 The Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery was introduced as another option to the Nickel-Cadmium batteries. Like Ni-Cds, NiMH batteries are available in the standard cylindrical sizes (AA, AAA, etc.). They differ from Ni-Cds, however, in that they are capable of a higher capacity without developing what is often referred to as the Ni-Cd Memory Issue.
The image to the left is a typical Nickel-Metal Hydride battery. You may note that the general construction is the same as for a Ni-Cd battery. The main difference between these two battery types is the substitution of a metal hydride instead of cadmium. Additional information and a more detailed cutaway view are available by clicking on the image.
Nickel Metal Hydride Battery Characteristics
| Type |
Secondary |
| Chemical Reaction |
NiOOH + (M)H = Ni(OH)2 + (M)
where (M) is the specific metal alloy. |
| Usage Temperature |
Good in constant temperature situations. Low temperature conditions can affect the batteries performance. |
| Recommended Devices |
Usable for all discharge rates: high, medium and low. Commonly used in high-discharge devices such as:
Digital Cameras, RC cars, Portable Power Tools, Heavy-use Flashlights, CB Walkie-Talkies, FRS radios, Portable Televisions, Handheld Video Games, Portable Audio Systems (Boomboxes), CD Players, MP3 Players, Appliances, Shavers and Toothbrushes |
| Initial Voltage |
1.2 volts or 7.2 volts |
| Capacity |
The capacity of NiMH batteries is higher than that of Ni-Cd. They generally provide up to 30% longer service life. |
| Discharge Rate |
Flat |
| Recharge Life |
300 - 400 cycles |
| Storage |
NiMH batteries self-discharge about 4% per day in storage. |
| Disposal |
NiMH batteries can be recycled by dropping them off at any of our over 7,200 stores nationwide.
Should be recycled through your local RadioShack store. For more information, see Recycling Batteries. |
| Other Notes |
No memory problems.
You can not always use the same charger for these and standard Ni-Cd. Always check the manual for the charger. |
Nickel Metal-Hydride Battery Datasheets
Data
sheet |
Battery Size |
Minimum
Capacity |
RadioShack
Cat. No. |
Quantity
Per Pack |
 |
AA |
1800 mAh |
23-525 |
2 |
| 23-528 |
4 |
|
AAA |
600 mAh |
23-527 |
2 |
| 23-530 |
4 |
|
C |
3000 mAh |
23-520 |
2 |
|
D |
4500 mAh |
23-519 |
2 |
|
9-Volt Rectangular |
150 mAh |
23-529 |
1 |
|
N |
360 mAh |
23-521 |
1 |
|
3.6V Battery Pack |
1200 mAh |
23-270 |
1 |
|
