Portable two way radios are very similar to cell phones in many ways, with one big difference. Cell phones transmit to a tower and portable two way radios transmit directly to one another. People who do own and use both cell phones and two way radios however, all notice one similarity that they both share and that is that their batteries never seem to last as long as they would like.
Newer Better Batteries
This pertains not just to the charge time, but also to the general lifespan of the batteries themselves. The good news, is that developmental researchers have made huge strides in battery technology in recent years and that technology is now available to portable two way radio users.
Twice the Charge Capacity
They are called lithium ion batteries and they hold about twice the charge of nickel cadmium batteries by size. Also, tha have a substantially longer lifespan as well. There is one catch however, and that is that they do cost a little more and they are quite a bit more sensitive to the elements.
Take Good Care of Them
They don't like sudden impacts, so dropping them can have a devastating impact on not just their storage capacity, but their lifespan as well. Also, they must be kept relatively cool, compared to to nickel cadmium batteries. In fact, leaving them in the sun in a car or truck just a few times can have a noticeable impact on how well they function.
Keep Them Cool
Storing lithium ion batteries without use will have a negative impact on their lifespan and they should never be stored fully charged. In fact, it is best if when they are stored they have no more than 45% charge on them. Also, allowing them to overheat even once can leave them considerably degraded.
Two Years at the Most
Even under optimal circumstances, lithium ion batteries can be expected to last no longer then approximately two years. However; under normal working conditions that will most likely last around a year or so. The best place to keep lithium ion batteries when they are not in use is in a refrigerator.
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