Bosch1662 k-24 Power Tools battery Article&FAQ
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:
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.
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.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Battery Use
- Battery Do's:
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.
Battery Don'ts:
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.
