1.) Some rechargeable batteries must be stored and shipped in a discharged condition. Therefore, it must be charged in order for it to work. Charge ALL rechargeable batteries completely before inserting them into your device. If the charger is built in to the device, Ex: Laptop Computers, plug the laptop into a power outlet and then place the new battery in while the laptop is OFF. Allow the battery to charge completely before powering up the device.
2.) You may have to charge and completely discharge ALL rechargeable batteries up to 5 times to achieve the maximum output of the battery.
3.) You may have to "reset" the battery gauge on some laptop computers when you put a new battery in them before it will show that the battery is completely charged. See your laptop computers owners manual for details.
4.) Nickel Cadmium is the most popular type of rechargeable battery, although it tends to suffer from "memory effect" (see below). It has a high rate of energy discharge, meaning that it is low maintenance with high performance. Nickel Cadmium can deliver even power until nearly all of the battery has been used.
5.) Nickel Metal Hydride is the most advanced commercial rechargeable battery. Nickel Metal Hydride batteries last 40% longer than Nickel Cadmium batteries. This battery is generally much more environmentally friendly than Nickel Cadmium, as well.
6.) Lithium Ion batteries do not suffer from the "memory effect" at all (see below). These batteries have twice the energy of Nickel Metal Hydride, although they weigh 33% less. This is especially nice for portable items, such as laptops and camcorders.
7.) If your battery doesn't seem to last as long as it did in the past, your battery may be suffering from a battery phenomenon called "memory effect". Basically, this means that if a battery is repeatedly only partially discharged before recharging, the battery will create a "memory" of the level to which it was discharged and "forget" that it can further discharge. With NiCd and NiMH batteries, the best way to prevent this situation is to fully charge and discharge your battery on a regular basis.
8.) There are several things that you can do to ensure the maximum performance from your battery: Never leave your battery in its charger for more than 24 hours. Doing so will shorten the life of your battery. Break in your new batteries. The best way to do this is by fully charging and discharging your new battery several times in order to reach its maximum capacity. Keep the contacts of your batteries clean. You can clean dirty batteries with a cotton swab and alcohol. A clean contact will ensure a good connection between your battery and its device. Do not leave your battery dormant. Generally, a battery should be used every two to three weeks to ensure that it maintains a proper charge.
9.) Under normal conditions, the life of a rechargeable battery is anywhere from 500 to 800 charge-discharge cycles (up to three years). A decrease in the battery's running time is the best indication that it is time for a new battery.
10.) Batteries should never be left in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures (below 30 degrees Fahrenheit or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit). They should always be stored in a cool and dry place and should be fully charged before being stored for long periods of time.
11.) Sometimes a charger may indicate that the battery is fully charged but when it is used, it doesn't work. This is known as "false peak" and is very common condition during first time battery use (or using a battery that has been discharged for several months). The charger light may go out after only five or ten minutes, indicating that it is fully charged when it is not. Should this happen, simply leave the battery on the charger for about one hour. Remove it, and return it to the charger immediately. The battery will resume normal charging and the charger light will indicate when the batter is ready for use.
12.) Due to technological advancements, replacement batters or "after market" batteries will often last longer than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries that cam with your device. Do not be fooled by manufacturers who state that you can ONLY use their brand of battery or that using anything other than their brand of battery will void your warranty. That is illegal and they cannot enforce it. They simply want you to pay twice as much for their brand of battery as you would for an aftermarket battery of the same or sometimes greater quality.
