Two years ago, it looked as if NiMH
(nickel metal hydride) batteries,
with their increased power and longer
runtimes, were about to replace NiCad
(nickel cadmium) batteries and revolutionize
the cordless tool industry.
Today, however, NiMH batteries are
still relatively scarce. While two manufacturers
are going full speed ahead
with NiMH technology, many are taking
a more cautious approach and
some have backed away completely
(see "Who's Using NiMH Batteries?"
next page).
NiMH vs. NiCad
Battery size and weight limit cordless
tool designs, where
smaller and lighter means
"better." Typically, the higher Amphour
(Ah) ratings of NiMH batteries
provide between 15% and 40% more
runtime when compared with the
same tool running on a NiCad of the
same physical size and weight. And
while