Much of it operates on rechargeable nickle cadmium batteries -- electronic flash units, audio recorder/players, camcorders, portable radios, cell phones, and many other items like cordless phones, power drills, and screwdrivers, to name a few. To get the best results "Nicads" need a little care.

• Take time to read the instructions applicable to the particular battery.
• Do charge a new Nicad for 15 to 16 hours before using it.
• Nicads like temperatures between 55 and 80 degrees.
• Don't run a Nicad completely down.
• Keep a record of the last charge.
• Never top off a fully charged Nicad.
• Fully discharging twice a year keeps a Nicad in the best recharging condition.
• Current production Nicads do not have the memory formerly associated with early batteries.
• When a Nicad no longer takes a charge don't throw it away; Nickle Cadmuim is an environmental hazard. Take the "dead" batteries to RADIO SHACK for recycling.

ORVIL STOKES is publisher of PHOTOWORK NEWSLETTER, now in its tenth year. ($10 per year. Canada $11). He also conducts the annual Orvil Stokes Workshop. (317 E Winter Ave, Danville IL 61832; Voice/Fax: 1 217 442-3075.)

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