Why does the PhotoPC 500 seem to have such a short battery life?

• Sometimes the battery runs out due to the fact that the user is downloading images at the default speed of 9600 bps. When downloading at 9600 bps, it takes 55 seconds per image, which drains the battery. If the user increases the baud rate to 57600 bps, a high resolution image can be downloaded in 18 seconds. Also, after downloading your images and exiting the TWAIN driver, please remember to shut off the camera. Otherwise, the camera will remain "awake" and will continue to wear down the batteries. Battery life can be improved by using AA sized lithium batteries instead of the AA sized alkaline batteries.