I've always thought rechargables and regular cells are the same when you use them both 100% on my SB-800 but I never really used a rechargable before. So which do you think based on experience is more long lasting or better; a rechargable battery or a regular cell for your detachable flashes?

i use rechargeable ansmann 2600 mah, it's good for approximately 200-300 shots.

sanyo 2300's

my 4pcs powerbase 1800 - also lasts as long.

been meaning to try those ansmanns

8 pcs Powerbase 2300mah each set of four is good for up to 500 shots. Fast cycle times as well!

Peace!

I am using Ansmann and my only problem with them is the recycling time which may not be fast enough for an immediate second shot. My friends swear by the fast recycling times provided by their Lithium ions and the fact that they don't loose their charge even if you don't use them after some time. They are more expensive though but they deliver all the time.

Thanks for the input Arnel, Ken and Aris, i'll try to check those brands out.

For recycling times I use a fifth battery but even without them the Lithium ions deliver what i need like Nap just said, but disposables are getting way expensive.

I use 10 Sanyo 2300 mAh battery for my SB-800...

I use 10 Sanyo 2300 mAh battery for my SB-800...
I see, how is the pop count and recycling speed?

Hey migs, I'm using a Panasonic 2100 mAH which lasts at around 200-300 shots. Recycle time is aroun 2-3 seconds when fired at full power. :)

I have not accounted it, but that's all I need for a whole day of shoot. Flash in TTL mode gives more shots. Not using the diffuser also add to the battery life. With the diffuser, the flash needs to give off more power.

I guess that does it.

Btw, I always use flash, even in daylight for the fills.

Thanks for the input guys, hopefully I get to try those brands and come up with a resolution.

I just bought Uniross 2300mah rechargeable batteries from my recent overseas trip. Been using it for the SB-800, so it far works ok. Though Ive yet to test how many shots I'd get off from them.

Is it ok to use a normal alkaline battery as the 5th battery when it's used together with 4 rechargeable batteries?

^ Hmm i'm not sure Gerard but logically all the batteries should be at the same energy level for them to bring out optimal performance.

I use Energizer 2500mAh batteries on my SB800. Honestly have no basis for comparison since these are the only batteries I use. I rarely use more than 1 set (5pcs.) of batteries a day. :)

i also use 10 energizer rechargable batteries 2500mah for my sb800. didn't count the shots on how long it would go though.

I can only say that the Ansmann 2600s don't seem to run out of power. I had them on my flash for about a month with use, and they still had charge.

I use the Ansmann 2400 batteries and they have served me well so far. They really give you your money's worth :)

Nice inputs guys. Thanks Brent, sometimes I had to leave the battery in the SB for certain cases, I had this experience before on an electrical gadget that the battery melted inside after leaving it within 24hrs. So I guess with Ansmann its alright.

for my SB800 i was using sanyo 2500's then i shifted to ansmann 2600's. i would say that the ansmann is a real performer. a very good investment. :)

Energizer 2500s

Duracell 2650's

Only four Energizer 2500mAh batteries for my 430EX. These batts last for two consecutive weddings.

10 Sony 2300s :)

Energizer 2500s. I'm thinking of getting the 2700mah Ansmanns

Whatever batteries you use, I suggest you get a charger that displays the charge and/or voltage of the individual cells. That way, you know if you're batteries are still good and you can throw away the underperforming ones. One bad battery can severely hamper the performance of your set.

HTH

Whatever batteries you use, I suggest you get a charger that displays the charge and/or voltage of the individual cells. That way, you know if you're batteries are still good and you can throw away the underperforming ones. One bad battery can severely hamper the performance of your set.

HTH

This is a very good suggestion. I have three different chargers though and buying another charger would be impractical for me at this time. I am thinking of a tester that electricians use to test continuity, resistance, voltage, etc. I think the simplest model would be less than a thousand. It will let me know the voltage, current rating, etc. Just a thought.:)

I wonder... where can we get this external battery for our SB-800?

Whatever batteries you use, I suggest you get a charger that displays the charge and/or voltage of the individual cells. That way, you know if you're batteries are still good and you can throw away the underperforming ones. One bad battery can severely hamper the performance of your set.

HTH

Agree to that Zandy! I use a battery power meter to test dead/good batteries :)

I use ULTRALAST (NiMH) 2600mAh and RAYOVAC (NiMH) 2300mAh

Well, using a VOM will not allow you to test for current easily. It's a messy procedure. BUT... using the DC volt range of your meter, you can test a battery if it is still good or not.

You need to finish up your battery. Do not discharge them by shorting terminal. Just used them and when they do not operate anymore, we use this method. Here's how..

