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View Full Version : Batteries and the life of a digicam...


coopdig
08-12-2006, 09:21 PM
Hi all! I've enjoyed this sight for some time and, having finally decided to make the move towards purchasing a digital camera, have decided to register and post my first question in the forums! (Be gentle...)

So, all other things aside, my primary concern with getting a digital camera is that it should be one that lasts. I'd like to think that, if I take good care of it, I could use the camera I get now for the next five or more years, whether I get another one later on down the line or not.

Now, it seems to me that the main thing to worry about in this regard is the batteries a digital camera uses. E.g., I'm confident that AA bateries will be around in five years (though maybe I shouldn't be!); however, it seems less likely that the lithium-ion type batteries made exclusively for individual models of digital camer (particularly the different ultra-compact models) will continue to be manufactured for as long. Thus, I worry about the idea that, while my digital camera might function perfectly for the next 5+ years, it'll become useless once my battery finally dies.

For a number of reasons, I've been leaning towards getting an ultra-compact and would still, ideally, like to go this route; I see that there are some that take AA batteries (e.g., the Sony W50, I think?). However, I wonder if my worries about special batteries is unwarranted; if so, my range of options would be greatly increased and I'd probably be able to get something more to my liking (I'd been thinking of getting a fujifilm f30).

Any thoughts on the matter?
Thanks in advance!

Cooper

timmciglobal
08-13-2006, 12:11 AM
The chances of you killing a battery before just buying a new camera is minimal.

If your worried about the battery, buy a second or third one and keep it stored away.

Tim

pas49ras
08-13-2006, 05:48 AM
I see that there are some that take AA batteries (e.g., the Sony W50, I think?). However, I wonder if my worries about special batteries is unwarranted; if so, my range of options would be greatly increased and I'd probably be able to get something more to my liking (I'd been thinking of getting a fujifilm f30).

The Sony W50 takes proprietary batteries (not AA'S). They're expensive ($45 a pop) and you should consider having a second one as a back-up.You can't use "regular batteries" to get you through the day in an emergency. Unfortunately these batteries are "par for the course" on most all ultra-compacts like the W50. I wouldn't work much about the batteries becoming obselete as long as the camera of your choice is made by one of the major camera makers. As Tim said, the battery should outlast the camera if cared for.