Alkaline versus NiCd, NiMH batteries

[patrickpdk]

I bought a cordless mouse that takes 2 AAA batteries. I found that
these wear out after about 2 weeks and want to get rechargable
batteries but the device says "only use Alkaline batteries" - does this
mean that I cannot use rechargable NiCd or NiMH batteries? Will these
batteries blow up my mouse?! )

-pat

 

[.]

Greetings Pat..

Of course it depends on how tight the voltage requirements are on the
circuit. Why? Due to the fact that Ni-Cads, for example, have a voltage
of 1.2v DC per AAA cell. 1.2v * 2 = 2.4V DC fully charged vs. 1.5 * 2 =
3v DC for alkaline. Now, would the lower voltage 'hurt' the mouse - NO..
In fact, I would tend to bet that it would work just fine.

The Plan:
The way to do this would be to get two sets (4 batteries) and an
external charger that reverts to trickle charge after full charge is
achieved. Run on one set and once the mouse starts to act 'squirrelly'
due to exhausted batteries pull these out and replace them with the
freshly charged set putting the exhausted set on charge. Cycling in this
way will allow you to just rotate between fresh batteries.

A good source for batteries & small chargers:
http://www.batteriesamerica.com/

Good luck.

G.