Battery links

Computer batteries

The demands of laptops mean that computer batteries have to provide a reliable and long lasting source of power.

However, they have to combine this with small size, easy portability, and durability. That is because laptop batteries, by their definition, are meant to be carried around. As such, they are subject to more wear and tear than many other types of battery.

Computer batteries must also be able to be charged up quickly and easily. Lithium ion technology is commonly used in computers because lithium-ion batteries can be charged numerous times and offer a good energy-to-weight ratio.

In addition to computer batteries, many other devices benefit from developments in lithium-ion technology.

Improving computer battery performance

Although laptop computer batteries can potentially be charged up to 1000 times, performance will begin to decline after around three years.

This is common in other types of rechargeable battery, such as:

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to extend the service life of your computer battery.

Run the defragmentation programme to ensure your hard drive is running efficiently. This will use less battery power. Also, you should ensure that the WiFi option is switched off when not in use.

Finally, make sure that you switch off the computer when you are not using it - don't set it to hibernate or put it on stand by.

Still, it may be wise to invest in a spare battery, in case you begin to run out of power where a mains connection is not available.

Comparing computer batteries to others

While batteries come in numerous shapes and sizes, they all work in basically the same way. A chemical reaction takes place inside the battery, which converts chemical energy to electricity.

This means, while it may not be obvious to look at them, computer batteries have a lot in common with other types, such as:

Computer batteries are usually packaged with laptops, although replacement battery packs are available from electrical goods retailers.