issue: batteries or camera?

[dobro]

I've got a Sony Cybershot (DSC W1). I like it well enough for the things I do with it, but it's become an energy hog. I was using rechargeables with it for the first few years (I bought it about four years ago) but I stopped using them because after recharging, they'd last only a short time compared to when I used them in the beginning. I thought the batteries had lost their recharge capacity. So I switched to ordinary commercial batteries for a couple of weeks. But the problem's the same. A couple of AA batteries lasts me for about 30 shots, no editing or archiving included.

Can an older camera become an energy hog? If so, is there a fix, or is it time to consider a new camera?

[Anbesol]

no, rest assured it is the batteries, extended use does not make a camera consume more energy. rechargables typically last longer than alkalines on a single charge, at least, NiMH rechargables. Get new NiMH rechargable batteries, or if you dont like all the charging, get some lithiums.

[dobro]

Hey, thanks. Useful information, which will be acted upon.

[tonym]

I had the same problem but now a new set of batteries will not even do more than one picture. It turns on and then shows no batteries and turns off. I have tried regular batteries and rechargable. Still looking for my problem.

[Anbesol]

then the camera is broken...

[Nealrm]

Also, don't skimp on the rechargeable. The better batteries tend to cost more.