Laptop, Notebook Battery F.A.Q.’s
Question: How long does a laptop battery last and when should I replace it?
Answer: With time and usage, performance of a battery will degrade. For the average user, battery life will last up-to 2 years, however if your using the laptop heavily, chances are the battery will need replaced before this time. When replacing a battery, it is highly recommend to use manufacturer branded batteries or certified off-brands to avoid incompatibilities.
Question: What is the difference between 6, 9, & 12 cell laptop batteries?
Answer: Run time. A 6 cell laptop battery might last under an average load 1 1/2 hours where as a 12 cell may last up-to 3-4 hours. The larger the cells, the heavier the battery and size is as well as the price. If you are on the road a lot, going with the largest cell is best when considering run time, however it will add a little weight. Weight varies from one brand to another. Cell size also will determine how long it will take to charge a battery.
Question: I don’t unplug my laptop very often, will it overcharge the battery? Does it harm the laptop?
Answer: Most laptop computer chargers (power supplies) have a built in detection device that knows when a battery has reached a full charge and hence quits charging until the battery drains. If you notice that your battery is continuously charging and never sits idle on electric, then it may be time for a new battery and/or power supply adapter.
Question: Does completely draining (discharging) and recharging a Lithium Ion battery prolong its life?
Answer: No, doing this does not increase its life, they are designed to take this kind of abuse, just remember no battery is intended to last forever, and it will eventually hold little to no charge with age and use.
Question: I notice that when I plug my laptop into the wall sometimes it charges and sometimes it doesn’t, why?
Answer: If the battery is fully charged, then it is just going to run off of AC electricity, however if you notice that the charging icon isn’t activating and you battery completely runs out there could be bigger problem. Problems that can keep your battery from charging are most often a failing battery, a bad power supply, and/or a loose DC jack (where you power cord plugs into the laptop.) If your DC jack is cracked or broken, then you will need to have it repaired by a professional. A power supply can be checked with a volt meter. The average voltages for a power supply while plugged into an electric outlet is between 18 and 24 volts (not plugged into the laptop.) Please seek a professional if you do not know how to use a volt meter, RCCS assumes no responsibility of any electrical shock that could happen resulting from the testing of a power supply.
Question: Are laptop batteries user replaceable parts?
Answer: Yes, normally under the laptop is a latch that disengages the battery that allows it to slide or pop out. Just remember to turn the computer completely off and unplugged from AC power for a minute or two before taking the battery out. As stated above, when replacing batteries it is recommended to purchase the same brand of battery or certified battery for your laptop.
Question: I have more than one battery, I want to keep it in storage, How should I go about this?
Answer: Laptop batteries are not intended to be kept in storage for long periods time in a charger or some other power source other than your laptop. Batteries should be optimally stored between 32F & 95F Max. They can be stored in or outside of a laptop. Always charge them before putting into storage with a charging time of not more than an hour or between 80% and 100% full charge. A new battery will likely loose its charge by 15% over a four month period (if battery is new) while sitting idle.
Question: What are the regulations for airplane travel with lithium ion laptop batteries?
Answer: Please consult with the Transportation Security Administration’s to completely understand all rules and regulations of batteries allowed to be carried onto any airplane.
