WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NICAD, NIMH AND LITHIUM ION BATTERIES?
Batteries in portable consumer devices such as a laptop, camcorder, cellular phone, etc., are typically made using either Nickel Cadmium (NiCad), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) battery cell chemistry. Each type of rechargeable battery chemistry has its own unique characteristics:
NICAD AND NIMH:
The main difference between the two is that NiMH battery (the newer technology of the two) offers higher energy density than NiCads. In other words, the capacity of a NiMH is approximately twice the capacity of its NiCad counterpart. What this means is for you is increased run-time from the battery with no additional bulk or weight. NiMH also offers another major advantage: NiCad batteries tend to suffer from what is called the "memory effect". NiMH batteries are less prone to develop this problem and thus require less maintenance and conditioning. NiMH batteries are also environmentally friendlier than NiCad batteries since they do not contain heavy metals (which present serious landfill problems). Note: Not all devices can accept both NiCad or NiMH batteries.
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) has become the new standard for portable power in consumer devices. Li-Ion batterys produce the same energy as NiMH battery but weighs approximately 20%-35% less. This is can make a noticeable difference in devices such as cellular phones, camcorders or notebook computers where the battery makes up a significant portion of the total weight. Another reason Li-Ion batteries have become so popular is that they do not suffer from the "memory effect" at all. They are also environmentally friendly because they don't contain toxic materials such as Cadmium or Mercury.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO UPGRADE THE DEVICE'S BATTERY TO A NEWER CHEMISTRY?
Maybe. NiCad, NiMH and Li-Ion are all fundamentally different from one another and cannot be substituted unless the device has been pre-configured from the factory to accept more than one type of battery chemistry.
Please refer to your manual to find out which rechargeable battery types the particular device supports or use our Battery Quick Finder Wizard to find all the compatible battery for your device. It will automatically list all of the battery types supported by the your specific device.
MY NEW BATTERY ISN'T CHARGING. IS IT DEFECTIVE?
Usually NO. New batteries come in a discharged condition and must be fully charged before use. It is recommended that you fully charge and discharge the new battery two to four times to allow it to reach its maximum rated capacity.
It is generally recommend an overnight charge (approximately twelve hours). It is normal for a battery to become warm to the touch during charging and discharging. When charging the battery for the first time, the device may indicate that charging is complete after just 10 or 15 minutes. This is a normal with rechargeable batteries. New batteries are hard for the device to charge; they have never been fully charged and not “broken in”. Sometimes the device's charger will stop charging a new battery before it is fully charged. If this happens, remove the battery from the device and then reinsert it. The charge cycle should begin again. This may happen several times during the first battery charge. Don't worry; it's perfectly normal.
Another scenario can be the BIOS interface. At times, the current software in your system is only set up to read an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) battery. If your BIOS as not been updated, and you have only used OEM batteries in your unit it can cause the replacement battery not to communicate efficiently with the software in your system.
By visiting your manufacturers website and locating your models BIOS upgrade, it can make it possible for your replacement battery to work as efficiently as your OEM battery. Once completing the BIOS upgrade, please recharge your battery for 12 hours and use as normal.
HOW CAN I MAXIMIZE THE PERFORMANCE OF MY BATTERY?
There are several steps you can take to help you get maximum performance from your battery:
Prevent the Memory Effect - Keep the 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 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 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 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.Sealed Lead Acid - (SLA) batteries must be kept at full charge during storage. This is usually achieved by using special trickle chargers. If you do not have a trickle charger, do not attempt to store SLA batteries for more than three months.
WHAT IS "MEMORY EFFECT"?
Memory effect, can also be known as lazy battery effect, is an effect in some rechargeable batteries that causes them to hold less charge over time. In its original meaning it describes one very specific situation in which certain NiCd batteries gradually lose their maximum energy capacity if they are repeatedly recharged after being only partially discharged. This battery chemistry should be fully discharged before attempting to recharge the battery.
WHAT ARE VOLTS AND MILLIAMP-HOURS (E.G. 10.8V - 4600MAH)?
