quote:
Originally posted by Menthix
I would assume that is true on most laptops. The laptop is smart enough to know when the battery is full.
This is correct.
quote:
Originally posted by Menthix
I think you're referring to the memory effect, this is true for NiCd batteries, but AFAIK it doesn't apply to NiMH batteries which almost every laptop now uses.
This is correct as well, for the most part.
NiMH batteries don't have the memory effect, but they are good for a number of charge cycles. Each charge cycle results in some loss of capacity. The loss is the same for a partial charge cycle as it would be for a full one. Sticking to full cycles would usually result in fewer charge cycles during the same time period, so that is still a valid general recommendation.
Along the same lines, taking the battery out when using the laptop on AC power also remains a valid general recommendation, because all rechargeable batteries "bleed" some charge over the time. You will get occasional short charge cycles even having the laptop always plugged in when you use it, which over time will reduce the battery's capacity.
In practice, however, none of this is worth the trouble. I am certainly not going to bother taking the battery out, let alone keep it in a fridge. That defeats the point of having a laptop, which is being able to conveniently pick it up and take it with you as needed. The battery is a consumable and yes, at some point you will have to replace it just like at some point you have to replace tires on a car.
Just use it as you see fit and it will still last a couple years.
