FAQ
Q: How long does a laptop battery last? When should I consider replacing mine?
A: All rechargeable batteries wear out with time and usage. As time and cumulative use increase, the performance will degrade. For the typical user, noticeable reduction in run time generally will be observed after 18 to 24 months. For a power user, reduction in run time generally may be experienced prior to 18 months. We recommend buying a new Dell laptop battery when the run time does not meet your needs.
Q: How should I choose between two batteries with different Watt hours (Whr) available on one system?
A: Higher Watt hours (Whr) on the same system under the same operating conditions will generally deliver longer battery run time. For example, if you compare the same system, running the same applications, the 53Whr battery would provide approximately 65% more run time than the 32Whr battery.
Q:Can a Dell laptop battery be "overcharged"?
A: No, the battery is designed to stop using the charger when it reaches full charge.
Q: Is it easy to install a battery?
A: Yes, very easy. First, make sure all open files are saved. Next, either attach the AC adapter directly to the laptop or set the system to "hibernate" mode or shut off. Release the latch on the current battery, and simply install the replacement battery.
Q: What is a modular bay battery?
A: In some laptop systems Dell offers a battery that can be used in the optical drive media bay (DVD/CD drive bay). This enables the use of two batteries, potentially extending the available run time
Q: How do I get the most runtime for a charge?
A: It is important to choose settings which allow you to obtain the most runtime from your notebook. Examples to consider: timeout settings for the hard drive, Bluetooth, wireless, LCD brightness, etc
Q: Should I completely discharge my battery before I charge it?
A: No, with current lithium ion batteries this practice does not improve the runtime of the battery. This practice is a holdover from the days in which NiMH batteries were used.
Q: How long does it take for a laptop battery to fully recharge?
A: The charge time varies depending on the system. If the battery supports ExpressChargeT, the battery typically will have greater than 80% charge after about an hour of charging with the system off, and fully charge in about 2 hours with the system off. Batteries that do not support ExpressChargeT typically charge in about 3 hours with the system off. See your system's user's manual for more information.
Q: What are the LED lights on my battery?
A: To check battery charge, press the button and the number of LED lights that appear will tell you charge status. If all lights appear, you have a fully charged battery. Each light that appears accounts for approximately 20% charge.
Q: What does it mean when I push the button on the battery to determine the amount of charge, and alternating LED lights flash?
A: This is an indication that the battery is not working properly. The battery should be replaced.