All about MP3 player batteries: Updated

By Edvarcl Heng, CNET Asia on 27 June 2006

Tags: alkaline | battery | lithium | lithium-ion | mp3 | player

Lithium batteries
Lithium batteries
In an ideal portable world, batteries would probably run forever and a day. We would never need to seek the sanctuary of a power socket nor would our thirsting devices have us scrambling to the nearest 7-Eleven for a pack of alkaline pick-me-ups. But till the day solar panels can power more than just a hybrid car and pocket nuclear reactors become as familiar as iPods, we will just have to make the best out of our love/hate relationship with our batteries, wouldnt we?

So what gives? Why do some MP3 players trounce out dismal performances while others simply dish out music hour after hour like there is no tomorrow?

What's your battery type?
Ever wonder why Lithium is so popular? We investigate its appeal.

Flash versus hard drive: Who guzzles more?
A case of capacity or just something else?

Is it going to rain? How weather can affect battery performance
We blow hot and cold about batteries.

Hold me, thrill me, drain me
We look at features that sap battery life.

Growing old gracefully: Battery-saving tips
It's all about maintenance.

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Isii
15/01/2005 06:29 AM

Some important issues are not addressed in this article! -NiCd batteries need to be recharged after they are drained off juice, recharging them when they have 50% juice will reduce their life time. Is there similar issues with Li-ion, NiMHbatteries? -Is it better/allright to keep Li-ion/NiMH batteries under constant charge? -Is one charging method better than other? (fast/normal, constant current, cinstant voltage) -is there a comprimise as NiMH capacity increases (e.g compare 1800mAh to 2400mAh), such as lifetime?

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