Laptop Computer Batteries
By Roberta Sullivan

Your laptop computer's battery is a very vital component of your system. Unless you are plugged into an electrical outlet 24/7 then you will want a good laptop computer battery. However, as with everything else in the free world---there are so many choices. And, unless you spend hours scouring the internet you probably don't know which battery will best suit your needs. I've done some research and I will share what I have found so maybe I can save you some time and energy.

There are basically five different types of batteries: alkaline; lead acid; lithium-ion; nickel cadmium; and nickel-metal hydride. Following is a brief explanation of each and their common uses.

Alkaline
The standard alkaline is most commonly used in household appliances-your flashlight, remote control and most children's toys. These batteries can be found almost anywhere. Your laptop computer itself will most likely not use the Alkaline battery because they aren't rechargeable. However, you will need them for a lot of your hardware-PDAs and printers for example.

Lead acid
The lead acid battery is like the battery found in your car. This heavy lead laden energy source is known for its longevity and durability. Obviously, you don't use this in your computer either!

Lithium-Ion
Now we are getting somewhere! The Lithium-Ion battery is a great laptop computer battery. This battery is lightweight and out performs other laptop computer batteries ten fold. The Lithium-Ion doesn't loose its zip over time either. Unless you get a defective one, the Lithium-Ion battery should last as long as your laptop computer.

Nickel Cadmium
Commonly known as the NiCad, this battery was great, in its day. With today's technology this the NiCad can be easily outperformed. The NiCad battery looses its charge fast and over time and multiple chargings it looses its potency.

Nickel-Metal Hydride
The Nikel-Metal Hydride batter is one step above the NiCad when it comes to longevity of the charge. However, this battery is just as bad as the NiCad when it comes to extended usage.