[pct-l] Digital Camera Options

[ChuSto3 at aol.com (ChuSto3@aol.com)]

Dear PCT-L Members,
 
I have been using the Minolta DiMAGE X20 digital camera for all  of my 
long-distance hiking photos.  Even though this camera only has 2.0  megapixels, I 
get very nice photos when I set the Image Size for 1600 x 1200  pixels and the 
Image Quality at the "Fine" setting.  The feature that I  like best about this 
camera is the fact that it is powered by two  standard AA batteries.  These 
batteries can be readily purchased  in most trail towns, thus I do not have to 
spend time off-trail recharging  batteries, nor relying on any proprietary, 
Minolta-branded batteries.  The  camera, complete with two AA batteries and one 
SD Memory Card, weighs 5.87  ounces.
 
I am looking to upgrade this camera with a digital camera that has more  
megapixels, yet still runs on standard AA or AAA batteries that can be readily  
purchased in trail towns.  Many of the digital cameras that I have looked  at 
recently rely on special, manufacturer-designed, rechargeable  batteries.  Many 
weigh substantially more than 6 ounces.
 
Does anyone have any experience or recommendations on other  lightweight, 
digital cameras (with more than 2.0 megapixels) that use  standard AA or AAA 
batteries?  BRAND, MODEL NUMBER, WEIGHT  INFORMATION, and other known data would 
be most helpful.
 
Thanks,
 
Chuck Stone