Myoguide Power: Alkaline Versus NiMH Rechargeable Batteries
Even though the NiMH rechargeable batteries have a lower specified capacity (2300mAH) and lower voltage (1.2V) compared to a typical Duracell ProCell Alkaline AA battery (2850mAH, 1.5V), they tend to provide more capacity in a higher current draw situation. The following article covers Myoguide Battery Strategies to get the longest battery life.
NiMH rechargeable batteries provide a steadier discharge than an alkaline battery. i.e. Alkaline batteries have a steeper discharge curve as the load current requirements increase.
The downside to using a NiMH rechargeable in the Myoguide is that the battery display icon is calibrated for a 1.5V (Alkaline) battery and hence when using NiMH rechargeables, the battery icon will only display ¾ full when the NiMH are at full charge and will show empty when batteries are 50% discharged. i.e. The unit will run for quite a considerable time when the battery icon shows empty.
Note: Due to the fact that battery discharge is not linear, but rather is logarithmic. The battery detection circuit is designed to linearly display the current battery voltage; hence, the display is not a truly accurate rendition of the state of charge. i.e. when the display shows one bar, there still may be considerable battery capacity remaining. The batteries should be replaced when the display indicates “ Battery Low!”. This is one of the best Myoguide Battery Strategies.
Battery Test Comparison
Test 1:
80% EMG mode with 200Hz, 1mVp-p signal in, Vol:4. 20% Stimulation @ 1mA, 500uS pulse width, 1 Hz frequency into a 10 KΩ load
Alkaline batteries (Duracell MN1500): 8 Hr. 20 min.
Alkaline batteries (Duracell ProCell PC1500): 8 Hr. 10 min.
NiMH Rechargeable (Energizer NH15): 14 Hr. 39 min.
Test 2:
Constant Stimulation @ 4mA, 500uS pulse width, 1 Hz frequency into a 10 KΩ load
Alkaline batteries (Duracell MN1500): 3 Hr. 5 min.
Alkaline batteries (Duracell ProCell PC1500): 2 Hr. 15 min
NiMH Rechargeable (Energizer NH15): 4 Hr. 35 min
Test 3:
Constant Stimulation @ 1mA, 500uS pulse width, 1 Hz frequency into a 10 KΩ load
Alkaline batteries (Duracell MN1500): 3 Hr. 33 min
Alkaline batteries (Duracell ProCell PC1500): 3 Hr. 6 min
NiMH Rechargeable (Energizer NH15): 5 Hr. 17 min
Test 4:
80% EMG mode with 200Hz, 1mVp-p signal in, Vol:4.
20% Stimulation @ 4mA, 500uS pulse width, 1 Hz frequency into a 10 KΩ load
Alkaline batteries (Duracell MN1500): 7 Hr. 47 min.
Alkaline batteries (Duracell ProCell PC1500): 7 Hr. 35min.
NiMH Rechargeable (Energizer NH15): 9 Hr. 33 min.
Conclusion:
NiMh rechargeable battery use in the Myoguide unit provides considerably more run time compared to disposable alkaline batteries. This is especially true when the unit heavily used in Stimulation Mode.
NiMH Rechargeable Batteries have the longest Myoguide battery life!
You can visit the Myoguide page for more product details, features, benefits, and specifications if you wish to learn more.
You may purchase your Myoguide accessories and electrodes directly from the Myoguide Store! For your convenience, credit card payments and quotations can be accommodated directly from our website.
Joining the new Myoguide Waiting List will guarantee your spot in line and qualify your eligibility for our exclusive Founder’s Program.
We require your support during the initial phase of creating the new wireless Myoguide to gauge interest and production volumes. Thank you for considering becoming a part of our community.
The new wireless Myoguide has a lot to offer, including improvements to clinical workflows, the freedom to move without cables, and support for WiFi ultrasound devices that can share screens with the new Myoguide app, providing a comprehensive dashboard for mixed guidance procedures.
As a part of the Myoguide Founder’s Program, we’re offering discounts on the new Myoguide. By purchasing the new Myoguide, you’ll also qualify for discounts on surface and hypodermic needle electrodes in the Myoguide Store for the entire first year of ownership.
Don’t wait, secure your spot for this exciting new technology and take advantage of all the benefits of the Founder’s Program. Sign up on the Myoguide Waiting List today!
We invite you to join our supporters who have already signed up for the new Myoguide waiting list.
Our aim is to understand the demand for this new technology and how we can offer better features and benefits to support everyone, before we make a substantial investment in its development.
Please have a look at our line of excellent Technomed hypodermic needle electrodes and surface electrodes, available on the Myoguide Store . Technomed electrodes have the best performance to price ratio on the market! Save more when you buy using a subscription.
Contact us to find out more!
Follow me on LinkedIn