In common notebooks the battery is directly connected to the system board, also known as a motherboard or logic board. However, all notebook computers have a battery pack that provides power to the laptop while not connected to the AC power adaptor. Notebook batteries come in many different shapes and sizes which means they are model particular. As in the Dell laptop battery, for example, the part number can be found behind the battery pack on a bar-coded label. It usually begins with “CNxxx” or “D/PNxxx.”
The laptop’s battery life depends upon factors and issues such as : LCD screen brightness level and intensity, the temperature of the working environment, the amount of CPU usage from programs being used as well as many other factors.
The notebook battery may hold a longer charge if you optimize the power usage settings in the control panel. There you can subordinate screen brightness; lower CPU processing speed, adjust cooling method, and other options. Some of these adjustments can only be circumscribed through the manufacturer’s power management software.
Identifying laptop battery problems :
Let’s assume your notebook stopped running on the battery power. However, it works fine from the AC adapter but shuts down as soon as you unplug the adapter. If that’s the case, try reconnecting the main battery. Remove it from the notebook and install it again. It’s possible the battery is not making good connection with the motherboard .
Ultimately, the easiest way to diagnose the battery is by exchanging it with another known good battery. If the laptop cannot detect the battery , even though it is installed, try replacing the battery with a new one. If you still have the same issue, most likely there is a problem with the system board and a motherboard replacement will be necessary.
Keep in mind that batteries are consumable items and over time they will wear down. When this happens, the battery will hold a charge for noticably less time causing it to nonetheless not hold a charge at all or for only a few minutes.