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| Battery FAQ - Usage And Tips On Rechargeable Battery Packs
Battery Frequently Asked Questions--
Install? How? Time? Charge? Power?- Is it easy to install a battery?
- How is a lithium battery different from an alkaline battery?
- How can I charge my battery?
- Why does the battery power my computer for only 5 to 10 minutes?
- How long should my new rechargeable battery last?
- What should be the run time of a battery?
- What should I do if the battery gets hot in my notebook?
- What should I do when the laptop is not in use?
- How to maximize a battery performance?
- Safe Booster Cable Operation when jump starting a battery:
Is it easy to install a battery?
Yes, very easy. First, make sure all open files are saved. Next, either attach the AC adapter directly to the notebook or set the system to "hibernate" mode or shut off. Release the latch on the current battery, and simply install the replacement battery.
How is a lithium battery different from an alkaline battery?Battery chemistry and construction differ in the two systems. Since lithium is a very active material, it provides a great deal of power relative to the amount of material used in a battery. The lithium discharge curve is longer and flatter than alkaline, providing a consistently higher voltage throughout the life of the battery. How can I charge my battery?Install the battery and charge it over night. Proceed this by cycling* your battery Some batteries may require longer charge time between cycles. Consult computer manual for charge times between cycles Why does the battery power my computer for only 5 to 10 minutes?New batteries are shipped in a discharged condition and must BE charged before use. We generally recommend an overnight charge (approximately twelve hours) for NiCad batteries and a 24 hour charge for Nickel Metal Hydride. Refer to your computer manual for charging instructions. Rechargeable batteries should be cycled - fully charged and then fully discharged - 2 to 4 times initially to allow them to reach their full capacity. (Note: it is perfectly normal for a battery to become warm to the touch during charging and discharging). How long should my new rechargeable battery last?The life of a battery operating under normal conditions should be between 500 to 800 charge-discharge cycles. This translates into one and a half to three years of battery life for the average user. As your rechargeable battery begins to die, you will notice a decline in the running time of the battery. When your two hour battery is only supplying you with twenty minutes worth of use, it is time for a new one. NiCad and NIMH batteries have an average shelf life of three to four years. When a battery is not used for extensive periods of time it should be removed from the computer and stored in a cool, dry and clean environment. Self-discharge will occur when the battery is not used for an extended time period. Fully charge the battery before use after storage.Long term storage will have no permanent effects on the battery's capacity. What should be the run time of a battery?
Run time will vary on individual notebook computers, based on the applications being used , the number of times something is saved or retrieved from the hard drive and/or CD Rom drive, the memory of notebook, and chemistry and capacity of the battery. An ealistic's average run-time for a battery is 1.5 to 3 hours. Again run time will vary on applications being used and individual notebooks.
What should I do if the battery gets hot in my notebook?Take the battery out and let it cool down. If problem persist once it is inserted back into laptop, the battery could be defective and it may need to be replaced. What should I do when the laptop is not in use?When the laptop is not in use do not leave the battery installed. The notebook will slowly discharge the battery. Total self-discharge may also occur when the battery is left in storage, because the battery circuitry consumes power. Always fully charge your battery when not in use or when being stored for extended periods of time. Check on this battery every 3-4 weeks. If total self-discharge occurs, the notebook may not recognize the battery.
How to maximize abattery performance?
There are several steps you can take to insure that you get maximum performance from the battery:
- Break in new batteries
New batteries come in a discharged condition and must be fully charged before use. It is recommended that you fully charge and discharge the new battery two to four times to allow it to reach its maximum rated capacity.
- Prevent the memory effect
Keep the battery healthy by fully charging and then fully discharging it at least once every two to three weeks. Exceptions to the rule are Li-Ion batteries which do not suffer from the memory effect.
- Keep the batteries clean
It's a good idea to clean dirty battery contacts with a cotton swab and alcohol. This helps maintain a good connection between the battery and the portable device.
- Exercise the battery
Do not leave the battery dormant for long periods of time. We recommend using the battery at least once every two to three weeks. If a battery has not been used for a long period of time, perform the new battery break in procedure described above.- Battery Storage
If you don't plan on using the battery for a month or more, we recommend storing it in a clean, dry, cool place away from heat and metal objects. NiCad, NiMH and Li-Ion batteries will self-discharge during storage; remember to break them in before use. Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries must be kept at full charge during storage. This is usually achieved by using special trickle chargers. If you do not have a trickle charger, do not attempt to store SLA batteries for more than three months.
- For notebook users
To get maximum performance from the battery, fully optimize the notebooks power management features prior to use. Power management is a trade off: better power conservation in exchange for lesser computer performance. The power management system conserves battery power by setting the processor to run at a slower speed, dimming the screen, spinning down the hard drive when it's not in use and causing the machine to go into sleep mode when inactive. The notebook users guide will provide information relating to specific power management features.
Safe Booster Cable Operation when jump starting a battery:- Always wear proper eye protection.
- Never lean over battery.
- Do not jump start a damaged battery
- Inspect both batteries before connecting booster cables.
- Be sure vent caps are tight and level.
- Place a damp cloth over the vent caps of both batteries.
- Make certain that the vehicles are not touching and both ignition switches are turned to the "OFF" position:
- Connect positive (+) booster cable to positive (+) terminal of discharged battery.
- Connect other end of positive (+) cable to positive (+) terminal of assisting battery.
- Connect negative (-) cable to negative (-) terminal of assisting battery.
- Make final connection of negative (-) cable to engine block of stalled vehicle ,away from battery.
- Start vehicle and remove cables in reverse order of connections.
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