Dell Notebook Battery Articles & Tips
Upgrade my Dell Notebook Battery from NiMH to Li-Ion
NiCad, NiMH and Li-Ion Dell notebook batteries are all fundamentally different from one another and cannot be substituted unless the notebook notebook has been pre-configured from the manufacturer to accept more than one type of battery chemistry. Please refer to your manual to find out which rechargeable battery types the notebook device supports or use our Dell Battery Finder above to find all the compatible notebook batteries for your device. It will automatically list all of the battery chemistries supported by your specific device. If your device does allow you to upgrade the battery from NiMH to Li-Ion, you will typically get longer run times.
For example, if your notebook uses a NI-MH battery that is 9.6 Volts, 4000mAh and the new li-ion notebook battery is 14.4 Volt, 3600mAh, then you will obtain longer run time with the li-ion battery.
Example.
Li-Ion: 14.4 Volts x 3.6 Amperes = 51.84 Watt Hours
Ni-MH: 9.6 Volts x 4 Amperes = 38.4 Watt Hours
The Li-Ion is stronger and has longer run time.
Click here for information on calculating Dell notebook battery run time.
How can I maximize the performance of my Dell notebook battery?
There are several steps you can take to help you get maximum performance from your notebook battery:
Prevent the Memory Effect - Keep the notebook 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 Dell notebook 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 notebook 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 notebook battery for a month or more, store 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 recharge the batteries before use.
What is the run time of AtBatt's notebook battery?
Dell notebook batteries have two main ratings on them: Volts and Amperes. Because size and weight of notebook batteries is limited when compared to larger batteries such as car batteries, most companies show their ratings with Volts and Milliamperes. One thousand Milliamperes equals 1 Ampere. When buying a battery, select batteries with the most Milliamperes (or mAh). Batteries are also rated by Watt-Hours, perhaps the simplest rating of all. This is found by multiplying the Volts and the Amperes together. For example:
14.4 Volts, 4000mAh (Note: 4000mAh is equal to 4.0 Amperes).
14.4 x 4.0 = 57.60 Watt-Hours
Watt-Hours signifies the energy needed to power one watt for one hour. This Dell notebook battery can power 57.60 watts for one hour. If your notebook runs at 20.50 watts, as an example, this notebook battery could power your notebook for 2.8 hours.
Are there restrictions when taking lithium-ion batteries on planes?
Effective January 1, 2008, the Department of Transportation (DOT) will no longer allow loose lithium batteries in checked baggage. These batteries may continue to be packed in carry-on baggage.
To read more : Traveling with Spare Batteries
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