There are more and more everyday items that use a rechargeable power source of one form or another. Unfortunately these batteries do not last forever. The good news is that you can extend the life of these cells by using a few simple to undertake techniques. By learning how to recondition rechargeable batteries, you will save yourself some money. Plus by using them longer, rather than replacing them, you will help the environment too.

Battery Tool

Almost all kinds can be restored to some extent. Below is a simple way to restore your laptop's battery in 4 steps.

Battery Tool

1. Identify the type.

Remove the battery from your laptop and identify what type it is. It will be printed on the case somewhere, and will be either a Nickel Cadmium (NiCd,) Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH,) or Lithium Ion (LiON.). If it is one of the first two types then this technique is the one to use. If however it is a Lithium Ion type then do not use the following technique, as it will have at best no effect, or at worst can damage your battery.

Nickel Cadmium and Nickel Metal Hydride types both suffer from what is called a memory effect, repeated partial discharge and recharge can cause the battery to 'remember' the point at which recharging usually starts, and set this as its base point. This false empty reduces the amount of charge the unit can hold.

The following technique resets the battery, and removes any memory effect, restoring it to near full capacity.

2. Fully Discharge.

There are two ways to achieve this, one involves shorting out your batteries terminals using a special resistive circuit, this fully discharges the power stored safely, and fast. It is important you either buy this tool, or make one from plans (if you are technically gifted.) Never just short out the terminals without this special circuit, as a massive current would be produced, which is dangerous, and can cause a fire or damage the battery beyond repair.

If you don't have this tool then you can fully discharge it by placing it in your laptop, and then entering its setup screen. Usually this is achieved by pressing Del just after switch on. Leave the laptop in this settings mode until it switches itself off due to low power, as this screen bypasses any power saving settings it will be fully flat.

3. Freeze.

Overnight place your battery in the freezer. Place it in a zip lock bag to prevent it coming into contact with any moisture first. Doing this will cool the gel in it and this will remove any memory effect. Once you remove the unit from the freezer, allow it to return to room temperature, make sure it is dry and then recharge it in your laptop.

4. Repeat.

Repeat the last two steps, and fully discharge and freeze the cell once more. After the second charge you should see a vast improvement in the performance of your unit.

This is just one of the many techniques you can use to recondition rechargeable batteries. By following these methods you can restore your laptop's battery in 4 steps. Laptop batteries can be expensive, so doing this will save you money, and also keep them out of landfill so you help the planet too.

How to Recondition Rechargeable Batteries - Restore Your Laptop's Battery in 4 Steps

Battery Tool

Black Friday Bare-Tool Makita BTW450Z High Torque Impact Wrench (Tool Only, No Battery) 2011 Deals

Nov 12, 2011 17:45:58

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>> Click here to update Black Friday prices for Bare-Tool Makita BTW450Z High Torque Impact Wrench (Tool Only, No Battery) <<

Black Friday Bare-Tool Makita BTW450Z High Torque Impact Wrench (Tool Only, No Battery) Feature

Makita-built motor delivers 325 ft.lbs. of max torque, with 1,600 RPM and 2,200 IPM
Compact, ergonomic design, 10-1/2-inches long, 7.5-pounds for reduced operator fatigue
Large rocker switch, built-in LED light, large tool hook, job-site tested shock absorbent handle
Makita LXT lithium-ion battery, Energy Star rated 30-minute rapid optimum charger
Tool only (battery not included), 3-year warranty

Black Friday Bare-Tool Makita BTW450Z High Torque Impact Wrench (Tool Only, No Battery) Overview

Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench delivers high-torque impact power with a 1/2-Inch square drive that will fit impact-rated socket sets. The versatile BTW450Z packs plenty of torque for a wide range of fastening and loosening tasks, and is a powerful and convenient substitute for air powered and AC wrenches.

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BTW450Z Features

POWER - Makita-built motor delivers 325 ft.lbs. of Max Torque with 2,200 IPM at 1,600 RPM

CONVENIENCE - Rocker switch & built-in light

PERFORMANCE - LXT Li-Ion batteries charge in 30 minutes, run longer and deliver 2.5X more cycles

DURABILITY - Rugged tool housing and battery connection increase overall tool life

Battery and charger not included

Tool Specifications

Square drive	1/2"
No load speed	1,600 RPM
Impacts per minute	2,200 IPM
Maximum torque	325 ft.lbs.
Battery	18V LXT Lithium-Ion
Overall length	10-1/2"
Net weight	7.5 lbs. (w/battery)

Makita-Built Motor Engineered for Versatile Power
The BTW450Z features a Makita-built high torque motor that delivers 325 ft.lbs. of Max Torque, 1,600 RPMs, and 2,200 impacts per minute for a wide range of fastening tasks, including removing transmission bolts and lug nuts. Makita's proprietary hammer and anvil impact mechanism are manufactured using the best raw materials with the highest quality steel and unique heat hardening process for maximum fastening and driving power. The unique rubber joint shock absorbent handle helps protect the battery housing from vibration.

Ergonomic Design in a Compact Size
The BTW450Z weighs just 7.5 pounds (with battery, sold separately) and is 10-1/2 inches long with an ergonomic shape that fits like a glove for reduced operator fatigue. The BTW450Z is equipped with a large rocker switch for easier tool use -- even with gloves -- and a 1/2-inch square drive with detent pin is designed for quick release. A built-in L.E.D. light illuminates the work surface for more efficient work.

Versatile Design for a Range of Applications
The BTW450Z is a cordless option to air powered and AC impact wrenches. It is engineered for a range of fastening and loosening tasks and is perfect for steel beam construction, I-beam construction, utility pole, telephone and cell phone pole installation, overhead door installation, mudsills, automotive work, conveyor systems, HVAC, fire sprinklers, oil fields and refineries, anchors, tilt-up construction, and more. It is ideal for steel contractors, commercial contractors, automotive line assemblymen, automobile mechanics, residential contractors, HVAC contractors, and any pro tradesman requiring a best in class engineered impact wrench. The BTW450Z is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best in class engineering.

About Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Series
As one of the pioneers driving the cordless tool revolution, Makita changed the game with its breakthrough 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Series. Three years after its debut, Makita's LXT Series has grown from seven to over 35 tools, providing a wide range of cordless solutions for professional tradesmen. Makita also added 18V Compact Lithium-Ion for cordless power in a more compact size.

About Makita
Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools, and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to produce tools that are stronger, lighter, more powerful and easier to use. Makita USA, Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.

Warranty
Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita's 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-year warranty. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.