Measure the voltage observing correct polarity. A healty NiMH should not go below 1 Volt DC.

When one in your set is deffective, replace the whole set.


This is a very good suggestion. I have three different chargers though and buying another charger would be impractical for me at this time. I am thinking of a tester that electricians use to test continuity, resistance, voltage, etc. I think the simplest model would be less than a thousand. It will let me know the voltage, current rating, etc. Just a thought.:)

Thanks for the tip bro. I just called the local supplier of Sanwa testers and apparently the cheapest one still costs P1900.00 and it's in Binondo pa.

Thanks for the tip bro. I just called the local supplier of Sanwa testers and apparently the cheapest one still costs P1900.00 and it's in Binondo pa.

Doc Nap,

Ingat lang po sa mga fake na Sanwa testers...daming nagkalat sa Manila. The original Sanwa testers would cost around 5,000 - 7,500 pesos.

Willing Company something?

If you are not going to be a full time or part time Electronic Enthusiast, I suggest getting those Wheeler brand. Better than SUNWA (not Sanwa)... The digital one cost only 800Php.

And it is available at Raon or Deeco.

where do you buy your ansmanns?

you may buy ansmann in hidalgo, Acel, Mayer and others carry ansmann products.

I beg to disagree. The Sanwa YX-360TRD Analog VOM, commonly used by Electronic Technicians costs 1,900.00 at Willing Enterprise, the local distributor of Sanwa.

Just get from Reputable stores. And mind you, there are no fake Sanwa. The fakes are named SUNWA.

Doc Nap,

Ingat lang po sa mga fake na Sanwa testers...daming nagkalat sa Manila. The original Sanwa testers would cost around 5,000 - 7,500 pesos.

I beg to disagree. The Sanwa YX-360TRD Analog VOM, commonly used by Electronic Technicians costs 1,900.00 at Willing Enterprise, the local distributor of Sanwa.

Just get from Reputable stores. And mind you, there are no fake Sanwa. The fakes are named SUNWA.

Sorry i was thinking about the Sanwa DIGITAL MULTIMETER :)

Yup may be that's the name of the FAKE Sanwa....."SUNWA"....hehehe....di pala SANWA mismo ang fake. Pero it's sounds the same diba?
And yes Mr. Rolando is right that Willing Enterprises, Inc. is the main distributor of SANWA Multitesters.

Sanyo 2500mah
Energizer 2500mah (more long lasting)

Just curious, has anyone tried using the Energizer Lithium batteries? How long do they last? :)

I never use chargeble battery. I use only ultra alkaline battery and it is good only for one coverage. everytime I have a wedding coverage I always use a new battery since I had a bad experience of chargeble batteries.

I never used chargeble battery. I use only ultra alkaline battery and it is good only for one coverage. everytime a have a wedding coverage I always use a new battery since I had a bad experience of chargeble batteries.

what would that bad experience be? if you don't mind sharing, Allan...

what would that bad experience be? if you don't mind sharing, Allan...

I covered a high end wedding package, all my batteries are new chargeable, (forgive me not to mention the brand) and charge them overnight. On the wedding day I was using it at bride’s residence for preparation shots and it’s very ok. At the church, I replace the battery for entourage shots and still no problem. But on the wedding rite the problem arise, my flash doesn’t work, buti na lang I have 3 back-up photogs as I browse their shots on PC they have shots of the ceremony which is the very important shots of the wedding. I didn’t use anymore on chargeable batteries after those experiences. I told this to some veteran photographer and they advice me not to use chargeable on especial occasions like weddings. Further they said that if you insist to use chargeable batteries be sure to check the manufacturing date before buying cause chargeable will only last for 1 year and effectiveness of 6months only.

I covered a high end wedding package, all my batteries are new chargeable, (forgive me not to mention the brand) and charge them overnight. On the wedding day I was using it at bride’s residence for preparation shots and it’s very ok. At the church, I replace the battery for entourage shots and still no problem. But on the wedding rite the problem arise, my flash doesn’t work, buti na lang I have 3 back-up photogs as I browse their shots on PC they have shots of the ceremony which is the very important shots of the wedding. I didn’t use anymore on chargeable batteries after those experiences. I told this to some veteran photographer and they advice me not to use chargeable on especial occasions like weddings. Further they said that if you insist to use chargeable batteries be sure to check the manufacturing date before buying cause chargeable will only last for 1 year and effectiveness of 6months only.

That is why having a charger that tells you if your batteries are still holding a decent charge is very important. Having a bad cell can ruin the entire set and thus your shoot.

