Don't use rechargeable batteries on a GBA

[Mirinee]

I was bored yesterday and started looking at my GBA (not SP) manual, and it says not to use Rechargeable batteries, only alkaline ones. It doesn't explain. It just stresses "don't" in more than 3 separate places. Also, it says not to mix old and new batteries. Why's that?

*Curious*
Thanks if someone can try to explain.

[Ria]

The batteries come back alive and EAT you.

[whiteninja]

I think that if rechargable ones are used too many times, the may eventually leak. :S

[jarl]

no, the rechargeable ones have a different charge. i.e- non rechargeable ones (reading off my batteries here)

panasonic rechargeable AA's: 1.2 V, 800 mAh
duracell alkaline: 1.5 v, 1500 mAh.

im guessing that difference is why not, though you can get rechargeables with the same specs as 'real' batteries.

also, i have a strong suspicion some money changed hands between the battery companies and the manufactures to put that in the manual.

[Mirinee]

It's all myths! :o

Very well noticed, jarl. Pointed me in the right direction to go do a little research on batteries.
The differences noticed:

Voltage:
Non-rechargeable Alkalines' voltage can drop to ~0.7V from 1.5V before it goes completely flat, and NiMHs can retain their 1.0~1.2V before cutting off, so that initial 0.3V difference is no problem at all.

Charge:
This is how long a battery lasts, so it shouldn't make a difference as long as it's not too low. My NiMHs are 1300mAh, very close to the 1500mAh that good quality Alkalines are.

NiMHs tend to discharge if not used, so if I keep playing the GBA it should be no problem at all. Besides, the official Nintendo GBA rechargeable battery pack uses 1.2V NiMHs. I have a strong suspicion too...