Computer battery buying tips

Main batteries
CMOS batteries
Bridge batteries

Main batteries

The main battery is the battery used to power laptop computers. When looking to purchase a new main battery from a third-party, make sure you're getting the correct battery. Verify the below specifications either from the bottom of the battery or from the computer manufacturer.

• Type - Get the right battery: Nicad, NiMH, or Li-ion.
• Manufacturer - Some portables may use a certain manufacturer of battery. Verify if a third-party manufacturer's battery was used. Also, make sure the battery is not proprietary and could be purchased from a third-party.
• Voltage - Verify the Voltage of battery; this amount can vary depending on the battery.
• mAH - Verify the mAH of the battery; this amount can vary depending on the battery.

Warranty

Before purchasing the battery, see if the battery comes with any warranty and how long the warranty may be. This makes things easier if it is defective, since you may be able to return the battery for a new battery or for a refund.

Prices

Prices can vary depending on quantity of batteries, size, and the age of the laptop. Below is a list of the most popular batteries and their price range in the U.S. Dollar.

1 NICAD Battery: $80.00 to $150.00
1 NiMH Battery: $100.00 to $160.00
1 Li-Ion Battery: $100.00 to $180.00

Where to buy

Your laptop computer manufacturer is the best place to get a price quote on a replacement battery. After doing this, check any of the links below to get a price quote comparison and find the cheapest solution.

Ebatts.com
Batteries Plus
BatteriesInAFlash
Laptop batteries planet

Charge the battery properly

Once you have received the battery, if it includes documentation for how to charge it for the first time, make sure to follow those instructions exactly. Otherwise it's recommended that you charge the battery for at least 24 hours before use.

Recycle

See the battery recycling section for further information about properly recycling your old defective battery.

CMOS batteries

The CMOS battery is used to store system information, such as the time and date, and should be replaced when receiving the error "System battery dead", if the computer does not keep the correct time or date, or if you are losing a dramatic amount of time over a period of time.

Before replacing the CMOS battery, you need to know what battery the computer is using. This can be done either by opening the computer and locating the battery or through the motherboard or computer documentation. We suggest visiting a local Radio Shack or other electronics store if you've got the battery but can't identify it or to purchase a new battery.

• How to replace the CMOS battery.

Prices

Prices can vary depending on quantity of batteries, size, and the age of laptop. Below is a list of the most popular batteries and their price range in the U.S. Dollar.

CMOS coin battery: $1.00 to $10.00
CMOS RTC battery: $2.00 to $20.00

Bridge batteries

The bridge battery is a small battery that holds a charge for a sufficient amount of time while swapping between main batteries. If you believe that this battery is defective or bad, it is recommended that you contact your laptop manufacturer for a replacement part.