Rechargables also needs to be refreshed once in a while if you see that it doesn't hold that much charge anymore (which is what may have happened)

Having said that, I highly recommend the LaCrosse Technology BC-900 AlphaPower Battery Charger. I've been using it for a couple of years now and it has enabled me to throw away my dud batteries and keep my good ones in tip-top shape(I sound like an advertisement :)).
http://www.amazon.com/LaCrosse-Technology-BC-900-AlphaPower-Charger/dp/B00077AA5Q

regards,

Having said that, I highly recommend the LaCrosse Technology BC-900 AlphaPower Battery Charger. I've been using it for a couple of years now and it has enabled me to throw away my dud batteries and keep my good ones in tip-top shape(I sound like an advertisement :)).


That you do, Zandy! j/k! :D That is one highly recommended charger (I don't think I ever read a negative review about it.) but I personally opted for the Maha 8 battery charger ( http://www.thomas-distributing.com/maha-mh-c801d-battery-charger.htm) since the SB800 takes 5 batteries. :)

That is why having a charger that tells you if your batteries are still holding a decent charge is very important. Having a bad cell can ruin the entire set and thus your shoot.

Rechargables also needs to be refreshed once in a while if you see that it doesn't hold that much charge anymore (which is what may have happened)

Having said that, I highly recommend the LaCrosse Technology BC-900 AlphaPower Battery Charger. I've been using it for a couple of years now and it has enabled me to throw away my dud batteries and keep my good ones in tip-top shape(I sound like an advertisement :)).
http://www.amazon.com/LaCrosse-Technology-BC-900-AlphaPower-Charger/dp/B00077AA5Q

regards,

Thanks for this info, I need this very much to reduce my expenses of batteries specialy this coming december, I'm fully booked of weddings and christmas parties.

sony 2100's
sanyo 2500's
fuji 2100's
maxwell 2100's

planning to get the energizer 15 min charger pack. any first hand experience on this?

planning to get the energizer 15 min charger pack. any first hand experience on this?

I have one, have only used it when I was out-of-town. It worked as advertised. If you really need your batts asap, it's a great charger. But didn't use my flash extensively then so can't vouch for battery life. :) Not something I would use though in a regular basis. My Maha charger conditions my batteries so I prefer using that one. :Grin:

hi guys

what is the price range of those rechargeable batteries preferably sanyo/ ansmann? and what is recommend maH for sb800? tia

Sanyo 2600mah for my SB600... you can find it in EXTRA EXTRA or GAREER books store migs. last info... PANASONIC 2400mah, sony 2100mah and GP battery 1800mah... so far this the only stable battery i've ever used.


buddy

Currently using Energizer 2500s. Planning to test the Ansmann brand soon.

i also use 10 energizer rechargable batteries 2500mah for my sb800. didn't count the shots on how long it would go though.

is it a good buy? thinking of buying this bats,, around php1,800.00 with 1 hour charger and 4 2500mAH enrgizer

@zandy, just today i read about a possible problem with a charger - i think it might be the bc-900. ill post later, ill look for the link.

saw it: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1036&thread=21320289

i hope the Sony rechargeable AA Batteries + Sony Super Quick Charger (High Capacity 2500mAh) are enough for my sb800.

You can check this out (http://aljacobs.com/THE%20BLACK%20BOX.htm). Proves helpful in weddings and Off-cam flashes.

Ansmann Batteries :)

@zandy, just today i read about a possible problem with a charger - i think it might be the bc-900. ill post later, ill look for the link.
Thanks Aris!

I'll definitely keep an eye on it now but I've had mine (two of them) for a while and never had a problem.

Unfortunately there is no other charger in the market that offers the same features for the money.

That is why having a charger that tells you if your batteries are still holding a decent charge is very important. Having a bad cell can ruin the entire set and thus your shoot.

Rechargables also needs to be refreshed once in a while if you see that it doesn't hold that much charge anymore (which is what may have happened)

Having said that, I highly recommend the LaCrosse Technology BC-900 AlphaPower Battery Charger. I've been using it for a couple of years now and it has enabled me to throw away my dud batteries and keep my good ones in tip-top shape(I sound like an advertisement :)).
http://www.amazon.com/LaCrosse-Technology-BC-900-AlphaPower-Charger/dp/B00077AA5Q

regards,

Thanks Zandy! I'm buying this today.

i use sanyo advance 2500 and sanyo 1700 plus kirkland alkaline batteries for back-up...the 2500s lasted me 400shots on an event...and the 1700 lasted me more or less 200shots...

MIG's... rechargeables (2300's - 2600's) lasts longer... but alkalines still provide faster recycling time (especially if I'm doing multiple bursts).

