I pretty much always run vertically. Regarding batteries, I've actually TAPED a DVD battery to the bottom of my R4 and it's semi-permanently attached like that, LOL! My DVD battery has been frankenstiened to the bottom of the R4 and I never take it off, just charge it while it's attached. The battery, and both lead ends are gaffered too, so less chance of unplugging. Ha! BTW, I get well over 6 hours runtime at 4xPhantom@24/44.1 with the LED on the whole time.