Using Lithium-Ion Batteries

Sony Corporation put the first lithium-ion battery on retailer's shelves in 1991, according to Cadex Electronics, Inc. of Canada. Since then, lithium-ion batteries have become popular power sources for laptop computers, digital cameras and cell phones among other personal electronic devices. The durability, cost effectiveness and environmentally friendly nature of lithium batteries makes them a popular choice for portable power. However, their limited cell sizes, expensive accessories and up-front cost may be daunting for the average consumer.

Power Output
Lithium-ion batteries with an output of 3.7volts shadows Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries of the same size and weight, since they only offer a mere1.2 volts of energy, according to Greenbatteries.com. When stored in a case or in an electronic device, lithium-ion batteries retain their stored power longer than NiCd and NiMH batteries, which can lose 1 to 5 percent of their stored power daily.

Cost
When compared to other rechargeable batteries, such as Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, lithium-ion batteries cost more initially. When compared to the amount of power output over time, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are ultimately more economical than NiCd, NiMH and disposable batteries.

Available Sizes
Consumers are limited to specialized sizes of lithium-ion batteries.If a device can use this type of battery, it is often sold with one. Lithium-ion batteries are not interchangeable with popular AA, C and D sized batteries. According to Greenbatteries.com, lithium-ion batteries are not produced in those standard cell sizes.

Accessories
Lithium-ion batteries require specialized chargers to re-fill their power. These chargers are more expensive and difficult to find than chargers for other types of rechargeable batteries. Try shopping at specialty photography retailers or electronics stores for the best selection of lithium-ion battery chargers.

Storage
If you plan to travel, lithium-ion batteries are a perfect travel partner. They can be stored in a suitcase, or in an electronic device without losing power. The last lithium-ion battery used on the trip should be just as powerful as the first. If the batteries will be stored for months at a time, charge the batteries to at least 40 percent, then place them in a temperature regulated environment (not the garage or attic). Avoid storing fully depleted batteries, as this can cause them to have a shortened overall life span.

Sources:
Green Batteries.com: Li-ion Battery FAQ's
http://www.greenbatteries.com/libafa.html

Battery University: Is lithium-ion the ideal battery?
http://www.batteryuniversity.com/partone-5.htm

Electropaedia: Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
http://www.mpoweruk.com/lithiumS.htm

Green Batteries.com: Devoted to advancing the use of NiMH and Li-ion rechargeable batteries.
http://www.greenbatteries.com/faqs.html

Power Stream: NiMH Battery Charging Information
http://www.powerstream.com/NiMH.htm

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