On Mon, 13 Sep 2004 06:07:43 +0000, Ross Oliver wrote:

First, let me say great comparison. I googled for this very topic and
stumbled on this thread. So, thanks!

Second, I'm sorry to jump in, but I didn't think you would mind.

[snip]
If you will be using the radio and charging the batteries regularly,
then NiMH is a good choice. However, if you plan to throw the radio in
your flight bag and expect it to work six months from now (especially
for transmitting), the NiMH batteries will have long since
self-discharged. Alkalines have a long shelf life, but are heavier, and
the A23 at least will not transmit at all when powered by alkalines.


Why would the A23 prevent someone from transmitting when using alkalines?
Most nicads only put out 1.2 volts. Really nice nicads will put out ~1.25
volts, but tend to be very expenseive (for batteries) and much harder to
find. An alkaline puts out 1.5 volts. The difference in power may
make the difference between transmitting at full power (5 watts) and
transmitting at something much less.

Also, power density for alkalines is normally much higher than what you
typically find for nicads. Which means, generally speaking, a set of
alkalines will last longer when it's in use; though clearly I am making
some assumptions here. And, as you rightly pointed out, a set of
alkalines can last a very long time in a flight bag. Whereas, a set of
nicads will be almost fully discharged within 30-60 days; again, depending
on your batteries.

Alkaline batteries also slowly discharge, whereas, nicads act like they
jumped off a cliff when nearly discharged. This means, with a set of
alkalines, you can usually pick and choose when you want to change your
batteries. Not to mention, you'll generally know when it's time. With a
set of nicads, you may be transmitting fine one second, only to find that
your batteries are completely dead the next.

Long story show, your comment struck me as odd. Is the transmission
limitation built into the radio's electronics or did it come from a
personal observation? What's the basis for your comment?

Thanks in advance,

Greg