[bookport] FYI - rechargeable batteries
- From: "Mike Justice" <m.d.justice@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- To: <bookport@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Wed, 16 Aug 2006 11:08:28 -0400
This general information for the list is taken from a daily Email I receive as
part of my web subscription to Smart Computing magazine. I recommend the
subscription for blind users since it is easily accessible with screen readers,
and the annual fee for twelve issues plus other
features is less than $20. Full articles can be transferred to the Bookport
for reading at your convenience. The web site is currently offering a free
trial subscription.
www.SmartComputing.com
Smart Computing
Daily Information For Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Daily Tip:
Li-Ion Battery Advice
Avoid frequent full discharges. The reason this is an issue is because
performing frequent full discharges puts additional strain on the battery.
Several
partial discharges with frequent recharges are better for Li-Ion batteries than
one deep one. Recharging a partially charged Li-Ion battery doesn't cause
harm because there is no memory. (In this respect, Li-Ion differs from
nickel-based batteries.) Short battery life in a notebook computer is mainly
caused
by heat rather than by charge/discharge patterns. Batteries with fuel gauges
(notably notebook computers) should be calibrated. You should calibrate these
batteries by applying a deliberate full discharge once every 30 charges.
(Running the pack down in the equipment does this.) If ignored, the fuel gauge
will become increasingly less accurate, and in some cases, it can cut off the
device prematurely. Keep the Li-Ion battery cool. Avoid a hot car. For prolonged
storage, keep the battery at a 40% charge level. Consider removal. Perhaps you
should think about removing the battery from a notebook when you're running
the computer on fixed power. This isn't because the battery will overcharge;
it's to save the battery from the extra heat. (Some notebook manufacturers
are concerned about dust and moisture accumulating inside the battery casing,
whereas others warn that in the event of a power outage, or if you disconnect
the notebook forgetting that the battery isn't there, you may lose data.) Avoid
purchasing spares. Don't just buy Li-Ion batteries for later use. You must
observe the manufacturing dates. Also, don't buy old stock, even if it's sold
at clearance prices. If you have a spare. If you happen to have a spare Li-Ion
battery, use one to the fullest and keep the other one cool by placing it in
the refrigerator. (Just make sure you warm the battery to room temperature
before use.) Do not freeze the battery. For best results, store the battery at
a 40% state-of-charge.
Mike Justice,
www.MPNHome.net
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