Sanyo 2500 (replaced) - drains quickly even if your not using it.
Kodak 2500(backup) - so-so performance
Moden 2500(current) - good performance and retains power even after storing for a long time...don't know how it compares with Ansmann or Energizers

Uses La-Crosse charger (useful in finding dud batteries.)

hi guys

what is the price range of those rechargeable batteries preferably sanyo/ ansmann? and what is recommend maH for sb800? tia


Reviving this thread -- particularly the question of Don.

Would like to know what long-time off-cam flash users would recommend as well. A tip from the proprietor where I got the SB800 is not to use 'high-powered' rechargeables, and stick with lower than 2100mAh's or use alkalines. That way, I won't be easily frying the electronics of it, so it would last long (that tip is also on the manual).

Your opinions on this? If installed, would the 5th battery chamber be effective in improving recycle time, even if, say, 1800mAh-2100mAh rechargeables are used?

Currently using Ansmann Schumacher 2700 mAh.

Currently using Ansmann Schumacher 2700 mAh.

@angelo

how much are these? and how long it takes to full charge them? thanks!

@angelo

how much are these? and how long it takes to full charge them? thanks!

Got them on sale for 590 here:

http://digitalphotographer.com.ph/forum/showthread.php?t=18902&highlight=ansmann

I haven't exactly timed the charging duration. It's mostly charger dependent.

I covered a high end wedding package, all my batteries are new chargeable, (forgive me not to mention the brand) and charge them overnight. On the wedding day I was using it at bride’s residence for preparation shots and it’s very ok. At the church, I replace the battery for entourage shots and still no problem. But on the wedding rite the problem arise, my flash doesn’t work, buti na lang I have 3 back-up photogs as I browse their shots on PC they have shots of the ceremony which is the very important shots of the wedding. I didn’t use anymore on chargeable batteries after those experiences. I told this to some veteran photographer and they advice me not to use chargeable on especial occasions like weddings. Further they said that if you insist to use chargeable batteries be sure to check the manufacturing date before buying cause chargeable will only last for 1 year and effectiveness of 6months only.

If you these kind of event you must prepare.
Charge all batteries that you have and make sure that you will not over use them, for me 100 shots are enough for 5pcs. of battery for my SB800 to have a consistent power and must always backup another sets.

A backup new disposable batteries must prepare in case of emergency, u may encountered a dropped charge of your rechargeable batteries.

An old rechargeable maybe one year life if you overuse it.
Throw it and replace with new if you don't to encountered problem.

For me as of now I used a disposable batteries as the weather here is becoming cold your charge batteries are unpredictable..

Did I'm correct!!!

Got them on sale for 590 here:

http://digitalphotographer.com.ph/forum/showthread.php?t=18902&highlight=ansmann

I haven't exactly timed the charging duration. It's mostly charger dependent.


Hi Angelo,

I am still hesitant to use these with the SB800 due to the reason I stated in my earlier post (currently using alkaline batteries), but I appreciate the vote of confidence with the 2700Mah Ansmann Shum's (still on 50% promo at Brightstar).

Btw, +1 on Brightstar's customer service.

Cheers! :)

Hi Angelo,

I am still hesitant to use these with the SB800 due to the reason I stated in my earlier post (currently using alkaline batteries), but I appreciate the vote of confidence with the 2700Mah Ansmann Shum's (still on 50% promo at Brightstar).

Btw, +1 on Brightstar's customer service.

Cheers! :)

Hi Erick,

The frying of the electronics is mainly because of two things:
1. User Usage (high speed flashing)
2. Discharge Rating

The 2700mAH is just the capacity of the battery, which has no bearing whatsover in frying the electronics. If you shoot super high speed like there's no tomorrow, regardless of what battery you will use, the electronics will surely fry. I tested this one with two flashes, the SB800 and a 550EX and 2850 Ansmann. No problems on flash shooting whatsoever.

+2 on Brightsar's Customer Service

i agree, it's mostly user usage or you just have a lemon flash.

a higher discharge rating usually means a higher rate of charging your flash capacitor which makes you want to pop pop pop your flash.

currently using ansmann schumis on the sb800.

I appreciate the solid feedback from you guys. Thanks.

If you these kind of event you must prepare.
Charge all batteries that you have and make sure that you will not over use them, for me 100 shots are enough for 5pcs. of battery for my SB800 to have a consistent power and must always backup another sets.

A backup new disposable batteries must prepare in case of emergency, u may encountered a dropped charge of your rechargeable batteries.

An old rechargeable maybe one year life if you overuse it.
Throw it and replace with new if you don't to encountered problem.

For me as of now I used a disposable batteries as the weather here is becoming cold your charge batteries are unpredictable..

Did I'm correct!!!

A battery tester/analyzer would be a great help. I got one from CDR-King, only costs 50 Pesos!