Gary, just for info, if your caliper uses LR44 type batteries, try using SR44 ones (Silver Oxide) They are a little more expensive but are much more durable in these calipers. I learnt this from my Fowler micrometer that ate alkaline ones until I was told to use the SR44. (mine is always on!)

Matt

Bit of a tendency to jump to the conclusion that cheap / Chinese calipers eat batteries. I think it's true only some of the time. As NDIY hints you also need to consider the batteries themselves, for example:

• All things being equal SR-types have higher capacity and better shelf-life than LR types
• Cells have a limited shelf-life, which assumes room temperature
• The quantity of chemicals loaded into a cell by the maker isn't standardised. Cheap cells are likely to contain less energy than expensive ones
• Cells made using pure chemicals have more capacity and a much better shelf life than cells made from impure chemicals

When you buy cells, have a good look at the best-before date. This isn't the date at which the cell suddenly fails, its the point at which internal degradation becomes noticeable. Cells should be consumed well before the best-before date, don't expect much from old batteries.

Unfortunately it gets worse. Cells are often mis-sold, for example by repackaging genuine but out-of-date cells, or by packaging inferior cells with a counterfeit brand-name. For that reason, check the packaging and be suspicious of bargains.

Also bear in mind that a cheap digital caliper is unlikely to come fitted with a top-quality cell. More likely it's a low-capacity variant with a short life. Don't be surprised if the first cell doesn't last long.

Finally, beware cold damp workshops. They are unkind to batteries.

Dave

Edited By SillyOldDuffer on 23/01/2018 14:20:21

I use SR44 for all my measurement tools, they definitely last longer than LR44, I initially bought cheapo equivalents from pound shop ( usual disclaimer ) but the working life differed quite noticeably from one cell to another.

George.

Always try to pick up my SR44 cells from Machine-DRO (who advertise on here) at exhibitions, good quality/price and long shelf life.

Proops, I used to love their shop (Tottenham Court Rd I think) great place to browse and buy all sorts of parts to experiment with in my youth.

Edited By V8Eng on 23/01/2018 20:53:41