Gr8scottie --
As a former portable computer design manager, I can tell you that this
is not a current problem but rather a physical issue between the two
battery types. Nicads lose about 1% of their capacity each DAY (more
if maintaining a system clock or if the battery gets heated) and may
be incapable of the high starting currents required for vehicles.
As the NiCad battery FAQ says: "Yes, NiCds have a bad habit of going
dead when you just leave them. Fortunately you can recharge them. The
current cells discharge about 1 percent a day, maybe a bit less.
Expect them to be mostly flat after 3 months."
http://www.repairfaq.org/ELE/F_NiCd_Battery.html
Lead acid batteries lose relatively little capacity when unused.
However, they do have a negative characteristic that makes them
unsuitable to many electronic devices -- when completely discharged
the cells will sulfite, destroying the battery. A notebook computer
may sit for days unused and completely discharge, but designers use
NiCads or nickel-metal hydrides because they'll tolerate being
completely discharged for a long period of time.
One final note: if putting away the lawnmower or motorcyle for the
winter, it's a good idea to make sure that it is fully charged. I've
found that it's also a good idea to remove the battery, clean the
contacts, store it indoors (though not a higher temperatures), AND put
it on a charger before reinstalling it.
Best regards,
Omnivorous-GA |
