Growing Popularity Of Lithium-Ion Battery Packs

Why are Lithium-Ion battery packs popular? Of all the metals, lithium is the lightest. It has the highest electrochemical potential and provides the highest energy density per weight. G.N. Lewis et al pioneered the idea of Li-Ion battery in 1912. However, it was only in the early 1970's, that the world got its first non-rechargeable lithium batteries for commercial use.

Lithium Ion Power Tools

Qualities of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium Ion Power Tools

Due to the fact that it has the highest energy density, the Li-Ion battery has an edge over the normal nickel cadmium battery. Due to improvements incorporated in the active compounds of the electrode, the Li-Ion battery has an electric power density which is almost three times more than that of the nickel cadmium battery. Besides this, the load capacity of lithium battery is also appreciable. It has a flat discharge curve which gives you the chance to use the saved power in a voltage range of your choice.

One of the noteworthy qualities of lithium-ion battery packs is that they require low maintenance. Memory is absent and the battery requires no scheduled cycling to extend its life. When you compare them with NiMH batteries and Ni-Cd batteries, the self-discharge of Li-Ion battery is less than fifty percent, making it ideal for fuel gauge applications.

The Li-Ion battery features high cell voltage and allows manufacturing of battery packs that consist of a single cell only. This simplifies to a great extent the battery design. Several cell phones of today run on such design.

In modern times, electronic applications feature low supply voltages. This demands fewer cells for every pack of battery. However, you may need higher current flow to get sufficient electrical power at low voltages.

Battery packs featuring low cell resistance allow free current flow.

Improvement Areas In Lithium-Ion Combination

Although the battery pack is safe to use, it requires a protection circuit.

However, such a circuit restricts current flow and this is one area where experts need to work more to arrive at a solution. When not in use, Li-Ion batteries tend to age. The solution for this is to store the battery packs in a cool place that has a 40 percent state-of-charge. Storing batteries under such conditions slows down the aging process. When you order bulk battery packs, your consignment comes under regulatory laws and transportation laws. These laws do not apply for batteries ordered for personal use.

It is true that the cost of production of lithium batteries is higher when compared to nickel cadmium ones. Naturally, their selling price is higher too though not too exorbitant to afford. The cost can be brought down if experts replace the scarce metals with something more easily available, and improve the engineering and battery design.

When you compare the advantages that lithium batteries offer, the improvement areas seem to be less significant. Besides, improvements are most likely in the near future with the advancement of technology. Users certainly cannot ignore the amazing energy density of the lithium-ion battery packs which paves the way for bigger capacities and stunningly low self-discharge qualities.

Growing Popularity Of Lithium-Ion Battery Packs
Lithium Ion Power Tools

Special Price!!! Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit

Nov 08, 2011 08:59:52

Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit
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Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit

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Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit Feature

  • 7 lithium-ion cordless tools for drilling, driving, fastening, sawing, grinding, and more
  • Ideal for pro contractor trades such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and remodeling
  • 30-minute rapid optimum charger communicates with battery's built-in chip during the charging process
  • LXT lithium-ion battery, Energy Star 30-minute rapid optimum charger producs 430-percent total lifetime work, 2.5X more cycles
  • 3-year warranty on tools, 1-year warranty on batteries and charger


Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit Overview

The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Seven-Piece Combo Kit is built for the pro-user who demands a wide range of Best in Class cordless solutions. The LXT702 delivers Seven Lithium-Ion cordless tools for drilling, driving, fastening, cutting, grinding, demolition, and more. Each tool is powered by Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery and the ENERGY STAR rated Makita Rapid Optimum Charger.



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LXT702
18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Seven-Piece Combo Kit Includes:
1/2" Hammer Driver-Drill
Model BHP452Z

See details

Impact Driver
Model BTD141Z

See details

Reciprocating Saw
Model BJR182Z

See details

6-1/2" Circular Saw
Model BSS611Z

See details

4-1/2" Cut-Off / Angle Grinder
Model BGA452Z

See details

Flashlight
Model BML185

See details

Job Site Radio
Model BMR100W

See details

  • Two 18V LXT batteries
  • Rapid optimum charger
  • Contractor bag
  • A Wide Range of Best in Class Cordless Solutions
    Makita's LXT702 includes a 1/2-inch hammer driver-drill with 450 in.lbs. of Max Torque (BHP452Z), a powerful impact driver that weighs only 3.4 pounds (BTD141Z), a 6-1/2-inch circular saw that will cut 2X material at 45 degrees (BSS611Z), a recipro saw with 2,900 SPM (BJR182Z), and a 4-1/2-inch angle grinder with 10,000 RPM (BGA452Z). Accessories include a rechargeable flashlight with Xenon bulb (BML185), and an FM/AM Job Site Radio with iPod/mp3 player compatibility (BMR100W). The LXT702 also includes two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries and a Rapid Optimum Charger for increased battery and charging power -- and less downtime on the job site.

