Cobra Model HH35 radio dummy batteries

Question

I have two of these radios without the dummy batteries. I would like to use them without purchasing the NiCad batteries. The owner manual says I will need the dummy batteries when using regular AA batteries. MY QUESTIONS ARE: 1. WHERE CAN I PURCHASE THESE DUMMY BATTERIES???2. CAN ANYTHING ELSE BE USED INPLACE OF THE DUMMY BATTERY, FOR EXAMPLE,,A DEAD AA BATTERY,,A ALUNIMUM OR COPPER ROD?? I CAN BE REACHHED AT [e-mail]