Converting a 41C to run on CR2032‽‽‽

[burkhard]

Somebody on a certain auction site is selling a 41CV that has been hacked up to run on two CR2032. I'm not against modifications that improve things (especially if reversible), but this makes for a big loss in energy storage. Each CR2032 stores ≈220 mAh (3 V nominal). Each of the four alkaline N-cells is hold about about 1000 mAh (1.5V nominal). Rechargeable NiMH N cells hold about ½ the charge of the alkaline,≈500 mAh, (1.2V nominal).

If somebody were to come up with a trick HP41C replacement battery, it would probably best be a modern, squarish, rechargeable LiIon or LiPo that fills up as much of the battery bay as possible and could ideally be recharged in place. A unit that could be removed as an assembly to permit using the spec'd N cells if need arises would be preferred. Soldering jumpers to the flex circuit is not so great.

This "couple of little coin cells" scheme seem like a really bad idea. And don't even think about running a card reader... or flashing a 41CL.
I hope this mod doesn't become a trend.

Maybe somebody owns stock in a CR2032 battery manufacturer?

(see attached photo)