[radio1_mike]

Originally posted by Richard Cranium


This unit obviously requires the battery to be installed before it will run on AC power, I've seen this before.

What has happened is the battery has done one of two things;

1. Built a Memory
2. Died

If #1 is the case, do this.

I'm assuming the battery voltage is between 6-12v
Get a single filament 12v lamp, any type will do.
The maximum wattage I'd use is 57w [brake light bulb on car]
Solder a couple of wires to the bulb, perhaps 8" or so each.

Check battery voltage, make note.

Place the battery contacts in touch with the bare ends to light up the bulb.
Wait till bulb dims.
Cool battery in bottom of fridge 20min+
Recharge, note voltage*.
Cool battery if warm, note voltage*.

Discharge with lamp again.
Cool battery, note voltage*
Charge & note voltage*

I've revived camcorder batteries like this.

You may have to cycle through this a dozen times to get the amperage back up in the battery.

Noting the voltage will give ya an idea of when the charger cuts off and minimum voltages the battery cycles through.

*Note*
Do not "totally" discharge the battery, by watching the lamp till it gets very dim or just goes off, will leave some voltage in the battery.

Some chargers have a "conditioner" this wil discharge the battery for you.

This procedure only works with Nickle Cadmium.

Nickle Metal Hydride or Lithium Ion do Not need to be discharged.

Thanks RC!

But it is a Lithium battery. The laptop can run alone on AC. And shuts off the exact same way if AC-powered or DC-powered.