Every battery has two ratings which are volts and amp-hours (AH). The Ah rating may also be given as milliamp-hours (mAh), which are one-thousandth of an amp-hour ( for example, a 4.6Ah battery is equal to 4600mAh). Ah hours are a rating of the amount of energy that a battery can store. Typically, the mAh rating is also a measure of the number of hours a battery may last. For example, a 4600mAh battery will last at least 4.5 hours. The higher a battery's amp hour rating is, the longer the battery's run-time will be. It is not uncommon for some of our batteries to have higher or lower amp ratings. This will not cause any incompatibilities.
Voltage ratings, however, must be within a reasonable range. For instance, your original battery may say 3.6v, but you purchase a battery that is 3.7v. This is still acceptable. The rule of thumb when dealing with voltage is to never exceed one volt higher than your original rating. So if your original battery is rated at 3.6v, then you would be able to use a replacement battery up to 4.6v and nothing higher.
Run times vary for many reasons, such as the type of device, the type of applications being used, whether or not you are playing a CD or DVD (etc.) and the chemistry of the battery. The average computer should give you between 1½ to 3 hours of run time. Once again, this varies for many reasons.
HOW LONG DO TYPICAL BATTERIES LAST?
The life of a battery under normal use is around 500 to 900 charge-discharge cycles. This is between one and a half to three years of battery life for the average user. Of course, a more avid user might obtain less of a life span due to the frequency of charge-discharge cycles. As the rechargeable battery begins to fail the running time of the battery on a full cahrge will begin to decline. When a battery supplies thirty minutes or less of charge, it is time for a replacement.
CAN I RECYCLE MY OLD BATTERY? HOW?
Yes, we can assist in battery recycling. Please view the information that is provided under our "Battery Recycling" option.
HOW LONG WILL MY NEW BATTERY RUN?
Battery run-time on a laptop is difficult to determine. Actual battery running time depends upon the power demands made by the equipment. The use of the screen, the hard drive, and other accessories results in an additional drain upon the battery, effectively reducing its running time. The total run-time of the battery is also dependent upon the design of the equipment.
WHAT IS A "SMART" AND "DUMB" BATTERY?
Smart batteries have internal circuit boards with smart chips which allow them to communicate with the notebook and monitor battery performance, output voltage and temperature. Smart batteries will generally run 15% longer due to their increased efficiency and also give the computer much more accurate "fuel gauge" capabilities to determine how much battery running time is left before the next recharge is required.
THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF BATTERY USE
Fully charge/discharge battery up to 4 cycles before achieving full capacity of a new battery
Fully discharge and then fully charge the battery every two to three weeks for battery conditions.
Run the device under the battery's power until it shuts down or until you get a low battery warning. Then recharge the battery as instructed in the user's manual.
Remove from the device and stored in a cool, dry, clean place if the battery will not be in use for a month or longer,
Recharge the battery after a storage period
Ensure maximum performance of the battery by optimizing the device's power management features. Refer to the manual for further instructions.
Do not short-circuit. A short-circuit may cause severe damage to the battery.
Do not drop, hit or otherwise abuse the battery as this may result in the exposure of the cell contents, which are corrosive.
Do not expose the battery to moisture or rain.
Keep battery away from fire or other sources of extreme heat. Do not incinerate. Exposure of battery to extreme heat may result in an explosion.
DOES ATBATT.COM SHIP TO APOS/FPOS?
Yes, we are able to ship most items to a APO/FPO address. Shipping options are limited to USPS delivery. Due to Federal Regulations, batteries can not ship to overseas APO/FPO addresses. For further information, please contact our customer service department.
MY REPLACEMENT BATTERY IS NOT CHARGING CORRECTLY, DO I NEED A BIOS UPGRADE?
BIOS, especially on older computers, can be updated from time to time. This is so the BIOS program can recognize new devices that have just been recently manufactured. To upgrade or change a computer's BIOS, a special program from the BIOS manufacturer is needed.
One reason that your replacement battery might not be charging or performing well can be the BIOS. At times, the current software in your system is only set up to read an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) battery. If your BIOS as not been updated, and you have only used OEM batteries in your unit it can cause the replacement battery not to communicate efficiently with the software in your system.
By visiting your manufacturers website and locating your models BIOS upgrade, it can make it possible for your replacement battery to work as efficiently as your OEM battery. Once completing the BIOS upgrade, please recharge your battery for 12 hours and use as normal.
