A computer powered by a staggering 56 AA alkaline batteries managed to run Windows and play Minesweeper for approximately 2 minutes and 15 seconds. This experiment, conducted by ScuffedBits and shared on YouTube, demonstrated the limitations of using batteries for sustained power. The initial attempt involved standard batteries, but the current was insufficient to keep the system operational.
To achieve the necessary power, the team switched to alkaline batteries, which provided better current output. Despite this, the experiment highlighted the impracticality of using batteries in place of a power supply unit (PSU). The setup required additional capacitors to manage power spikes, indicating the challenges of relying on such a battery bank.
While nostalgic for handheld gaming devices of the 1990s, where battery consumption was a significant issue, modern consoles now favor rechargeable options. Ultimately, this experiment serves as a reminder that a PSU is not only more cost-effective but also environmentally friendly compared to purchasing multiple batteries for occasional use.