I once put new batteries in JR transmitter and it wouldn't work because the batteries didn't have a high enough discharge rate. The voltage would drop when the transmitter tried to turn on because it drew too much current. It had to have a higher rate discharge battery. Alkalines have a higher voltage to start with but not as high a discharge rate as nicads or nihds so they must be able to hold the voltage higher. when you first turn it on. I don't know what an R-1 is.