WHAT IS A ZINC BATTERY?
Zinc Batteries (Non-Rechargeable) are electro-chemical batteries powered by the oxidation of zinc with oxygen. These batteries typically have high energy densities. They are typically used in hearing aids and prevalent in experimental electric vehicles.
In order to function, particles of zinc are mixed with an electrolyte (usually potassium hydroxide solution). Water and oxygen from the air than react at the cathode and form hydroxyls which migrate into the zinc paste and form zincate (Zn(OH)42-), at which point electrons are released and travel to the cathode. The zincate decays into zinc oxide and water is released back into the system. The water and hydroxyls from the anode are recycled at the cathode, so the water serves only as a catalyst. The reactions produce a maximum voltage level of 1.65 volts, but this is reduced to 1.4–1.35 V by reducing air flow into the cell; this is usually done for hearing aid batteries to reduce the rate of water drying out.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SLA, VLRA AND AGM BATTERIES?
SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) and VRLA (Valve Regulated Lead Acid) are different acronyms for the same battery. This battery type has the following characteristics: Maintenance-free, leak-proof, position insensitive. Batteries of this kind have a safety vent to release gas in case of excessive internal pressure build up. AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) refers to a specific type of SLA/VRLA where the electrolyte is absorbed into separators between the plates consisting of sponge like fine glass fiber mats. SLA batteries are divided up into specific subsets of batteries:
Designed to be a general purpose battery that can be used in a wide variety of applications like in toys, consumer level UPS, alarm systems, etc; Can provide a large discharge current over a short time period and the life cycle of the battery is 1-3 years depending on use. Capacity is usually calculated at 20HR. These batteries have generally regular sized plates.
DEEP CYCLE (EV)
Designed to provide a steady amount of current over a long period of time and are able to drain completely and recover almost 100%. Designed for electric vehicles, golf cars, wheelchairs, etc… Typical life cycle is 2 years or less depending on depth and frequency of discharge. These batteries have generally thick plates.
HIGH RATE DISCHARGE
Designed for when large amount of Amps are required in a very short amount of time. These batteries are used primarily where high power is required for a short duration of time (less than 30 mins). Mainly for high powered UPS Applications. Capacity is usually calculated at 10HR or lower. These batteries have generally thinner, but more numerous plates.
Constructed to have long service life in float or cyclic applications. Life expectancy in float service is up to 18 years @ 25C (typically 10+ years). Typical applications are communication, stand-by power, security systems, power systems, etc.
GEL VS. (AGM) SEALED LEAD ACID BATTERIES
AGM (absorbed glass mat) is a special design glass mat designed to wick the battery electrolyte between the battery plates. AGM Batteries contain only enough liquid to keep the mat wet with the electrolyte and if the battery is broken no free liquid is available to leak out.
Gel Cell batteries contain a silica type gel that the battery electrolyte is suspended in. This thick paste like material allows electrons to flow between plates but will not leak from the battery if the case is broken.
More often than not AGM Batteries are mistakenly identified as Gel Cell Batteries. Both batteries have similar traits; such as being non-spillable, may be mounted in any position, low self discharge, safe for use in limited ventilation areas, and may be transported via Air or Ground safely without special handling.
AGM Batteries are preferred when a large amount of Amps may be required. In most cases, recharge can be accomplished by using a good quality standard battery charger. The life expectancy; measured as cycle life or years remains excellent in most AGM batteries if the batteries are not discharged more than 60% between recharge and/or recharged fully every 3-6 months.
Gel Cell Batteries do not offer the same power capacity as do the same physical size AGM battery. However, the Gel Cell excels in slow discharge rates and slightly higher operating temperatures and with excellent deep cycle capability. Gel Cell Batteries are considered Deep Cycle battery by virtue of their construction. One big issue with Gel Cell Batteries that must be addressing is the CHARGE PROFILE. Gel Cell Batteries must be recharged correctly or the battery will suffer premature failure. Please refer to specification sheet for max charging current limit. Using Gel Cell chargers is highly recommended.
WHAT IS THE HOUR RATE OF A SLA BATTERY?
