1. Fully charge your new battery overnight before using it. This process, known as "initializing," ensures that your radio reaches its maximum battery capacity. The charging time varies depending on the battery type: Nickel Cadmium or Nickel Metal Hydride batteries require 14-16 hours, while Lithium-ion/Polymer batteries need an additional 1-2 hours after the charge light turns green.
2. If you have a new Motorola IMPRESS battery and charger, it will go through a calibration cycle indicated by a steady yellow light on the charge status indicator. Allow the battery to complete this process by leaving it in the charger until it is fully charged and displays a steady green light.
3. To prevent capacity loss and a decrease in battery life cycle, store new non-initialized batteries in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry location. Nickel Cadmium batteries can be stored for up to 2 years, while Nickel Metal Hydride and Lithium-ion/Polymer batteries can be stored for up to 18 months.
4. If you are not using batteries for an extended period (more than 30 days), discharge them to about 50% of their capacity before storing them in a cool, dry place. If batteries have been in storage for more than two months, fully discharge and recharge them.
5. When using a Motorola rapid charger, leave the battery in the charger for an additional 1-2 hours after the steady green light appears (applies to non-IMPRES batteries only). Avoid using the charger as a radio stand or leaving a fully charged battery in the charger, as continuous charging can shorten battery life.
6. Only recharge a battery when it needs it. If it is not fully discharged, avoid recharging it unnecessarily.
7. Consider carrying a spare battery if you require longer operating time. This ensures that you always have a backup power source.
8. Avoid returning fully charged non-IMPRES batteries to the charger for an "extra boost." This practice significantly reduces the battery's cycle life.
9. Before charging, stabilize batteries to room temperature (22°C). Charging below 4°C or above 40°C can decrease the battery's cycle life.
10. Remember that the reliability of your radio depends on the battery powering it. Taking these necessary steps to extend battery life and choosing the right batteries will greatly enhance the dependability of your two-way radios.