries, use the quick battery
charger (sold separately). Refer to the instructions
supplied with the charger to make sure that the charger
is used correctly.
• Do not use the battery charger to charge other batte ries.
• Note that the batteries feel warm after being charged.
• Due to the way the camera is constructed, a small
amount of current is used even when the camera is
turned off. Note in particular that leaving Ni-MH
batteries in the camera for a long period will
overdischarge the batteries and may render them
unusable even after recharging.
• Ni-MH batteries will self-discharge even when not used,
and the time for which they can be used may be
shortened as a result.
• Ni-MH batteries will deteriorate rapidly if
overdischarged (e.g. by discharging the batteries in a
flashlight). Use the “Discharging rechargeable
batteries” function provided in the camera to discharge
the batteries.
• Ni-MH batteries have a limited service life. If a batter y
can only be used for a short time even after repeated
discharge-charge cycles, it may have reached the end
of its service life.
ZDisposing of Batteries
When disposing of batteries, do so in accordance with
your local waste disposal regulations.