Choosing the Right Battery for Your Needs
When you’re looking for a battery for your particular application, there are a number of factors that you’ll need to consider. Not all batteries are the same, and certain ones are better suited to specific uses. Depending on the type of device you’re powering, you may need a primary battery or a secondary rechargeable one. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision when choosing the right battery for your needs.
Primary Batteries vs. Rechargeable Batteries
The first decision you’ll have to make is whether you want to choose a primary battery or a rechargeable one. The primary battery is a non-rechargeable type that is usually used to power smoke alarms, remote controls for television and other small electronic devices. This type of battery contains a chemical inside that converts to electricity when activated. These are usually the lowest cost option.
The rechargeable type is a bit more expensive but can be used over and over again. They are often used in remote-control toys, digital camera flash units, and low-power video cameras. Generally, rechargeable batteries last longer than the primary type, so there is usually a higher overall cost savings to be had with them.
Types of Batteries
After you’ve determined whether you want a primary or rechargeable battery, you’ll need to decide on the type or chemistry. This is very important, as a battery designed for one use may not be suitable for another.
The most commonly used primary battery today is the alkaline type. These are considered high-quality power sources, so they tend to be quite a bit more expensive than the zinc-carbon variants. They are designed for low-drain devices, so they are not well suited for those items that require high amounts of power.
For rechargeable batteries, the lead-acid type is usually the popular choice. These batteries are essentially two lead plates immersed in sulfuric acid, which creates electricity when activated. This type of battery is ideal for large-scale applications such as automotive use.
The most popular type of rechargeable battery today is the nickel-cadmium (NiCad) variety. These are used for small devices like handheld games, remote control devices, and PDAs. In the past, these batteries were the only viable option for rechargeable power sources. These days, nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries are becoming increasingly popular.
The NiMH battery is essentially the same as the NiCad, with the main difference being that it contains no cadmium. This results in less environmental impact, as cadmium is known to be toxic to the human body. Additionally, NiMH batteries tend to have higher capacities and a longer operational life than NiCad batteries.
Conclusion
The type of battery you choose is very important, and is usually determined by the type of device you’re powering. If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, primary batteries may be the way to go. For those applications requiring more power, rechargeables are the better option. Take the time to do your research and ensure you’re getting the right battery for your needs.