Battery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility?

Like virtually all mobile computer manufacturers, Apple recommends that users calibrate their laptop batteries every few months, as Scott pointed out a couple of years ago. Unlike many manufacturers, however, Apple does not include a utility to automatically perform a calibration. Given Apple's uncanny ability to make things user-friendly, this seems like a bit of a glaring oversight. What are the benefits of calibration? Primarily the goal is to ensure that the microprocessor in your battery provides an accurate estimate of how much time you have left on the battery. Over time it can lose track of just how much juice your battery has in it, and calibration gives it a very accurate reading on the battery's health. Older battery technologies also benefited from a process called conditioning, which was typically performed the same way as a current battery's calibration process. In a nutshell, you fully charge the battery, fully discharge it, then fully charge it again. It's unclear whether modern lithium batteries gain anything in an actual capacity perspective from this process, or if it is simply a calibration of the microprocessor for the purpose of providing accurate time estimates.Continue reading Battery calibration recommended by Apple, why no utility?Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

FastMac wants to charge your spare MacBook battery

Section: Apple, Mac + Computers, LaptopsBatteries are essential for your MacBook or MacBook Pro, most of us charge them whenever near a power outlet by simply plugging them in. But there are those situations when you need a spare battery or even more than one spare. Mac laptop owners can now use FastMac’s universal laptop battery charger. Named “U-Charge”, the device can charge a virtually infinite list of Apple laptops – ranging from iBooks to MacBooks. The $69 universal charger includes a variety of different adaptors, for the different Apple laptops that it can power. The following Macs can be charged by the U-Charge: iBook G3 12-inch iBook G4 12-inch MacBook 13-inch MacBook Pro 15-inch MacBook Pro 17-inch PowerBook G3 Bronze (Lombard) PowerBook G3 Pismo PowerBook G4 12-inch PowerBook G4 15-inch PowerBook G4 17-inch Almost all of Apple’s notebook lineup for 5 years is there, with the exception of the MacBook Air, which does not have a removable battery. Unfortunately, it’s not available right now – but FastMac expects to ship these within the next 30 days. Via [Crave] Full Story » | Written by Stephen Chinnadorai for Appletell. | Comment on this Article »

FastMac releases external charger for Mac notebook batteries

FastMac announced a new line of Mac notebook chargers today. FastMac found a work around for Apple not licensing the MagSafe chargers. TruePower U-Charge allows you to charge your notebook's batteries externally. Note that this does not power the Mac, it only charges batteries.This charger will charge iBook G3/G4 12", PowerBook, MacBook, and MacBook Pro batteries without skipping a beat. FastMac also has plans for a 14.4V charger that would charge batteries for the clamshell iBook, iBook G4 14", and Ti PowerBook 15". The TruePower U-Charge comes in 2 different colors (black and white) to match your machine better. The prices for these chargers start at $69.95. You can purchase the U-Charge on the FastMac website.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Apple to Provide Refunds for Notebook Power Adapters?

In another class action suit settlement, Apple has reportedly agreed to give refunds of $25-$79 to as many as 2.3 million PowerBook and iBook owners who purchased faulty power adapters that were prone to spark.Customers who bought ce...

Secrets of Mac trackpad, from iBook to MacBook Air

Depending on which Mac laptop you have, there are up to 10 specialized trackpad functions you can use to make navigating the screen, Mac OS X and various applications faster and easier. Computerworld’s Ryan Faas takes a look at each of them.

TUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPod

If there's anything I've learned about the iPhone 3G since July 11th, it's that the battery life is horrible. If I'm just texting and making the occasional call, I can survive for a day, but if I try to play games or use 3G I know it's going to go to the dreaded red battery icon quickly.That's why there are a growing number of manufacturers who have extended battery packs for the iPhone on the market. For example, I looked at the Kensington Mini Battery Pack and Charger (US$49.99), but the website doesn't show that it works with the iPhone 3G. My next choice was the Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery. This US$49.95 lithium-ion battery pack has saved me from running out of juice prematurely more than once! Read on for more information about this must-have sidekick for the iPhone 3G.Continue reading TUAW Review: Richard | Solo Smart Backup Battery for iPhone / iPodRead | Permalink | Email this | Comments