I know one is nickel-cadmium and the other is nickel halide metal. But are they both rechargeable? Why is one preferred over the other?
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charge me up!
Nickel Cadmium - was first invented in the 1800's. It is a rechargeable battery. From a dead state, although it should never be totally dead, it will recharge in approx 8 hours to a full charge state. Voltage at the terminals will show 1.2 volts. The center terminal is the same composition as the Metal Halide. The electron absorption material is metallic cadmium. Its self discharge rate is low.
Metal Halide has the same center conductor properties as the NiCad but the electron absorption material is different. Its voltage is the same 1.2 volts fully charged.
Its self discharge rate is high. 62% being discharged in the first hour after recharging. Doesn't hold a charge well.
Its overall rating for charge/discharge rates approach that of a Lithium cell.
NiCads develop a "memory" if not fully discharged between chargings. Metal Halides do not.
Each requires its own unique charger circuit.
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