Batteries

[fotografr]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

I recently watched a special report on lithium ion batteries. The report was prompted by a significant increase in the number of fires caused by lithium batteries exploding. The intensity and speed of these battery fires was shocking and caused me to dig into this a little deeper. 

I've long been under the impression that paying what seems an exorbitant price for a battery with the Leica name on it was a complete waste, but I've generally done it anyway. Recently I purchased a new D-Lux 8 and decided I didn't want to pay $140 for the extra battery. I read on this forum about alternatives that "work just fine," so I checked on Amazon and ended up buying two Wasabi "equivalent" batteries and a charger for the low price of $24.95 US.

Having now read about the international testing and safety standards and the way to determine which batteries conform, I'm going to send the Wasabi batteries and charger to the recycler. I've ordered the Leica version imprinted with IEC 62133-2 (see link below). The cheap Wasabi batteries do not have this. I've also ordered a Watson charger which has safety features that prevent overcharging and overheating. 

It's possible I would never experience a catastrophic event with the cheap batteries, but I'd rather not risk a house fire or battery explosion on a flight by using equipment that hasn't been tested for safety. $150 seems a small premuim to pay all things considered. 

https://www.intertek.com/batteries/iec-62133/#:~:text=IEC 62133 is an international,consumer electronics and other applications.

 

 

Edited December 17, 2024 by fotografr

[stuny]

I agree completely.  Thanks for this.