How many batteries to power the surf P.I. 1.2?

[redhog12]

I have seen a 3, 4 and 8 batt. setup so which is best? Thanks from snow covered South Dakota.

[Waikiki_Sweep]

I have seen a 3, 4 and 8 batt. setup so which is best? Thanks from snow covered South Dakota.

You need 12V. With less than 9V it is unstable or not working at all. 8 AA batteries give you that 12V.
If you planning to use your Surf PI often better to switch to rechargeable batteries.

From rechargeable I can recommend Li-Ion because for much less weight it contains more energy than any other power source.
That is why your cellphone, iPod, notebook or digital camera using Li-Ion only.

Scale of weight:

heaviest - sealed lead acid
heavy - nickel metal hydride (NiMH)
------ alkaline AA is here
light weight - Li-Ion

I am using three 18650 li-Ion rechargeable batteries 3 x 4.2V = 12.6V in full charge, cheap case ($1.45) and chargers 2 X $3 from eBay.
Better quality (than offers from China sellers on eBay) 18650 batteries you can find in old or broken notebook computer.
Do not let them discharge less than 2.7V or they will be destroyed.
Check your charger that it works properly and stop charging after 4.1-4.2V or they will be destroyed.

[redhog12]

Thanks for the guidance, my plan is a recharge 3 batt. setup as shown from many others that have made this build.