PSA - Replace your analyzer batteries well before they die

[Divin'Papaw]

I recently discovered that my Palm CO analyzer was trashed because of a leaking battery.

Ouch!

Just a public service announcement to monitor and replace the batteries in your analyzers BEFORE they die. The likelihood of the batteries leaking when fully discharged is just too great. Given that the batteries sit right on top of the electronics and the screen, a leak can kill the unit, which is what happened to mine.

 

[Manatee Diver]

Same thing happened to my Palm O2, it is really annoying as the only indication that the batteries are dying is that it reads low percentages so you are confused if it is a sensor failure or the batteries.

Since my Palm O2 was dead I switched to the Divesoft Solo precisely because it shows both battery level and sensor voltage in the app. I also put disposable lithium batteries in my Palm CO.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

Same thing happened to my Palm O2, it is really annoying as the only indication that the batteries are dying is that it reads low percentages so you are confused if it is a sensor failure or the batteries.

Since my Palm O2 was dead I switched to the Divesoft Solo precisely because it shows both battery level and sensor voltage in the app. I also put disposable lithium batteries in my Palm CO.

Once I discovered this, I immediately put lithium batteries in the Palm O2 and added a reminder on my phone to replace them in 18 months. Glad I opened up my Palm O2 because it had the diabolical Duracell alkalines that love to leak.

 

[Joneill]

I recently discovered that my Palm CO analyzer was trashed because of a leaking battery.

Ouch!

Just a public service announcement to monitor and replace the batteries in your analyzers BEFORE they die. The likelihood of the batteries leaking when fully discharged is just too great. Given that the batteries sit right on top of the electronics and the screen, a leak can kill the unit, which is what happened to mine.

View attachment 918034View attachment 918035

Definitely switch to Lithium batteries to avoid the potential for the acid leaks associated with Alkaline batteries.

 

[inquis]

I remove the batteries from my Palm for that very reason, and I install the battery before leaving on the trip. Stupid screws! The lithium option sounds like a better approach.

I have a Solo for my normal use and tech trips. The Palm only goes on recreational trips because I don't mind when it gets dropped/abused when others borrow it.

 

[Divin'Papaw]

Definitely switch to Lithium batteries to avoid the potential for the acid leaks associated with Alkaline batteries.

Yup. I should have been smarter. I use them in my Perdix 2s. I just never gave any thought to using them in my analyzers. Stupid on my part.

 

[Joneill]

Yup. I should have been smarter. I use them in my Perdix 2s. I just never gave any thought to using them in my analyzers. Stupid on my part.

I found out the hard way too: with an expensive Nikon Speedlight. Unfortunate, but good lessons for others to learn from.

 

[Manatee Diver]

I found out the hard way too: with an expensive Nikon Speedlight. Unfortunate, but good lessons for others to learn from.

Same killed a SB-800.

I've honestly moved to largely get rid of Alkaline batteries. I only keep a supply for one device, a BP monitor, that requires it.