Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Tips on making a cell phone battery last longer, besides replacing it?


Rechargeable batteries have certain chemicals inside that can hold a charge and regain the charge by adding electricity. Over time, these chemicals (usually nickel and cadmium) lose their potency. The best way to extend their life is to periodically run the battery completely dead, and then recharge it fully. Most take several hours to actually recharge, and if you take them off too soon it can reduce their potency. Always leave your batteries to charge for at least a couple hours, don't always trust what the phone says.

As far as the on/off question, the batteries will keep the current charge for longer if you turn it off, but it shouldn't affect the lifetime of the battery. Vibrate does use more of the current charge, but ditto on the lifetime. If your battery won't keep a long enough charge, the potency is permanently affected and you do need a new battery.

Freezing the battery may work, but it may also cause the battery to explode. Do that at your own risk.

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