How can I extend the lifespan of my rechargeable batteries?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the lifespan and performance issues of rechargeable batteries used in a wireless keyboard. Participants explore potential remedies for a battery that discharges faster than others, as well as the implications of using a quick charger.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes a specific battery discharges faster than others and humorously suggests extreme remedies.
  • Another participant proposes that the quick charger may damage batteries with defects.
  • There is a question about whether the issue could be related to the position of the battery in the keyboard.
  • Some participants express concern about the environmental impact of disposing of batteries improperly.
  • One participant mentions the importance of minimizing toxic waste and suggests testing the battery after charging.
  • Another participant speculates on the reasons for the discontinuation of certain fast-charging batteries.
  • There is a suggestion to replace the defective battery and consider using name-brand batteries with a different charger.
  • Participants discuss the potential for defective batteries in a series configuration to discharge unevenly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various opinions on how to handle the defective battery issue, with some advocating for replacement while others question the environmental impact of disposal methods. No consensus is reached on the best approach to extend battery lifespan.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the specific model of batteries and chargers, but there is uncertainty regarding the longevity of the batteries and the effects of different charging methods. The discussion does not resolve the underlying issues related to battery performance and disposal.

Pengwuino
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So I just realized that one o fmy batteries that I use for my wireless keyboard is discharging far faster then the other ones. I use a set of 4 for my wireless keyboard and use this sweet 15 minute battery charger I got from radio shack a long time ago. This one battery though, it just discharges a hell of a lot faster then the other ones. Anyone know of any home grown remedies? Do I put it out in a lightning storm and hope it gets struck? Something cool like that? :(
 
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Alright I know how to remedy this.
  1. Go to keyboard
  2. open keyboard
  3. take batteries out of keyboard
  4. walk to nearest trash disposal unit
  5. open nearest trash disposal unit
  6. throw batteries in trash disposal unit
  7. go outside
  8. get in car
  9. drive to store
  10. buy new batteries
  11. come home
  12. put new batteries in keyboard
  13. type about experience
 
maybe your 15 min supercharger slowly kills any battery with the slightest defect?
 
So you're sure it's the same battery? Or could it be which ever battery happens to be installed in a particular spot in your keyboard?
 
MotoH said:
[*]go outside

I'm stuck on this step. I don't want to.

lisab said:
So you're sure it's the same battery? Or could it be which ever battery happens to be installed in a particular spot in your keyboard?

I markedthe one that seems to be discharging way faster then usual. Unless i accidently put the same one in the same spot (even though they're in series...), I don't think that's the problem.

I really don't want to replace these becausethey're super cool 15 minute rechargable batteries and i don't think radio shack sells them anymore.
 
Pengwuino said:
I markedthe one that seems to be discharging way faster then usual.
I would test it after charging, before you put it in the keyboard, to make sure it actually charged.
 
MotoH said:
Alright I know how to remedy this.
  1. throw batteries in trash disposal unit

Batteries are toxic waste. You do not dump toxic waste to a thrash disposal unit.

And you want to minimize toxic waste, so you do everything to lengthen the life of your batteries.
 
Buy non-wireless keyboard. Problem fixed.
 
  • #10
magwas said:
Batteries are toxic waste. You do not dump toxic waste to a thrash disposal unit.

And you want to minimize toxic waste, so you do everything to lengthen the life of your batteries.

Ok fine. Throw the batteries in the woods.
 
  • #11
The batteries are normally run in series, which means they should discharge at equal rates unless one is defective.
 
  • #12
Sigh... Pengwuino 0, Derailed threads 1.

I wonder why they stopped selling these 15 minute rechargable batteries. They were so awesome for so long. SADFACE :(
 
  • #13
Pengwuino said:
Sigh... Pengwuino 0, Derailed threads 1.

I wonder why they stopped selling these 15 minute rechargable batteries. They were so awesome for so long. SADFACE :(

ohhhh---

OK---what's the make and model number of your battery?
 
  • #14
Radioshack 1.2V 2Ah Ni-Mh AA batteries, I believe the model is 23-531.

One thing I don't really understand is why there's a few models of batteries and chargers that are like 10-15 minute rechargers, but most seem to be 10-20 hour chargers.
 
Last edited:
  • #16
Pengwuino said:
Radioshack 1.2V 2Ah Ni-Mh AA batteries, I believe the model is 23-531.
Hmmm, I wonder who actually makes those. Radio Shack was never known for selling quality stuff. How long did the batteries last before you had this problem?

It does sound like you have one defective battery. The quick fix is to replace it, though if the other batteries are fairly old then it's best to replace all 4.

I would be tempted to buy a name brand (eg. Energizer or Duracell), get a 1-hour charger, and have 2 sets of batteries.
 
  • #17
MotoH said:
Ok fine. Throw the batteries in the woods.

:biggrin:

I laughed out loud at this one.
 
  • #18
magwas said:
Batteries are toxic waste. You do not dump toxic waste to a thrash disposal unit...
Not all them, not any more than the OP's keyboard.
 

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