Tyco Electronics P5400 Batteries, Conditioning Battery Packs, Conditioning NiMH Battery Packs

MM-012099-001, Rev. B

4 BATTERIES

The P5400 series portable radios use rechargeable, recyclable Nickel Cadmium (NiCd), Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), or Lithium Ion (Li Ion) batteries. Please follow the directions below to maximize the useful life of each type of battery.

Do not disassemble or modify Lithium Ion battery packs. The Lithium Ion battery packs are equipped with built-in safety and protection features. Should these features be disabled or tampered with in any way, the battery pack can leak acid, overheat, emit smoke, burst, and/or, ignite.

If the battery is ruptured or is leaking electrolyte that results in skin or eye contact with the electrolyte, immediately flush the affected area with water. If the battery electrolyte gets in the eyes, flush with water for 15 minutes and consult a physician immediately.

4.1CONDITIONING BATTERY PACKS

4.1.1Conditioning NiMH Battery Packs

Condition a new NiMH battery before putting into use. This also applies to rechargeable NiMH batteries that have been stored for long periods (weeks, months, or longer). Conditioning requires fully charging and fully discharging the battery three (3) times using the tri-chemistry charger. The first time the battery is put into the charger, this unit will condition Nickel-based battery packs by automatically charging and discharging (cycling) the battery. Refer to the appropriate charger manual for details.

Failure to properly condition NiMH battery packs before initial use will result in shortened performance by the battery.

CAUTION

4.1.2Conditioning NiCD Battery Packs

A new NiCD battery does not require conditioning before use. However, M/A-COM recommends periodically conditioning NiCD batteries to avoid the memory effect which results when a NiCD battery is repeatedly charged and not fully discharged, further resulting in a lower voltage and a lower capacity. Fortunately, both nominal voltage and capacity are restored through battery conditioning.

Conditioning requires fully charging and fully discharging the battery three (3) times using the tri- chemistry charger. The first time the battery is put into the charger, this unit will condition Nickel-based battery packs by automatically charging and discharging (cycling) the battery. Refer to the appropriate charger manual for details.

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