Laptop Batteries - Basics

  • Laptop batteries are identified by a label on them. The label on laptop batteries will have the part number, chemical construction (eg Li-Ion, NiMh), voltage and current printed on it. If this information is not present the laptop make and model will help a sales person identify the laptop battery.
  • The capacity of laptop batteries is measured in milliamp hours (mAh) and is determined by multiplying the current (mA) drawn from the laptop battery by the length of time (h) that the battery can sustain.
  • You cannot use a laptop battery that has a voltage different to the original. If you use a laptop battery with a lower voltage the laptop may not run due to a lack of voltage. If you use a laptop battery with a higher voltage you may damage the laptop.
  • Main laptop batteries will not fit in the bays as secondary laptop batteries. Specially designed bay batteries are required to fit in the bays as a secondary laptop batteries.
  • Always recycle laptop batteries when disposing of them. Laptop batteries contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. If you are unsure of where to recycle your laptop battery contact your battery supplier as they will have a recycling procedure.