User Guide to Rechargeable Batteries; From Uniross the Rechargeable Specialists

Uniross, December, 2005

What are the benefits of using rechargeable batteries vs. disposable batteries?
Uniross rechargeable batteries offer a whole host of benefits over disposable batteries, but there are 4 key benefits to consider: Convenience, Long Life, Savings, and the fact that they are Environmentally Sound.
• Convenience: Uniross rechargeable batteries can last up to 5x longer on each charge than disposable batteries when used in high drain devices like digital cameras, which means you need to change batteries much less frequently.
• Long Life: Uniross batteries last up to 3 years when recharged regularly as directed. And only Uniross Rechargeable Batteries feature a 3 year limited warranty.
• Savings: One Uniross rechargeable is equivalent to more than 500 disposable batteries. The payback on purchasing a charger and batteries is after using them just twice…and then you keep saving for up to 3 years.
• Environmentally Sound: Up to 1000 less disposable batteries go to landfills for every Uniross rechargeable battery used.

Are rechargeables more efficient than standard alkaline batteries?
If you use a lot of batteries for high drain devices such as digital cameras, CD and MP3 players, video games, or other electronics, there is a large efficiency gain in using Uniross rechargeables. Uniross rechargeable batteries can last up to 5x longer on each charge than disposables, and they can be recharged regularly for up to 3 years.

Can you use rechargeable batteries in all devices that typically use alkaline batteries?
Yes, you can substitute higher capacity rechargeables into most devices that use standard alkaline batteries. Ideally, rechargeable batteries should be substituted in high drain devices like digital cameras, MP3 players, portable electronics, etc. Alkaline batteries are better suited for slow-drain devices such as nonrechargeable emergency flashlights or smoke detectors.

What is the difference between rechargeable alkaline batteries and Ni-MH rechargeable batteries?
Rechargeable alkaline batteries provide lower performance than ordinary alkaline batteries but can be recharged up to about 20 times. Uniross Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) rechargeable batteries can be recharged for up to 3 years. In fact, Uniross backs this with an industry leading 3 year battery life limited warranty. In addition, if a rechargeable alkaline battery is discharged entirely, there is a strong risk that it can no longer be used and will have to be disposed of.

Further, a rechargeable alkaline battery cannot be used for equipment using high current (digital cameras, flashes, etc.). It is unsuitable for fast charging and needs to be recharged in chargers designed specifically for the purpose. Otherwise, it could allow corrosive electrolyte to escape and damage the charger.

How many times can a rechargeable battery be used/ recharged?
Uniross Ni-MH batteries can be recharged by the average user for up to 3 years when used as directed, and they can last up to 5x longer than alkaline batteries when used in high drain devices like digital cameras. Compare that to having to purchase disposable batteries over and over again.

How much performance improvement can I expect using Uniross Ni-MH batteries instead of other batteries on my high drain device like a digital camera?
Uniross Ni-MH batteries are designed for power intensive applications. Uniross Ni-MH batteries maintain their power during most of their usage. In other words, Uniross Ni-MH batteries maintain a high and consistent voltage during most of their discharge. With alkaline batteries, the voltage drops rapidly when used in power intensive applications such as digital cameras. This explains why you can only take 30-40 pictures in some cameras using alkaline batteries, while you can take up to 200 pictures in the same camera using Uniross Ni-MH batteries.

How long does it take to recharge batteries?
Uniross offers a variety of chargers that allow you to recharge as quickly as you need: from value priced overnight chargers to high speed 15 minute chargers. The best way to manage your power needs is by having 2 sets of rechargeable batteries. This way you can have a spare set ready to use all the time so you will never run out. Uniross also manufacturers in-car chargers so that you can recharge at home or on the road.

What are the environmental advantages in using rechargeable batteries vs. disposable batteries?
Disposable batteries may produce the following potential problems or hazards:
• Pollute the lakes and streams as the metals vaporize into the air when burned.
• Contribute to heavy metals that potentially may leach from solid waste landfills.
• Expose the environment and water to lead and acid.
• Contain strong corrosive acids.
• May cause burns or danger to eyes and skin.

Using rechargeable batteries reduces household waste. Billions of ordinary batteries are thrown away every year, all of which end up in landfills. Uniross rechargeable batteries can be reused hundreds of times which helps reduce the impact disposable batteries have on the environment. Up to 1000 less disposable batteries go to landfills for every Uniross rechargeable battery used.

What types of devices are ideal for rechargeables?
Uniross rechargeable batteries will replace ordinary batteries in almost any appliance. Rechargeable batteries are particularly well-suited for high-drain appliances such as digital cameras. Other products that are ideal for rechargeables include mobile electronics like MP3 players, a Walkman, a portable CD player, radio cassette players, portable GPS devices, walkie talkies, remote controlled (RC) toys, electronic games, portable telephones, electric razors, etc.

Do Uniross rechargeable batteries have a memory effect that can lower their capacity?
No. You can discharge and recharge your Uniross rechargeable batteries whenever you want and they will maintain their high capacity. Older technology rechargeables did suffer from a problem where if the battery had not been entirely emptied, the charge would not be complete and would set a new lower energy capacity.

Do Uniross rechargeable batteries need to be charged before using them?
Just as with a new cell phone or other appliance that uses rechargeable batteries, you need to charge them before their first use.

For more information on Uniross products, please visit www.uniross.com.