How to get the most from cell phone batteries

Which category do you fall into, a compulsive mobile talkaholic, a fanatic music listener, an ardent texter or a passionate web user? Whatever your penchant, one thing is for sure. Your batteries might be running out quickly regardless of the brand you’re buying. The first trick to get maximum returns is to choose a battery that is good. We’re not looking at batteries that give 4 or 5 hours of talk time. Anything under five and a half hours of talk time is worth taking a look at. Some of the best cell phone batteriesinclude the Motorola ROKR E8, the Sony Ericsson TM506, the Samsung Upstage or Reclaim.

There are certain tips and tricks to makecell phone batterieslast longer. Top quality of batteries is a given, of course. Besides this, proper charging techniques ensure that you get maximum life from the batteries.

A lithium ion battery needs to be broken into through what is called the adjustment period. During this phase, it is important to charge the battery for more than 12-14 hours to ensure that the battery has been fully charged. This is because these batteries have an inertness that needs to be overcome. Adjustment period should be broken into by charging and discharging the batteries fully 3-5 times.

Some rapid chargers indicate that the battery is fully charged when these are just 90% charged. Batteries must be allowed to charge completely before they are used. Otherwise, their life is shortened.

As far as possible, use the slow charge mode. This is best for the life of the battery. Charging should stop as soon as the battery is full. Do not charge the battery for too long as this adversely affects its lifespan.

Use chargers that are of high quality. Certain batteries have special instructions and these need to be followed properly to ensure that the battery is charged properly.

When charging the batteries of your cell phone, try to use a dedicated charger instead of sharing the same socket with other appliances like the TV or music system. This prevents the possibility of self discharge of the batteries.

Many people expose their mobile phones to unfavorable conditions like excess heat, water, moisture or cold. Sometimes, phones are placed carelessly on the dashboard, where they are exposed to extreme heat and light of the sun. As far as possible, charge at room temperature.

In case you’re away on a vacation and have not used the phone for a while, it is better to activate the batteries at the maintenance center.