HR (Hour Rate) - All SLA type batteries have their capacity rated depending on the amount of Amps they can discharge over a certain period of time. General SLA Batteries are usually rated at 20HR, meaning their current over a period of 20 hours. If a battery is rated at 20Ah capacity at 20HR, it means that the battery can discharge 1 Amp per hour over that 20 hour period. A High Rate Battery will typically be rated at 10HR or less. So if a High Rate Battery that is 20Ah capacity at a 10HR, it would be able to discharge 2 Amps per hour over a 10 hour period.
Generally, a battery will have more effective capacity if it is discharged slowly and conversely, the battery will have less effective capacity if it is discharged quickly. For example, if a 20Ah (10HR) rated battery is discharged over a 20 hour period (20HR), the effective capacity could be 23Ah. If the same 20Ah (20HR) battery is discharged over a 5 hour period, then the effective capacity maybe only be just 15Ah, a loss of 25%.
High Rate Batteries however are manufactured in a way to maximize quick discharge at the expense of deep cycling and cyclic life. They can discharge high Amps at very short periods of time. For example, a 20Ah (10HR) High Rate Battery can discharge 70 Amps over a 5 minute period, while a General SLA Battery may only be able to do just 45 Amps.
WHO IS ATBATT.COM AND WHAT EXACTLY DO YO DO?
AtBatt.com - Your Electronics Improvement Center
Our mission at AtBatt.com is to provide products and information that enhances the quality of electronic devices for consumers, businesses and government organizations. We pride ourselves on delivering the latest in accessories, electronics and gadgets at the most competitive prices with great service.
AtBatt.com features one of the largest selections of accessories, batteries, parts and peripherals for the following electronics devices:
Video & Digital Cameras
Mobile Computing Devices
AtBatt.com is based in Valencia, CA and was founded in January of 1999. AtBatt.com is privately owned and operated by At Battery Company, Inc.
DOES ATBATT.COM OFFER ANY RESELLER PROGRAM?
For more information on our reseller program(s), please view the information listed under our Corporate Accounts section.
Please fax your request to our Customer Service Department at 661-775-2025
WHAT IS ATBATT.COM'S TOLL FREE NUMBER?
Toll Free customer support 877-528-2288
WHO DO I SEND EMAILS TO AT YOUR COMPANY?
Customer Service for assistance. PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL CANCELLATIONS! E-mailed cancellations are not guarenteed. If your order has not yet shipped, we will cancel your order. Please check the AtBatt.com Order Status page to confirm cancellation.
However, there are occasions where canceling the order is not possible because it is has already shipped. We will accept a return after your order has shipped but we will not be able to refund the shipping and you will be responsible for the return shipping to AtBatt.com. We suggest that you use a return shipping method that issues tracking numbers, so that you can ensure that the item is safely returned to our warehouse.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR ME TO RECEIVE MY PRODUCTS?
The delivery time on your order will depend upon the availability of the item and the shipping method selected. For "In Stock" orders we provide the following delivery time frames for domestic deliveries;
Ground: 3-10 business days by 7PM
3 Day: Delivers on the 3rd business day by 7PM
2 Day: Delivers on the 2nd business day by 7PM
Standard Overnight: Next business day by 7PM
Priority Overnight: Next business day by 12PM
International delivery time frames will depend on the country the order is shipping to as well as the method selected. Delivery time frames are provided in the description of the selected shipping method.
CAN I TRACK MY SHIPMENT?
To track your order, please click MY ACCOUNT here or at the top of our web page. By entering your e-mail address and password you can obtain up to date tracking information available on your order. If your shipped order does not show tracking information, or tracking information is stagnant please contact our Customer Service Department for assistance at 1-877-528-2288.
DOES ATBATT.COM SHIP TO INTERNATIONAL ADDRESSES?
Yes, we are able to ship to international addresses. Due to these addresses being based out of the United States, additional verification with the credit cards issuing bank is necessary, and can take additional time.
If you are located in United Kingdom, Japan, or China it is necessary that you provide us with a copy your Driver's License and the credit card because of the Privacy Act Laws in your country. Issuing banks in these countries will not verify billing information without the customer being present. Copies are requested to verify that you are indeed the card holder, and help us protect our customers and our company against fraudulent orders. Once we have received the information, we will be able to ship your order out to you.
