Topic: Microtrack looses charge @ idle?

[mandoman]

Hi Guys,

Just bought a microtrack. I noticed that unconnected and powered off, the MT
slowly looses it charge over time. After a week, the battery is depleted ~ 1/2 way.
I believe this 'leakage current' will definately contribute to shortened battery life.

Is this normal or should I return it for another one?

If normal, is it better to store the MT when not in use with a totally discharged battery,
or to leave it plugged in to AC power?

Thanks

[Nick Graham]

Unfortunately it's very normal, and noticeable even after a short time.

Charge it completely, put it away for an hour or so, then plug it back up - I guarantee it'll have at least 1/4 of the power already drained and take a good 20 minutes or so to charge back up.

[guysonic]

Hi Guys,

Just bought a microtrack. I noticed that unconnected and powered off, the MT
slowly looses it charge over time. After a week, the battery is depleted ~ 1/2 way.
I believe this 'leakage current' will definately contribute to shortened battery life.

Is this normal or should I return it for another one?

If normal, is it better to store the MT when not in use with a totally discharged battery,
or to leave it plugged in to AC power?


Thanks

The makers of lithium ion batteries suggest NOT storing these at full charge, better for the life of the battery I'm told.  The MT battery indicator seems to read full up with battery at top'd out condition, which may not be the 'normal' resting voltage for a fully charged battery that must come down in voltage a bit after being fully charged or top'd off by the charging circuit.   So the indication of lowered battery voltage after being stored a short time is NOT a true indication of battery charge by all indications.

Suggest only charging up the MT shortly before needing it.   Also remember that a new rechargeable battery regardless of type needs go through a few cycles of discharge/charge before full battery capacity is available.

My site has portable MT charge-run external USB packs with 7 and 14+ ampere capacity that will quickly charge up, and/or run the MT for extended times.   New external BC-MT-A C cell pack (not yet shown) also has external 12 volt Auto connector for charging/running MT from automobile battery with attachable power cord to the USB power sled.

[mandoman]

Thanks for the feedback. I know some level of discharge is normal, it just
seemed noticeably quicker on the MT compared to my minidisc, laptop,
and other rechargeable battery devices I own. Owe well.

A USB battery box is definately planned for exteneded recording.