Expert: Abe - 1/21/2008

Question
hi i currently own a kodak z712is camera, my problem is the voltage cut off of my camera is to high for ni-mah batteries 1.2v my camera uses 2 AA's, klic-8000 or cr-v3's! the problem is iam stuck with using ni-mah AA's cause the other batteries are to expensive, and with ni-mah i am only getting like 40 shots per charge, i was thinking of constructing my own battery pack which will be made of 3 ni-mah's which will be plugged via my cameras external dc in, only problem is my camera says on the side 3volts dc in, i was wondering if 3 AA's which are rated at 1.2v each 1.2 x 3 = 3.6v would work?

cause it says on the side 3volts, would my camera be ok? or would it fry the internal electronics! would 3.6volts be to high for my camera to handle?  

Answer
The chances of you damaging the internal electronic components are small, but possible; however; using a higher voltage will affect your cameras ability to accurately meter light. This will cause serious exposure issues.

If you are only getting 40 shots with the batteries you mentioned (or any batteries other than alkaline) you have a power consumption problem. This is common and easily fixable by Kodak service. But before sending your camera in for service, remember that rechargeable batteries have a lifespan. After x-amount of charges, they become weak and need to be disposed of. Try new rechargeable batteries first. If that doesn't fix your problem, send your camera in for service. Under no circumstances would I attempt to exceed the recommended voltage with a makeshift battery pack.