Testing batteries

Is there a way to check how well camera batteries are staying charged?  I've got a couple that seem to be going dead way faster than they should and they're the two most recent purchased.  Do batteries still have "memories" like the older NiCads?

Hi guys!

Battery technology can be more complex than one might think- what with all the new rechargeable batteries on the market. 

First of all- when battery voltage is tested it must be done with the battery under a load.  There are special battery testers for this purpose and they are worth having what with all the electronic devices that photographers need to use nowadays- the meters are adjustable for various voltages and for high, medium and low loads.  What the meter does is render a true reading as if the battery is in actual use.  Even a fairly low batteries will show full voltage without a load even if they are almost dead or fully discharged.

Some batteries have more memory problems than others.  One method of correcting this is to drain the batters completely using a flash light or automotive tail light lamp or something rated at the batteries voltage- attach the bulb to the battery until the lamp fully extinguishes and than recharge it fully.  If, after that the battery will not hold a charge it is on the way out and should be replaced.  Some types of batteries can suddenly drop dead right in the middle of a job with no warning. This goes for batteries in flash units, cameras and other accessories.

It is a good idea to check out the charging procedures for each of the specific battery types that you use.  Under or over charging can cause memory problems and even significantly shorten the useful life of certain batteries.  There are some rechargeable AAA and AA cells that have slightly less voltage specs than disposable cells of the same size and require specialized chargers.  Some batteries can be charged up and the charger automatically switches into trickle mode so that the cells are toped off and ready for use at all times even after long periods of storage.

Most battery problems arise at the most inopportune times such as when photographing active children, making portraits of impatient folks or right in the middle of covering a wedding ceremony.  That why it pays to have a handle on all you battery dependent gear.  Keeping rechargeable batteries healthy is also a good economical idea- some of theses specialized cells sell for rather outrageous prices.

I hope this helps!   Ed