WHAT IS ATBATT.COM'S RETURN POLICY?
For a complete disclaimer of our Return Policy, please click the RETURNS tab at the top of out web page.
HOW DO I RETURN A PRODUCT?
To return a product at AtBatt.com, you'll need to request a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. NO returns of any type will be accepted without an RMA. Anything returned without notification will be refused and returned to sender.
You may request an RMA number online; a response will be sent within 24 business hours. If immediate assistance is needed, please contact our Returns Department at 1-877-528-2288.
WHAT TYPE OF SHIPPING METHODS ARE AVAILABLE?
We offer ground and express air services by the following carriers:
USPS Ground (Domestic and APO/FPO)
FedEx Overnight, 2 Day, and 3 Day
International Services by FedEx and DHL
All available shipping options will be offered based on your delivery location at the time of your checkout.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SHIP THE PRODUCTS THAT I WANT?
The total cost for shipping your selected items will depend on the total weight of your shipment, the delivery location, and the shipping method selected. To view accurate shipping rates, please enter all items into the shopping cart as well as enter the delivery state and country into the shipping rate calculator. The available shipping options, delivery times, and shipping costs will be provided.
HOW DO I CREATE AN ACCOUNT?
If you are a new user and wish to set up an account, choose the item(s) that you wish to purchase then proceed to checkout. Under New Users, check the box marked "CHECK HERE TO CREATE A NEW ACCOUNT" and click on "Regular Checkout". Enter the password that you wish to use when you log in and complete the billing/shipping information. When this has been done, click on "Proceed to Order Verification". At this point, you will be given a summary of your order and shipping options. Click on "Proceed to Payment" and enter your credit card information and click on "Submit Order". Congratulations! You have just set up your account. On your next visit to AtBatt.com, you may sign in with your e-mail address and password. This will automatically enter your billing/shipping information for you.
NOTE: Credit card information is not saved on your account for security purposes.
CAN I CHANGE MY ACCOUNT INFORMATION?
Please click on My Account to make changes to your billing and/or shipping information.
Enter your e-mail address and password then click on "login". Once the information has been entered, click on "Edit Billing Info" under Account Settings. Make your adjustments and click "Update".
Under the same menu, you may change your password by clicking on "Change Password".
CAN I CHANGE MY E-MAIL ADDRESS?
At this time, customers can not change e-mail information but an authorized Customer Service Representative may assist you over the phone. Please call Toll Free (877)528-2288
HOW DO I ADD OR REMOVE MY E-MAIL FROM ATBATT.COM'S EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION?
If you receive a marketing e-mail from us and wish to be taken off of our mailing list, please contact Customer Service.
IF MY ORIGINAL POWER TOOL BATTERY IS AN NICD BATTERY, CAN I USE A DIFFERENT CHEMISTRY BATTERY?
That would depend on both your charger and power tool. A lot of chargers will charge NiMH batteries and a few others will charge Li-Ion. However, even if your charger will do this, your power tool might not. It is best in these situations, to check your user manual or contact the manufacturer to find out the technical specs of your model.
CAN I RECHARGE AN OLD POWER TOOL BATTERY AFTER IT SEEMS TO HAVE STOPPED TAKING A CHARGE?
There is a belief that you can recondition your old nickel based battery. Nickel based batteries will crystallize after a period of time and use. Some people say that you can break up the crystallization by running the battery at a very low volt (.5V or less) over a long period of time and doing this over and over a couple of times as the battery drains. However, this process can take a long time and has not been scientifically proven to work, so in most cases, your best bet is to replace the old battery.
HOW LONG WILL MY POWER TOOL LAST WITH A FRESH CHARGE?
That question can only be answered by how you use your power tool. For example, when using a drill your usage time can vary based on the speed you use. Drilling into steel will use more power than drilling into wood or drywall.
Here are some formulas to help give you an idea of how long the battery will last.
Amp hours = number of amps x number of hours
Amp hours / number of amps = number of hours
HOW CAN I PROLONG THE LIFE OF MY BATTERY?
