Seems to me the newer the camera, the longer the batteries last. We have a 7 mp newer camera that uses 2AA batteries. I only use the NiMh rechargables (lots & lots of brands). I even have a 15 minute charger/batteries if you're in a hurry. I'd estimate we can take 150+ hi quality (3000+ kb files), many (?) with flash....all on one set of batteries, though we carry spares. You can keep a set of alkalines if you're worried about having backup.

I used to remove the cards a few yrs back to download to computer...but find USB cord connection much simpler. I don't believe you need any special software on computer to download. I just go to Win EXPLORE (Win XP) & find the camera file ....copy....paste. Or-CUT/paste (this is what we do on home computer).

Rich, I don't know what's wrong w/your drill photos...but they don't look good. I've never seen that before.

I'm very partial to Sony cameras & find them very reliable & easy to use.