    Built for a Variety of Applications
    The LXT702 delivers a wide range of cordless solutions for drilling, driving, fastening, cutting, grinding, demolition, and more. It's ideal for pro trades including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, remodeling, concrete, and any pro contractor who requires a Best in Class engineered cordless combo kit. The LXT702 is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.

    About Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Series
    As one of the pioneers driving the cordless tool revolution, Makita changed the game with its breakthrough 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Series. Three years after its debut, Makita's LXT Series has grown from seven to over 35 tools, providing a wide range of cordless solutions for professional tradesmen. Makita also added 18V Compact Lithium-Ion for cordless power in a more compact size. Makita's 18V Lithium-Ion batteries and ENERGY STAR rated Optimum Charging System provide several benefits over old battery technology. When compared to traditional 18V Ni-Cd batteries, Makita's 18V Lithium-Ion batteries have 40% less weight, longer run time, and five-times lower self-discharge to keep cells active and ready to use at any time.

    Makita's 18V Lithium-Ion battery delivers 2,000 cycles -- 2.5X more than Ni-Cd. In addition, built-in shock absorbing features help protect the battery, and sixteen firm-holding contact terminals deliver constant high power. During the charging process, a built-in memory chip in the battery communicates with the Optimum Charger for a more efficient charge, extending the battery life. Makita's Optimum Charger is also faster: it will charge an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery in just 30 minutes, and an 18V Compact Lithium-Ion battery in only 15 minutes. Makita also offers a Rapid Automotive Charger for 18V LXT and 18V Compact Lithium-Ion batteries that plugs into 12V DC sockets equipped in most automobiles and trucks for added mobility. Makita's growing line of LXT cordless tool solutions features a wide range of industrial-quality power tools, including driver-drills, impact drivers, impact wrenches, saws, grinders, screwguns, rotary hammers, and more. The LXT Series also offers a jobsite radio, rechargeable flashlights, and several different combo kits.

    About Makita
    Makita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.

    Warranty
    Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita's 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-year warranty. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.

    What's in the Box
    Makita LXT70two 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Seven-Piece Combo Kit includes: 1/2-Inch Hammer Driver-Drill, 6-1/2-Inch Circular Saw, Impact Driver, Reciprocating Saw, 4-1/2-Inch Cut-Off/Angle Grinder, Flashlight, Job Site Radio, two LXT Lithium-Ion batteries, 30-Minute Rapid Optimum Charger, contractor bag with wheels and telescoping handle.


    Other Makita Lithium-Ion Series
    More 18V Lithium-Ion Tools from Makita
    See the entire 18V Lithium-Ion Lineup
    Driver-DrillsImpact DriversImpact Wrenches
    BHP454BDF451BDF452BDA350BTD144BTW450BTW251BTL063
    ConcreteMetalworkingCombo Kits
    BHR240BCS550BPB180LXT1500 15-Tool KitLXT1200 12-Tool KitLXT902 9-Tool Kit





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    Makita LXT702 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 7-Piece Combo Kit

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    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery

    Special Price!!! Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery

    Nov 07, 2011 11:37:06

    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery
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    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery

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    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery Feature

    • Longer runtime and improved performance
    • Compatable with Black & Decker 20 Volt Max lithium ion cordless tools
    • Holds a charge for up to 500 days
    • 2 Year Warranty
    • Easy to install and remove


    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery Overview

    Black & Decker LBXR20 20 Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium Battery is compatible with the 20-Volt Max line of power and gardening tools. These batteries have been formulated for longer runtime and improved performance. This battery is compatible with cordless tool models LST220, LHT120, LPHT120, LSW120, LPP120, LCS120, LLP120, LGC120, LDX120SB and SSL20SB-2.



