About batteries, I tried car recharging with lowest specification mentioned as effective rechargeables and it did not work. Stronger batteries?
497128
You did not say what batteries or charger you are using so it's impossible to tell why you are having trouble. I use NiMH rechargeables. The silver Energizer's seem to last longer than Duracell's but both will power the unit for a day's use.
497129
The Dakota (and Oregon) models do NOT provide for recharging batteries while in the unit. A DC power supply may provide supplementary power while you're in your vehicle possibly extending internal battery power somewhat, but I get 6-12 hours pers use on one set of fully charged NiMH. Personally, I carry a spare pair of charged AA's AND a pair of alkalines just in case.
806710
I purchased mine in 2007 and only recharged when it dropped below the green (which was not often). I never had a problem getting the battery to charge to 100% until recently when I accidently hit the inverter ON switch before closing up the car and drained the battery. Now it will only charge a little over 50%. I primarily use this for the compressor although I will likely buy a replacement just for the peace of mind of having a jump start capability. I considered replacing the battery as well but figure it probably isn't worth the hassle, but if anybody tried it, let me know how it turned out! I purchased mine in 2007 and only recharged when it dropped below the green (which was not often). I never had a problem getting the battery to charge to 100% until recently when I accidently hit the inverter ON switch before closing up the car and drained the battery. Now it will only charge a little over 50%. I primarily use this for the compressor although I will likely buy a replacement just for the peace of mind of having a jump start capability. I considered replacing the battery as well but figure it probably isn't worth the hassle, but if anybody tried it, let me know how it turned... » Read More I purchased mine in 2007 and only recharged when it dropped below the green (which was not often). I never had a problem getting the battery to charge to 100% until recently when I accidently hit the inverter ON switch before closing up the car and drained the battery. Now it will only charge a little over 50%. I primarily use this for the compressor although I will likely buy a replacement just for the peace of mind of having a jump start capability. I considered replacing the battery as well but figure it probably isn't worth the hassle, but if anybody tried it, let me know how it turned out! « Show Less
1248960
I have a larger battery in my truck and this item will not keep it charged at all times. The charge is too weak. I doubt it can keep up as an on the go charger with 2 batteries......
1253060
Charles, I have not yet used my product. There has just been too much snow outdoors. I will wait until late Spring before I give it a try. In answer to your question about batteries, I would suggest not to use a rechargeable. Use a regular alkaline battery instead. It has something to do with the electrical discharge.
989586
James, really don't know much about re-chargable batteries, so I am sorry I can't help! Other reviewers may have the answers you're looking for.
1399047
Please note that car batteries are for starting: a high load for a short time. It will work with an inverter but will be ruined by low load over a longer period of time. For anything other than occasional use you need a "deep cycle" type of battery.
744999
i've used it with both rechargable and AA batteries. the AA worked for me, but had two negatives in comparison to the rechargables: it felt heavier, and the battery life was shorter. if your adapter for the AA isnt working properly, it might be the unit. have you tried using the rechargable batteries?
61307
I tried the rechargeable AA and they worked fine. The ceiling light wasn't the problem...it was the remote "wall switch" that wasn't any good. I would use it once or twice, and the battery would be dead. Bought replacement batteries at two different stores (in case batteries hadn't moved off store shelf and were old), and the same thing happened. Very disappointing.
1090818
regular batteries don't seem to last nearly as long, rechargeable batteries really do seem to last much longer.
782230
Michael, because these are Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), they have a memory. In other words they remember how low their charge gets, before they are recharged, Charging them too soon, will prevent you from getting all the battery has to offer. Try to charge them when they get very low. That way you'll get the longest life from them. Keep in mind that the hotter the batteries get, the more internal damage occurs. Try not to let them get too hot. Their life cycle will be shortened. Use them, charge them, and then use them again is probably the best bet, unless you have some sophisticated temperature, current and an adjustable charger at hand. Norm
1237918
The batteries we use are deep cell batteries that would be used on campers not conventional batteries that are used in cars or trucks. I would follow the suggestions of the previous answer, one mor e note I went and bought a better Charge Controller from Renogy works much better and you have a lcd panel with all the data you need to be sure your battery and cell are working properly.
1269385
I have lacrosse AA rechargable batteries and Eneloop batteries, both with higher capacities (I think 2500mH). I tried to use both and was unable too because the rechargable batteries are just barely too big. I did successfully shove one in, had a horrible time getting it back out and did not try again. I would guess that there are brands and/or possibly lower capacity rechargable so that are just a tad smaller than mine that do fit. This is why you are seeing different opinions.
1632985
Hi Jay, Could you send me photos ? In fact, you should consider the pins that make contact with power of Radio and the pins for recharge. ( when you put in base to recharge) The main problem of this batteries is because it is more wide than radio support. It forces the back cover of radio, and it not ease to close when you put it in radio. You need you tape to fix it. ( the radio look likes a old radio - terrible ) Another point is check the voltagem and mainly the electronic current, that for this product is 700mAh. Please if you want you can send my a email with photos. andregamaral@bol.com.br Regards Andr
177074
Impossible to answer that question. It all depends on the condition of the cars and their batteries. I always recharge mine after each use to keep the battery in good condition.
1760921
You might also try using rechargeable batteries. I use those exclusively now. For whatever reason, they just seem to work a lot better.
1113505
i was told years ago about the memories in batteries , then told the new batteries dont , but i still go by the old info , & have great success with batteries , i have many of them , different brands , & i get many years out of them , also i do not use rapid chargers , a slow charge is always the best , just like with car , & cell phone batteries
1439842
You have read correctly! I hadn't paid any attention to the details until this query popped up. Try substituting lithium nickel hydride as the electrolyte combination and the chemistry makes sense. This affects the recharging characteristics in a positive way. Pure lithium batteries are hard to maintain and have a shorter life. In short; the batteries from De Walt and others are designed to last and do the job well. I have no complaints and do recycle the used ones through my local dealer.