There are several things you can do to help extend the life of your battery. First, store it separate from the tool to which it belongs. Do not leave it in the charger when it is fully charged. Second, keep it in a place that has a fairly consistent temperature. Finally, if dealing with Nickel based batteries, make sure that the battery is fully discharged before recharging it.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY CAMCORDER BATTERY AFTER IT HAS STOPPED WORKING?
Once the life of your battery has ended, you need to dispose of it properly. You do not want to throw it in the garbage, bury it or cremate it because they are not bio-degradable and they will explode in extreme heat. What you can do, however, is recycle them. To recycle them, all you have to do is check your phone book or look online for a place that recycles batteries. Also, many battery sellers will help you with this process such as online sites or even local stores. Just call first to verify that they actually accept batteries for recycling.
IS IT BETTER FOR ME TO PURCHASE AN ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER (OEM) BATTERY OR AN AFTERMARKET BATTERY?
That would depend on your point of view. Some people prefer to stick with the OEM battery because they feel safer with it. Other people would prefer to go with an aftermarket version because, in general, they are less expensive than the OEM version and in a lot of cases they have a higher capacity. So just do your research and make sure that you evaluate your needs before making this decision.
SHOULD I BUY ADDITIONAL BATTERIES FOR MY DIGITAL CAMERA?
To answer this question, you would have to determine your usage. Are you going on a trip where you might not have access to electricity and can't charge your battery? Are you going to an event that will have you taking a lot of pictures? In such cases, additional batteries can only make things easier for you.
CAN I USE AN EXTERNAL BATTERY WITH MY DIGITAL CAMERA?
In most cases you cannot. Unfortunately, most digital cameras have an internal battery that is made to work with only a standard battery. In the case of these internal batteries, you will only have a small range of capacity difference of maybe 100mAh +/-. If, however, you are lucky enough to have a digital camera that has an external battery, then you should be able to use an extended battery. As with any changes of batteries (i.e. chemistry and capacity), you should check your manual to verify that your model can handle these changes.
WHAT IS A LI-ION BATTERY?
Lithium-ion batteries (sometimes abbreviated Li-ion batteries) are a type of rechargeable battery in which a lithium ion moves between the anode and cathode. The lithium ion moves from the anode to the cathode during discharge and from the cathode to the anode when charging.
Lithium ion batteries are commonly used in consumer electronics. They are currently one of the most popular types of battery for portable electronics, with one of the best energy-to-weight ratios, no memory effect, and a slow loss of charge when not in use. In addition to uses for consumer electronics, lithium-ion batteries are growing in popularity for defense, automotive, and aerospace applications due to their high energy density. However certain kinds of mistreatment may cause Li-ion batteries to explode.
The three primary functional components of a lithium ion battery are the anode, cathode, and electrolyte, for which a variety of materials may be used. Commercially, the most popular material for the anode is graphite. The cathode is generally one of three materials: a layered oxide, such as lithium cobalt oxide, one based on a polyanion, such as lithium iron phosphate, or a spinel, such as lithium manganese oxide, although materials such as TiS2 (titanium disulfide) were originally used. Depending on the choice of material for the anode, cathode, and electrolyte the voltage, capacity, life, and safety of a lithium ion battery can change dramatically. Lithium ion batteries are not to be confused with lithium batteries, the key difference being that lithium batteries are primary batteries containing metallic lithium while lithium-ion batteries are secondary batteries containing an intercalation anode material.
WHY DOES ATBATT OFFER 2 DIFFERENT REPLACEMENT BATTERIES FOR YOUR UPS?
When your electricity goes out and your UPS kicks in, there is a moment of relief. Then the question enters your mind, “How long will the batteries last, and will the power turn back on before they die?” Well with our new line of high capacity (HC) UPS batteries, you can be sure that the power will last longer. The HC batteries will last longer than the standard version, as the batteries used to build the units have a higher amperage or Ah. Battery life is directly related to the amount of Ah the battery has. Our standard series of UPS batteries are built with a 12 volt 7 Ah battery versus our high capacity line is built with a 12 volt 9 Ah battery.
AUP-25 has 14,000 mAh vs. AUP-25(HC) has 18,000 mAh.
Don’t be left in a lurch with a lower capacity UPS battery!
WHY IS IT THAT AMSTRON BATTERIES HAVE A HIGHER CAPACITY THAN OEM BATTERIES, WHEN THEY BOTH HAVE THE SAME NUMBER OF CELLS?
