Another way to check the cells, is charge them all up, test each cell before
use, then after when the scanner starts to show signs of slowing down.. The
bad cell should show up. It may show up right off the charger, but if not,
it sure will once put to use.
One way I've found bad cells, though not a guaranteed scientific method
perhaps.... is when checking the cells out of a charger.. IF one seems to
start dropping in voltage right away even if only a few tenths of a volt, it
is usually the suspect cell. I've found many this way.

The scan current draw should be near the same or perhaps a bit higher than
manual mode, no audio. But certainly not as much as when a signal is being
received. Also, the current drain will also be greater as the volume is
increased from minimum to maximum. IF you listen to the scanner at top
volume, it will hasten the discharge. IF using it portable with no access to
a charger to use as external power, use an earphone to enable you to hear it
at a lower volume. OR you could make up a high current pack from a Camcorder
or RC pack or something. The latter can be quite obnoxious in some cases but
sometimes you have to have inconvenience to enjoy the conveniences (of
having a scanner for hours). I can't speak for all manuals, but some do list
the current rates for various modes. OR you could plug in a test plug set up
to go through an ammeter off of a battery pack or power supply and test the
current draws yourself.
--
Lou

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"BDK" wrote in message
...
In article ,
says...
In article ,
says...
The manual says 90ma when squelched. What does it draw when it is
scanning and there is audio?

I find that I drain four 1650ma NiMH batteries in around three hours.
This corresponds to around 550ma, which seems excessive. Is anyone
doing better?


Ken
(to reply via email
remove "zz" from address)

I'm thinking that you might have at least 1 bad battery out of the 4


You have a bad cell. Run the radio for a while, one will probably be
warmer than the others. I get 10-12 hours out of 1800ma rechargables,
with the volume about 1/3 up.

BDK