Shutter trigger - suggestions for batteries

[B.S.Kumar]

I am building a wired trigger for shutters. My working prototype is powered by 4 AA Eneloop batteries. I get around 500 actuations per charge, which is quite good, I think. The only issue is that the case then becomes quite bulky. My friend, who is designing the electronics, suggests using a 3.7V lithium battery like this: http://www.batterybob.com/products/1...ery-pda-279li/ He tested this battery, and the results were quite good.

But these batteries require charging within the device, which leads to all sorts of regulatory issues. I'd prefer to use a standard camera or video camera battery like this Watson battery. But I've not been able to locate a holder for these batteries.
Can I use this adapter plate to hold the batteries within the device?

Any other suggestions?

Thanks,
Kumar

[mdarnton]

I don't know what your power requirement is but if I were doing this I'd try to base it on a small LED flashlight like a small Surefire with 2 CR123a batteries and a momentary switch, and run my wire right out of the front of that to the shutter. Grip, switch, battery compartment, all in one small package.

[B.S.Kumar]

The current drawn is ~1A. Can these batteries deliver that?

[mdarnton]

No idea.

[el french]

This link may help: https://www.pololu.com/blog/2/unders...ty-ah-is-not-a

[B.S.Kumar]

Thank you.

[barnacle]

As it happens, I'm doing a lot of work with AA cells at the moment; they definitely don't do what the label says they do!

I would recommend *not* using rechargeable in-device cells; your electronic friend will know that the charging is problematical. You might though consider using a Lithium Manganese Dioxide AA cell, which will give you the six volts you need in only two AA-sized cells, so half the size of your current pack. http://uk.farnell.com/varta/61171013...-aa/dp/8636192

Neil

[B.S.Kumar]

Hi Neil,

That is very helpful. I don't want to use in-device rechargeable cells, which is what my electronics friend suggested. Coping with the regulatory issues surrounding them would be impossible for me. I also want to use batteries that photographers would already have - like AA Eneloops and 3.7V / 7.2V / 7.4V Lithium. Then there's no need for them to buy special chargers, etc.

Have you used these batteries much?

Thanks,
Kumar

Edit: I can't find these batteries in any of the major stores in Japan. Panasonic too does not list them in their catalog.

[Bill Burk]

You know, if you use one of the battery types that photographers "already have"... they'd also have the charger.

[Tin Can]

I use 30 AA Eneloops in rotation in 4 SB 800. Several LED Torch. All normal remotes get AAA Eneloops. Only PCB Cyper Commander cannot use them. I stock a big pile of Duracell in all sizes. Of course for any digital camera we need at least 2 special batteries and AC adapter.

Next I want PCB Vagabond...