NiMH batteries in a 2-way radio

[Jo]

I've been searching for a two-way radio (walkie talkie) and I've found
one I really like. This particular one works on three AAA alkaline
batteries. For $10 more I can get the same radio but with rechargeable
NiMH batteries and a recharger. The recharger just plugs right into
the radio. Since I already have rechargeable batteries I figured I'd
get the cheaper one without the recharger. I was looking at the
instructions and it says this: Only use our NiMH battery.
Does that mean I'm only supposed to use their NiMH battery if I'm
using the recharger? Or does it mean I shouldn't use any NiMH battery
at all? I don't see why there would be a problem if I charge my
batteries in my own separate charger then use them in the radio. I
contacted customer service but I really don't trust any customer
service representatives to give me an honest answer. They're just paid
to say whatever will make the company more money.

 

[mark]

I've been searching for a two-way radio (walkie talkie) and I've found
one I really like. This particular one works on three AAA alkaline
batteries. For $10 more I can get the same radio but with rechargeable
NiMH batteries and a recharger. The recharger just plugs right into
the radio. Since I already have rechargeable batteries I figured I'd
get the cheaper one without the recharger. I was looking at the
instructions and it says this: Only use our NiMH battery.
Does that mean I'm only supposed to use their NiMH battery if I'm
using the recharger? Or does it mean I shouldn't use any NiMH battery
at all? I don't see why there would be a problem if I charge my
batteries in my own separate charger then use them in the radio. I
contacted customer service but I really don't trust any customer
service representatives to give me an honest answer. They're just paid
to say whatever will make the company more money.

Use what you have can't hurt.

 

[Nelson]

Use what you have can't hurt.

I have a couple of Motorola Talk-Abouts. When I use rechargeables
other than those included in the sealed pack, the battery indicator
registers only "partly charged" even when they are fully charged; and
they don't seem to last as long. Might have something to do with the
voltage. I know NiCad are only 1.2 and register low if the device is
expecting alkaline 1.5's.

 

[GregS]

They may not have their own special batteries, but they may have a
pack that contains 5 NiCD cells vs 4 alkalines. ...both approx 6
volts. (That's a general comment... I don't know about Motorola
Talk-Abouts).

The FRS radios I like opperate off AA and have a manual volume control.
Thats how my Icom FRS is. I have a pair of Midland FRS/GMRS
that opperate off AAA and have a silly PB volume control. Just awfull.

I can only say it migh be about battery mahr. Its is VERY nice though to have a charging
stand.

greg

 

[jakdedert]

I have a couple of Motorola Talk-Abouts. When I use rechargeables
other than those included in the sealed pack, the battery indicator
registers only "partly charged" even when they are fully charged; and
they don't seem to last as long. Might have something to do with the
voltage. I know NiCad are only 1.2 and register low if the device is
expecting alkaline 1.5's.

Mine have a menu option to adjust the battery indicator for either
alkaline or NiMH batteries. Check yours for same....

jak

 

[Nelson]

Mine have a menu option to adjust the battery indicator for either
alkaline or NiMH batteries. Check yours for same....

jak

Nope. Model T9580RSAME, 28 mi range. I will give Motorola credit
however. I had a set of their 14 mile range SX600 which failed when
the temp dropped below 40 degrees. They upgraded me to the 28 mi model
and shipped the replacements to me at no charge and with no hassle.
They also sent a post-paid box to ship the failed ones back for
analysis. I'd do business with them again based on that experience.