Battery links
Battery packs
In its simplest form a battery pack is a number of (preferably identical) batteries interconnected to power one source.
Large battery packs, like the 6,831 lithium-ion cells that power the Telsa Roadster sports car, are hugely expensive. However, the same technology is used in smaller battery packs that power portable devices.
Similar technology can be found in the following portable applications:
- Laptop batteries.
- Digital camera batteries.
- Camcorder batteries.
- Cordless phone batteries.
- Mobile phone batteries.
- Drill batteries.
A key benefit is that battery packs typically feature rechargeable batteries. The “high drain” power demands of these electrical devices would typically use the power of a standard alkaline battery in a very short period of time.
Other benefits include:
- Portability.
- Ease of use.
- An impressive cost-to-power ratio.
It’s easy to see why so many of the electrical devices that we use day-to-day are now powered by battery packs.
Buying a replacement battery pack
A wide range of battery types can be used in battery packs. These range from basic connections between AA batteries through to interconnected lithium batteries.
One thing they typically have in common are that they are rechargeable, cutting costs for the user. The problem with rechargeable batteries is that after a typical lifespan of one to three years and 100 to 1000 charges they begin to lose their ability to hold a charge, resulting in a greatly shortened time between charges.
When this occurs a replacement battery must be sought to ensure your portable equipment continues to work to its potential.
Replacements direct from the original manufacturer can be expensive. However, a number of companies, including Varta batteries, offer low-cost alternatives.
Another advantage of having a spare battery is that it can sit fully-charged before plugging into the device when battery power drains.
There are environmental benefits as at the end of their useful lives the batteries can be removed and recycled.
Looking at a battery pack it appears to be quite a simple object - and with it simple to open. While for some this may be a benefit, it is worth remembering that they do pose a chemical and electrical risk and safety precautions should be taken.
However, with so few disadvantages it is clear why battery packs power many of the products we use day-to-day.
