🚀 go-pugleaf

In article <7480103@hpfcso.FC.HP.COM>, myers@hpfcso.FC.HP.COM (Bob Myers) writes:
> Then you know too little about NiCds.  Nicad "memory" is a myth, one which
> has been somewhat encouraged to flourish by the fact that these cells will
> show a distinct voltage depression following a severe *overcharge*, regardless
> of the depth of the previous discharge.  (Actually, there has been a
> "memory" effect demonstrated, but it can only occur under VERY special
> conditions, and to date I am aware of no true "memory" problem showing
> up in a comsumer application.  The one "true" memory incident involved
> computer-controlled charging on board a satellite, which resulted in a
> very unique and repeatable charge/discharge cycle.)
> 
> Intentionally discharging nicads to avoid "memory" is a waste of both time
> and cells.
> 

Then, what IS the definitive document on 'care and feeding of nicads' ? Like
alot of others, I have nicad powered equipment that I use infrequently. 
(Two-way radios used in emergencies,  a Notebook P.C that I use in bursts).

What's the best way to keep the batteries charged in such a way that they'll
be fully usable after not being used for a few months ?

Or in the case of the Notebook, if I use it most of the time from the A.C.
adaptor, what should I do to ensure that the battery will support the
machine for a reasonable length of time, when I need it to ?

-- 
   John Rice        K9IJ     |  "Did I say that ?" I must have, but It was
                             |   MY opinion only, no one else's...Especially
                             |   Not my Employer's....
   rice@ttd.teradyne.com     |   Purveyor of Miracles,Magic and Sleight-of-hand