subject: What Types Of Batteries Can Be Used In Notebook Pcs? [print this page] Choosing a notebook replacement battery depends on the battery currently installed in your computer. There are three types of notebook batteries: lithium-ion (Li-on), nickel cadmium (NiCad) and nickel metal hydride (NiMh). Due to the different charging requirements of each battery, the three types are not interchangeable. Some HP notebook batteries must be fully discharged before recharging, while others only require a partial discharge.
Nickel Metal Hydride
A NiMh notebook battery has a life span between two and five years, depending on how frequently it is recharged. The environmentally friendly NiMh can recharge several hundred times before it is depleted, and the discarded laptop battery for Toshiba can be recycled. Because of its higher energy capacity compared to the older NiCad battery, a NiMh battery is about the same size as a NiCad but its charge lasts twice as long. When stored for six months, the battery retains between 50% and 80% of its charge. Its voltage rate is 1.25 volts per cell. Panasonic, Duracell and Energy+ manufacture NiMh batteries. Replacements can be purchased online from suppliers such as Directron, Kahlon and Microbattery. Most Dell, IBM and Toshiba notebooks use NiMh batteries. The cost of the battery starts around $100.
Lithium-Ion Based
Lithium-based batteries are physically lighter than nickel-based batteries and have a higher energy density. Li-on batteries do not need to be charged to full potential to maintain peak performance. Charging the battery to its full potential over several days will count as one life cycle. The battery can be charged between 500 and 800 times. Li-on batteries charge at a faster rate but can only be charged with a battery charger designed for Li-on batteries. If overcharged, this battery can be damaged. Replacement batteries can be purchased online from retailers such as Memory 4 Less and Pacific Geek. Depending on the manufacturer and place of purchase, Li-on batteries start around $70. Apple, Toshiba, Acer notebooks typically use Li-ion batteries.
Nickle Cadium Battery
NiCad batteries are the original rechargeable batteries used in early notebooks. They have the shortest battery life and consume the most power. Older notebooks such as the Toshiba Satellite T1800 use NiCad batteries. Replacing this battery is difficult because most companies have stopped manufacturing NiCads. It provides about 500 charge cycles.
NiCad batteries suffer from memory effect. This means if the battery is constantly on and only partially discharges before it is recharged, it will soon forget it has the capability to discharge completely. For example, constantly recharging the battery while it is only 50% discharged will cause the Dell laptop battery only to work at a 50% capacity. To prevent the memory effect, fully discharge the battery. Batteries start at $93 on websites like Bizrate.