Each laptop battery is configured with a set number of cells to determine capacity and voltage. Each cell within the battery is configured to contain a certain Ah. The cells that Amstron uses contain 2.6 Ah / 2600mAh each versus most OEMs contain 2.2 ah to 2.4 Ah. Two-tenths does not seem very significant, but when configured inside the battery casing this small amount can add up to a ½ hour more battery life cycle. Each cell is connected in a parallel connection to create a maximum capacity, while the voltage remains constant. To read further about how cells are connected to create a set voltage and amperage, refer to our Serial & Parallel Connections Article. Not only will the Amstron battery last longer between charges, but the quality of the cells is comparable to those in an OEM. Amstron uses high quality cells that are produced by Samsung, Sanyo, and Panasonic to create a battery with optimal performance.
HOW TO CHANGE A HOME SECURITY SYSTEM BACK-UP BATTERY?
When the battery that powers a house alarm begins to lose its ability to function, a warning will normally display on the front panel of the alarm. Typically, the message will indicate that a technician needs to be contacted in order to replace the battery. However, calling a technician can be expensive, when the work is quite simple. By following these steps, replacing a house alarm battery can be done within minutes.
Step 1: Locate the battery within the alarm system by removing the front panel door. The battery will be installed with two cables hooked into the alarm.
Step 2: Normally, when a home alarm system is installed, a technician will leave the homeowner an engineer’s code to disable the alarm when needed. This code should be entered into the system prior to disconnecting the battery to avoid tripping the alarm. Unfortunately, without this code, removal of the battery will cause the alarm to sound. If this code is not accessible, cover the speaker of the alarm to weaken the noise while removing the battery. It is important to muffle the sound as best as possible as most alarm sound louder than 100 decibels and could cause serious damage to human eardrums if too close for longer than a few minutes.
Step 3: Once the cables have been removed, unplug the power supply to the main panel. This will keep the alarm from running electricity through the cables and possibly causing electrocution.
Step 4: Install the new battery into the compartment inside the panel. Reattach the cables to the battery just as they were removed. Plug the power supply to the main panel. On most alarm models, the alarm will continue to sound with the engineer’s code being entered. A message may appear that warns “Open Zone” or “Tamper”. If the engineer’s code was entered prior to the battery removal, the alarm will not continue to sound.
Step 5: If the alarm continues to sound after the battery has been installed, check the main panel tamper switches. These switches are spring loaded and are pushed back into place once the main panel door has been put back into place. Reinstall the door so that the switches are pushed in and the alarm will cease.
Tip: Always refer to the owner’s manual to research the battery information prior to replacing.
CAN I SUBSTITUTE A LOWER AMP HOUR (AH) BATTERY WITH A HIGHER ONE?
As long as the battery that you are substituting is the same voltage, you can use a higher capacity (higher Ah) battery than the original one. The reverse is also true. Using a battery with a higher Ah will improve the device’s running time on a single charge. This feature is important if the power frequently goes out or is out for long periods of time. However, the higher the Ah is on a battery the bigger (physically) it will be. Make sure the dimensions of the new battery will fit in the designated space. You must also keep in mind that the charge time for a higher Ah battery will be longer than a lower Ah battery.
CAN I STORE MY SEALED LEAD ACID BATTERY?
Most emergency lighting batteries are Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries. All SLA batteries self-discharge. If the battery is not recharged periodically, its full capacity may not be recoverable. Typically, SLA batteries self-discharge 3% every month. We recommend you check and recharge every three months. SLA batteries should never be stored longer than six months without being recharged.
CAN I SUBSTITUTE A LOWER AMP HOUR (AH) BATTERY WITH A HIGHER ONE?
As long as the battery that you are substituting is the same voltage, you can use a higher capacity (higher Ah) battery than the original one. The reverse is also true. Using a battery with a higher Ah will improve the device's running time on a single charge. This feature is important if the power frequently goes out or is out for long periods of time. However, the higher the Ah is on a battery the bigger (physically) it will be. Make sure the dimensions of the new battery will fit in the designated space. You must also keep in mind that the charge time for a higher Ah battery will be longer than a lower Ah battery.