Classically, only without mercury. No batteries, no frills, always ready for use. I've looked at here schmunzelnderweise some reviews, so two comments: The thermometer is made of glass (like all his predecessors over many decades) - so it is advisable, as with any product of such material to treat it accordingly with care. As for the shake down: the trick is vigorous and energetic shake of the wrist. If one leads the movement of the upper arm, you can shake three days without result. Of course, the thermometer hold good, otherwise again occurs when flying off the problem on to the glass. Wers not really creates a senior nurse should look for in order to instruction.