396XT batteries

[kc4wwu]

I was just curious what you 396XT users are using for rechargeable batteries in the 396XT besides the batteries that come with it.

I read a couple posts saying it is not a good idea to charge the batteries in the scanner. I haven't experienced a problem yet, though I have only charged them once. Those batteries last quite a while!

So I would like to buy a couple extra sets, so I am just curious what you guys have had the best of luck with. I read of someone using one of the Duracell Chargers... any good? Also read some of you use the MAHA batteries and chargers... how are they?

Thanks in advance!

This scanner is by far greater then the old 396t... patiently waiting the release of the 996XT !!

73, Pete
K4QHR

 

[hfxChris]

So far I'm having great luck with the batteries that came with it, but for all my other scanners I use Sanyo Eneloop batteries - their low self discharge rates are perfect for me, because 90% of the time my scanners are sitting on my desk plugged into the wall.

 

[safetyobc]

I too use the Sony Eneloop as well as Energizer 2500 mAh and Duracell 2650 mAh rechargables.

I am recharging them in a Powerex MH-C9000 charger.

I had a energizer charger that I was using. Since getting the Powerex, I get a lot longer battery life (meaning life cycle).

 

[DaveIN]

I'm using the Duracell 2650 mAh, Rayovac 2500 mAh, and Rayovac I-C3 15 minute 2000 mAh.

I charge them with the La Crosse BC-900 Advanced Battery Charger

 

[scannersnstuff]

weighing in with delkin 2900's.

 

[Kevinbb]

seeing the 396 model only holds 3 batteries instead of 4, anyone know of a charger that charges 3 at a time instead of 4

 

[randybcd396t]

seeing the 396 model only holds 3 batteries instead of 4, anyone know of a charger that charges 3 at a time instead of 4

I use the La-Crosse. It has 4 slots, but you can charge 1, 2, 3, or 4 at a time.

La Crosse BC-900 Advanced Battery Charger

My guess is all of the chargers can charge a smaller number of batteries than their full capacity.

 

[linuxwrangler]

The Maha 9000 mentioned earlier charges cells individually. I've had great luck with both Maha chargers I have (and both charge cells individually). But you are right to be cautious - there are still plenty of chargers that only charge pairs. The batteries that came with my 396T were fine but eventually wore out with heavy use. I picked up a dozen Imedion (Maha/Powerex's low-self-discharge) batteries at Ham Radio Outlet and they have worked well for me.

I was a bit surprised after testing in the C9000. Some "no-name" supposedly 2,600mAh cells I bought a couple years ago never tested better than about 2,100 but the Imedion 2,100 have never tested less than rated.