Manage laptop and gadget batteries

Your laptops and portable devices likely run on Lithium Ion batteries, the current standard for rechargeables. But advice that had been good for previous battery technologies now differs with this current crop.

Recharge the batteries as often as possible. With Lithium Ion, there's no benefit in letting the batteries run out to the end before recharging. You should leave laptops plugged in while working, too.

However, continue to use the batteries regularly. If your laptop is constantly plugged in, run it for a few hours on the battery every day or two. The Lithium Ion batteries work best when occasionally used and recharged.

Store unused batteries at room temperature. First charge them to about half power. Batteries can lose efficiency when stored with too much charge, although your greater threat is storing a battery without charge.