HOW TO PROPERLY CARE FOR
NICAD CAMCORDER BATTERIES

1) Never store the batteries on the camcorder.
2) Always discharge the batteries before storing.
3) Never "Double Charge" a battery.
4) If the batteries have been stored for longer than 2 months cycle twice before using.

How do you discharge a weak battery?

To discharge put the battery on the camcorder and turn the unit on (camera mode).  
Insert a blank tape and set to record (it may only record a few minutes before shutting off).  
Switch the camcorder to the VTR position and playback until it shuts off.  
The battery is now discharged.  Remove the battery after discharging.  
This will not put unusual wear on the camcorder.

What is a double charge?

This is the term used to describe when charging a battery that is already charged or still 
has most of the previous charge in the cells.  Doing this may cause pressure to build up 
inside the battery.  If the vent in the battery opens, the battery charge will not last as long.

How to cycle a battery.

A cycle is a term used to describe one discharge followed by one charge of a battery.  
Cycling is necessary whenever a battery has been stored for two months or longer.  
NOTE:  The first two cycle times may be short in duration if the battery has been stored 
for a long time.

What does a memory on a battery mean?

The term 'memory' applies to a battery that is only partially discharged during use
 and then stored for a period of time.  Once the battery is used again after storage 
without cycling, it will shorten in usage time.  After time the battery will develop 
a chemical bridge internally on the cells (memory) which, if the pattern of usage continues, 
it will make it difficult for the battery to fully discharge or charge.  This is the most 
common customer problem with Nicad or Lead Acid batteries.

Is a battery with memory bad?

Most of the time, NO.  Try discharging the battery as described above. Or, after the 
camcorder has shut off in playback mode, eject the tape and turn the camcorder on just 
in the camera mode until it turns off.  This will discharge the battery a little 'deeper' 
than the normal procedure described above.  Then charge the battery as described by your 
owners' manual.  It may take 2, 3 or even 4 times to finally break down the chemical bridge 
in the battery.  Note the record time on your camcorder.  If you cannot retrieve up to 60% 
usage the battery may be to damaged.

To print choose file and then print
Use your back button to return to FAQ's