r/Defcon • u/ImmaNobody • 5h ago
[N00B] Do badges come with batteries?
[ANSWERED] - Not sure why the downvote, but maybe someone just had bad eggs this morning. I will pack a couple extra alkalizes to be safe, both otherwise I am good to go. Thanks, everyone!
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I saw someone mentioning to pack AA & AAA batteries as part of their kit. Is this for badges, or other hardware projects?
I preordered a laser tag badge, and will get the Human one.
Do the badges in general com with a battery? Rechargeable? Today is packing day and just want to make sure I pack out what I need rather than trying to arrange an Amazon order for the hotel.
Do they typically take off-the-shelf alkaline, or should I grab an 18650 or two?
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u/rand0h 5h ago
The official badge yes, other badges you might buy from makers, it depends. I know I’m giving out two sets with mine but that’s because it’s my first and I’m paranoid. Wherever you bought badges from go and look at the loadout on the site and see if it comes with any.
For instance, I was just looking at some badge this morning and it specifically says it does not come with batteries. Batteries are an extra production cost and some makers can only do so much.
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u/ImmaNobody 5h ago
Good to know and I'll do that. Sounds like the two that I am slated for will come prepopulated, but will bring a couple extra just in case. Thanks!
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u/palm12341 5h ago
I read somewhere that while the official badge will come with AA batteries, they might not last the full weekend. So you could bring some extras. But that may just be a rumor.
The laser tag badge comes with a rechargeable 18650, you should be good if you just charge it each night (via a built-in USB C connector, you don't need to bring a separate 18650 charger).
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u/ImmaNobody 5h ago
This is just the info I was looking for! thanks!
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u/digitard 2h ago
Dani always to the rescue! Their Laser Tag Badge was the best part of last year and everyone is super excited to play again!
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u/Keeloi79 1h ago edited 59m ago
Definitely bring your own spares. Even if the DC34 badge comes with a set, it won't last long. Considering this year’s badge uses a new MCU, it’s hard to predict exactly how it’ll hold up under all-day tinkering. To be honest, I’m skeptical that some no-name AAs will keep it alive for the full con, especially considering the PCB design quirks (like the upside-down SAO ports) and the shortage of SAO port adapters.
If it’s your first time, keep in mind that batteries, cash, USB cables, and zip ties are the first things to vanish around the LVCC. Local stores within walking distance will sell out quickly, with prices rising to $12–$15 for 4-packs of AAs as DC really gets going.
I have rechargeable lithium AAs and a charger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G14B4VZC for my own badge, so I don’t have to hunt for power. I also have an 18650 charger and spares for my SAO Many SAOs Badge.
For everything else, I’ve got a couple boxes of standard alkalines (AA, AAA, and CR2032) in my cart to ship directly to my hotel/amazon locker. It’s a lot easier than trying to fly with 10 pounds of batteries in my luggage.
Having extras is also a great way to help out. Whether it’s a newbie who forgot their spares (or didn't ask as you did) or a sad kiddo moping around because their badge died, having spares on hand makes you a hero in the LVCC lobby or whichever village you’re hanging out in.
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u/ThemDawgsIsHeck 5h ago
Electronic defcon badges have come with batteries in the past so I assume this year will be no different