3 Tips For Proper 2 way radio Battery Usage

1 – How do I know when my battery needs to be replaced?
On average, 2 way radio batteries will have a life of 18-24 months. This will vary based upon usage, charging habits etc. On Motorola batteries, there is a date code that will tell you when the battery was manufactured. The first digit represents the last digit of the year of manufacture and the next two digits represent the week number of that year. For example, 952 would mean that the battery was manufactured the last week of December in 2009.
Another way to tell that you 2 way radio battery needs to be replaced is when you turn your radio on and you hear a series of short beeps or you hear short beeps when you try to transmit. A third way to tell that your battery needs to be replaced is when it no longer holds a charge. For example, your fully charged battery that previously lasted 6-8 hours is now only lasting 1-2 hours (these numbers are just for example purposes).
2 – What is the difference between the three main battery types available for 2 way radios?
NiCd, NiMH and Li-Ion are the three main types of batteries available for 2 way radios that are regularly used. According to Motorola, “Nickel cadium (NiCd) batteries are the most cost-effective option because they provide a longer cycle life. They’re ideal for radio users who work in extreme conditions of cold and heat (-30C to +50C). However, NiCd batteries can experience “memory effect” and may not return to full capacity if they’re recharged before being fully discharged. Motorola goes on to say “Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, compared to NiCd batteries of similar size, usually operate 40-50% longer between charges. However, they do not operate as efficiently in extreme temperatures. Also, NiMH batteries are more environmentally friendly because they contain fewer toxic chemicals. Lastly, Motorola describes Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries as “offering the best of both worlds by providing a higher energy-to-weight ration than NiMH batteries and they offer a major advantage by not experiencing “memory effect”.
So, bottom line, when choosing the type of batteries to purchase your first step is to evaluate your company’s needs. Feel free to ask any of our expert engineers or certified sales reps for assistance in choosing.
3 – How do I dispose of my batteries when they are no longer useful?
These types of batteries should not be disposed of in your regular garbage. There are many places that will recycle them for you. Telecom is a battery recycling center so send them to us in our Long Island office (234 Newtown Rd. Plainview, NY 11803) or stop by and drop them off and we will happily recycle them for you.