[chrisford]

Hi -

I just bought a new 12" Powerbook. I've read a few different opinions as to whether it's better to let the battery run to zero before recharging or whether 'topping up' is better in terms of the best battery life (charge cycles, and so on).

Can someone give me a (near!) definitive answer on this?

Thanks!

[ae86_16v]

The new lithium ion/polymer batteries don't have a "memory effect" so to speak. Which means you could charge them at whatever charge level is left and the battery and it will not be detrimental to battery performance.

How ever, like all batteries, lithium ion batteries still carries a definite number of charge cycles. Which means, after a certain number of charges, the battery will decrease in capacity.

I have read/heard numerous reports, in all practical purposes you could keep it plug in w/ the battery and you'll still get 2 to 3 years battery life on your battery before you can't use it anymore.

I personally when at the desk, I take out my battery.