[OSM-talk] OT: Best rechargeable batteries for low temperatures?

[Raphaël Jacquot]

Steve Bromwich wrote:
> Hi,
> 
> I was slightly disappointed this morning after a mapping session to find 
> that the rechargeable batteries in my GPS had died about 15 minutes after 
> setting off - despite reading 75% charge last night. I suspect that the 
> batteries got unhappy about the temperature (low of around -18C), so I'm 
> wondering if anyone has any recommendations for either brand or type of AA 
> battery to use in low-ish temperatures. The batteries I was using were 
> Rayovac 15 minute rechargable NiMH units, that hold a fairly beefy 2000mAh 
> (although only at the usual 1.2V). Searching around on the net I can't 
> find any specs on operating temperatures for this or any other AA battery 
> - just for industrial scale batteries (wet cell and the like).
> 
> Cheers, Steve

well, that's part of the chemistry of batteries. chemical reactions tend 
to slow down a lot when the temperature drops (which is why you have 
heating devices in satellites to keep batteries warm.

how long have you been using those batteries (that is, how many charge / 
discharge cycles) ? mebbe you arrived at the end of their useful life...