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Buying Batteries

What is the difference between slim and extended-life batteries?

Slim batteries weigh less and provide less talk time and stand-by time than extended life batteries. Slim batteries usually cost more because the battery cells are usually more expensive.

What is the difference between Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) and Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries?

NiCad batteries, an older technology, are prone to "memory effect," a gradual reduction in capacity caused by repeated charging before the battery has been completely discharged. The battery learns to charge only part-way if it is continually recharged before being discharged completely. NiMH batteries are less prone to memory effect because of a different electrode structure, but they still must be charged in an appropriate manner. NiMH offer slightly longer talk time than NiCad. However, NiMH batteries do not perform well in extreme temperatures and discharge significantly more quickly that NiCad when they are not used. Although they are more expensive, NiMH are also more environmentally-friendly.

How can I avoid "memory effect?"

Make it a standard practice to completely discharge your battery before recharging it. Just leave your phone switched on until it drains the battery and shuts off. If you haven't used your phone for more than a week, discharge and recharge it. A "conditioning charger" may also help. This type of charger discharges a battery very quickly and, in many cases, can bring life back to older cells. Never leave your battery in a charger over several days -- this practice will shorten battery life.

If I treat it right, how many charges will my battery give me?

Battery life is affected by many variables, including your charging procedures, the type of battery, and the temperature at which it is stored. A good rule of thumb is that there are 200-400 charges in the average battery.

What about Lithium Ion batteries?

A third and newer type of battery is the Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) battery. These batteries are even more lightweight and can offer even longer stand-by and talk times than NiCad and NiMH. Lithium-ion batteries do not experience "memory effect" and can also be recharged more than 500 times.