Battery Charger AA, AAA, 9V

[colevalleytim]

I have a cheapie Energizer Battery Charger for home, won't work of a 12V auto system. I'm looking for a good system that will work at home and from the van. (might need two set-ups) Any positive/neg experiences?

2nd question, can I mix batteries across platforms? All NiM

I'm tired of having to buy 9V or AAA for laser, circuit tracker etc from the local hardware store

thanks
tim

[newman]

I use a 12v to 120v inverter to run my charger - not the most efficient way, but it works. As for batteries, the best ones are the Sanyo Enloops.
I too got tired of flashlights and high-drain devices eating alkaline batteries. Sorry, that's all I have to offer. :)

[dgbldr]

2nd question, can I mix batteries across platforms? All NiM
tim

What kind of batteries across what "platforms"? A rechargeable AA is a rechargeable AA, there is no "platform". It will work in any device that supports rechargeables, i.e. one that works with 1.2V batteries. Many devices meant for alkalines (1.5V) will not work with the lower voltage of rechargeables.

You generally can mix in the same device several batteries of different brands/chemistries/capacities but will get the lowest common denominator performance.

Some 9V rechargeables are physically bigger than alkalines, by a tiny amount, but will not fit in some devices because of it.

[traufer]

I browse through here often, but usually don't have anything much to chime in. But regarding batteries, for once I may have two cents.

I agree that the Eneloop AA and AAA batteries by Sanyo are the best. I use them (the second generation ones: 1.2v 1900mAh) for home inspections daily (digital tape recorder, digital camera, fenix flashlight, etc). I always keep spares on me, and deplete 2 - 4 batteries per week - with other brands i would go through them practically every day. They charge overnight. No car charger, and as far as I know, no 9v, but for me, that's ok.

I have tried sony and duracell AAs and AAAs. The sonys were ok but they discontinued them. The sony's would stop working (in my camera) below ~15degrees outside until i warmed them up in my pocket. The past week has been single digits every day, and the Sanyo batteries were fine, no noticeable change in performance. The duracells are junk. I still use them now and then because i have them, but I charge them in the Sanyo charger. Both nimh, and I've had no problems.

I got the Eneloops at costco, but you can also get them on amazon.

Tim R