Computers & Tablets

[PriusGuy2004]

I recently purchased a new Toshiba laptop from Best Buy, and so far I love it!!!  I have two questions about battery life:

1. What is the proper way to charge the battery?  Maybe a better question is, since this is a new laptop, how many times should I cycle the battery (charge to 100% then drain.  Repeat) so that I can get the fullest "life" out of the battery.  I asked an IT guy at work today, and he wasn't sure.  He also said people shouldn't be cycling batteries with newer laptops based on some discussion boards he's seen, but we're not sure of the validity of that.
2. Most of the time, I'll be using my laptop at home, but occasionally will take it with me on vacations, etc.  When I am at home, I anticipate using the AC power supply much more than the battery.  I am concerned, though, that if I don't use the battery, over time, the battery will just die and I'll have to buy a new one.

If anyone who is more knowledgable than myself could help me with these two items, I would greatly appreciate it.  Thank you, in advance.

[Yellowsubmarine]

I charge mine like my phone, use it till it warns battery low, plug it in for awhile/overnight and unplug it again. I do cycle it every few weeks though. But that's just me.

[Entropy]

You'll get 10 different answers to this question - There is no real conclusive evidence saying any one approach is better than another, and it probably depends on the specific battery charging circuitry of the laptop.

I have had no problems with leaving my laptop plugged in all the time.  However, as I understand it, some laptops do not do proper charge termination and will continue to "trickle charge" the battery when left plugged in - this is bad for the battery.  However this might only apply to much older laptops - it may be that the "don't leave it plugged in" advice you often see is no longer valid because all laptops now may perform proper charge termination.  (e.g. shut off their internal charge circuit and disconnect the battery automatically when the battery is full.)

The one thing I can tell you - shut off the machine when you're not using it.  Lithium ion batteries don't like heat, so if you want to maximize its lifetime, turn off the laptop as it will heat up the battery significantly.

[Neihn Valued Contributor]

Also Lithium Ion batteries are not supposed to be cycled like that. They are recommended charging just whenever is needed . The more charge cycles put on a Li-Ion battery the shorter the life. And as Entropy said keep the battery cool. Heat will decrease its life as well.

[RealGeorgeW Valued Expert]

When I'm on the road and my laptop is fully charged and I'm near a plug, I simply remove the battery. Not only is it lighter on the lap, it forces me to remember to 'shutdown' when I'm ready to leave