Tips for Looking After Batteries for Your Two-Way Radio
• Use the official manufacturers charger to ensure full compatibility. Non-Genuine aftermarket chargers may damage your battery and affect its performance.
• Overcharging can harm your battery; always follow the specified charge time.
• Do not leave the radio switched on whilst charging.
• Avoid charging batteries unsupervised such as overnight or at the weekend.
• Never attempt to charge a damaged battery. If there are visible signs of damage, replace it. 2. The Batteries First Charge
• When you get a new battery, give it an initial full charge before using it. This primes the battery for optimal performance and lifespan.
3. Avoid Over-Discharging
• Do not let your battery fully discharge regularly; this can reduce its lifespan.• Charge your radio when the battery indicator shows a low battery level (not completely drained).
• Avoid leaving uncharged for long periods. Best practice is store at around 40 - 50% capacity. 4. Temperature Matters
• Batteries perform best at room temperature (20°C to 25°C or 68°F to 77°F).
• Most Lithium Ion (Li-ion) batteries have safety circuitry built-in and will not operate or charge if outside the temperature range. Refer to the manual for specific radio model and battery type guidance.
• Radio models with internal charging circuits also monitor battery charge voltage, current and temperature during the charging process. The charging process will shut down should there be an out of bounds parameter. Charging pods for in-radio charging are non-intelligent.
• External battery chargers monitor voltage, current and temperature and will shut down the charging process the event of an out of bounds parameter.
• Extreme temperatures can reduce battery life. Try and avoid exposing your radio to excessive heat or cold.
• Do not charge and leave batteries and radios in direct sunlight. 5. Battery Rotation
• If you have multiple batteries, rotate them regularly to ensure even usage. This prevents batteries from overuse while others may remain underused.
6. Clean Contacts
• Keep the battery and radio contacts clean and free from dirt, dust, and debris.• Dirty contacts can lead to poor connectivity and reduced battery life. 7. Storing Spare Batteries
• If you have spare batteries, store them in a cool, dry place at approximately 50% charge.
• Avoid leaving them fully discharged for long periods
• If storing for long periods of time, periodically check the batteries.
8. Battery Replacement
• Avoid buying or using non-genuine batteries. If unsure ask the seller for a copy of the MSDS or relevant approval certification• Keep an eye on your battery's overall performance and charge retention.
• When you notice a significant drop in performance, consider replacing the battery.
• Replace the battery with a new one after five years, even if it still holds a charge. The inside battery material will deteriorate after a while, even with little use.
• Batteries may require replacement before five years depending on usage, such as being used each day and in constant use.
• Lithium Battery manufacturers recommend replacing your battery every 5 years, even if it holds a charge. Batteries have a limited life cycle of between 300 to 500 full charge/discharge cycles.
• Do not use the battery if it is damaged, shows cracks, swollen or damaged.
9. Dispose of Old Batteries Properly
• Dispose of old batteries in a safe and authorised way. Icom batteries can be returned to us. Further guidance on disposal can be found on most online search engines.• Avoid throwing them in the trash, as batteries can contain hazardous materials and can become a fire risk. Conclusion
Taking care of your two-way radio batteries is essential for longevity and reliable performance. These simple and practical tips can assist you in effectively preserving your two-way radio batteries, ensuring your radios remain ready for communication when needed. If you do seek further guidance, information about battery charging will be in your radio’s manual.