The charging of alkaline batteries was first introduced in the early 1990s. It was introduced as an alternative to the nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries. The benefits were then a higher voltage (full 1.5 volts), slow self-discharge and no "memory effect". When nickel-metal hydride (NiMh) batteries became available in the early 2000s, the benefits of charging alkaline batteries diminished.
Compared to NiCad batteries, Nimh batteries had higher capacity, more charge cycles, and little or no memory effect. The advantage of charging alkaline batteries has further diminished with the advent of "hybrid or pre-charged batteries". Hybrid batteries are Nimh batteries whose design results in some changes, resulting in a slightly lower capacity than the standard NiMh, but with the advantage of slower self-discharge. Due to the lower benefits, most manufacturers have discontinued their RAM batteries and chargers. However, RAM and alkaline batteries are still available and considered environmentally friendly. The most popular manufacturers offering RAM batteries and chargers are IGo, AccuCell and Pure Energy. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of alkaline and RAM batteries.
Pros:
preloaded
Slow self-discharge
Environmentally friendly (less toxic metals)
Full 1.5 volts, if new
Disadvantage:
Long charging time (10-16 hours)
Higher risk of leaks during loading and during use
Must be charged after only partial use (the less consumption before charging the better)
Significant reduction in running time after every charging cycle
Requires a charger specially designed for alkaline batteries
Fewer charge cycles (based on discharge to <50% of its usable capacity)
Poor performance with high drain devices
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