Charge Rechargeable
AA Batteries
A double A, or AA, size battery is commonly used in small electronics. Specifications are determined by size and voltage. Size of an AA ranges between 49.2 and 50.5 millimeters in length, or just under 2 inches. Width is approximately 14 millimeters. AA batteries are available in alkaline, lithium and nickel metal hydride, or NiMH, varieties. While rechargeable batteries are practical for use in digital cameras, alkaline batteries are also available in a disposable form.
Instructions
1. Check the charge of the battery. Insert it into an electronic item. If the battery powers the device, there is a remaining charge. Continue to use the battery until there is no power remaining before attempting to recharge. When half charged batteries are recharged, the life of the battery is shortened. A charger cannot measure the existing power level of a battery and overcharges it. Unlike adding fuel to a car, batteries should never be "topped off."
2. Locate an appropriate battery charger. Some batteries are packaged with the applicable charger and some are not. If no battery charger is present, visit a grocery store or electronics store for a suitable substitute. Read the package to select the appropriate charger. A charger will only be compatible with one variety of battery. Read package to determine whether charger is intended for lithium, alkaline or NiMH batteries. Purchase the charger that is compatible with the batteries on hand.
3. Snap the batteries into the charger, insuring that the positive and negative ends are in the correct place. If unsure, look for plus and minus symbols on the charger or consult the manufacturer provided instructions.
4. Plug the charger into the wall. Some chargers mount directly to an outlet. Others rely on a long cord.
5. Monitor the time. Some chargers have a light that changes color when charge is complete. Others do not. Record charging time to prevent overcharging in the future. The most common way to overcharge a battery is to use chargers that claim to "quick charge" a battery. These chargers do not shut off automatically when full battery power is achieved.
6. Unplug charger. When indicator light changes or recommended time is elapsed, charge is complete.
7. Test batteries. Place batteries in the intended device and turn power on. If the device does not work, try the newly charged batteries in another device to troubleshoot. If the newly charged batteries still have no power, they may be defective or the charger was not properly powered. If batteries work, recharge periodically. Some electronic devices have battery indicators that display battery power remaining.
8. Repeat process every six to nine months unless use dictates more frequent charging.
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