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    Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery

    Limited Offer Today!! Black & Decker LBXR20 20-Volt MAX Extended Run Time Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Battery Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

    Wifi Internet Radio Receiver

    Types of Bicycle Lights

    There are many different bicycle lights to choose from, and it can be difficult to choose the best one for your needs. Things to consider include the type of light bulb, the power source, and where you want to mount the light to your bicycle.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Bicycle head lights are those mounted to the front of your bicycle that are white and help you to see ahead of you and helps others (drivers and pedestrians) see you. Depending on your riding conditions, you might settle for a cheap headlight system that is more to help others to see you to prevent accidents, or you might need a bright light to help you find your way on a dark bicycle path.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Depending on the length of time and frequency of your nighttime riding, you might decide on an alkaline battery powered light, or one that you can charge while at work before your evening bicycle commute home. The type of light bulb (LED, and halogen are two common types) can affect how long the battery lasts, and also the price of the system.

    Rear bicycle lights are always red and are strictly to help others behind you to see you. These lights can be set to blink mode or steady. Blink mode is essential to your safety especially while riding on a road at night. The blinking will help draw attention to you while a steady light might otherwise be overlooked. These lights most commonly use LED bulbs. Some rear bicycle lights can be seen a great distance, while others might not be bright enough to be seen quickly by drivers in conditions where there are many other lights around.

    Different types of bicycle lights also have different power sources. The simplest and most basic are standard non-rechargeable alkaline batteries. These batteries are cheap, but they are wasteful. However, they tend to last a very long time. Many bicycle lights these days are using lithium-ion batteries. These small compact batteries hold a long charge and can be recharged hundreds of times. Many lithium-ion powered lights can even be charged from the USB ports on your computer giving you a quick and easy way to charge your lights without having to use a dedicated charging adapter.

    While headlights are typically mounted to your bike's handlebars, many lights can also be fitted to your helmet. By having the light on your helmet, it enables you to direct the light to exactly where you need it. This can be helpful in intersections since it allows you to direct the light right at a driver to help them notice you. Rear lights are typically mounted to your seat post, but many can also be mounted to your clothing or a backpack.

    Though there are many different types of bicycle lights to choose from, it is essential that you have lights on when you ride in low light conditions or at night. Your safety depends on it!

    Types of Bicycle Lights
    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Special Price!!! DEWALT DCD760KL 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit

    Nov 06, 2011 15:13:38

    DEWALT DCD760KL  18-Volt 1/2-Inch  Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit
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    DEWALT DCD760KL  18-Volt 1/2-Inch  Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit

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    DEWALT DCD760KL 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit Feature

    • Lightweight design (4.0 lbs) minimizes user fatigue
    • Dual speed range 0-500/0-1700 rpm delivers optimal performance
    • LED worklight provides increased visibility in confined spaces
    • Compact track saw batteries (DC9181) are compatible with the existing system of DEWALT 18v power tools produced since 1996
    • Compact size (8.2-inch) allows users to fit into tight spaces;


    DEWALT DCD760KL 18-Volt 1/2-Inch Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit Overview

    Powered by Lithium-Ion batteries for long-lasting, reliable performance without the weight of nicad packs the DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver is a powerful tool. Its compact and lightweight design provides easy, comfortable handling on the job site or in the shop. Ideal for a range of professional jobs, this efficient tool includes two Lithium-Ion batteries, 30-minute yellow lithium/nicad charger, and heavy-duty kit box.

    callout box top
    1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit
    At a Glance:
    • Offers dual speed range (0-500/0-1,700 rpm)

    • 1/2-inch chuck; 17 clutch settings

    • Powered by rechargeable, long-lasting compact Lithium-Ion batteries

    • Measures 8.2 inches and weighs 4 pounds

    • Backed by a limited three-year warranty; 90-day money-back guarantee
    callout box bottom
    DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver KitThe compact, lightweight design of this drill/driver makes drilling overhead or in tight spaces a cinch. View larger.

    DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver KitEnjoy quick, reliable drilling thanks to the drill/drivers 17 clutch settings. View larger.
    Dual Speed Range for Versatility and Control
    Efficient and powerful, the DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver is a must-have for any job site or professional shop. It offers 17 clutch settings, an LED work light for improved visibility in tight spaces or low-light conditions, and features a user-friendly design that keeps things simple so you can get the job done right the first time. It also offers the convenience of a dual speed range of 0-500/0-1,700 rpm for optimal versatility.

    Lightweight, Compact Design for Tight Spaces
    Weighing in at just 4 pounds with a length of 8.2 inches, the DCD760KL lets you work all day without putting excessive strain on wrists and hands, which helps boost productivity. Its compact size also makes it easy for you to drill in tight spaces like under sinks, and in corners, or a closet.

    Lithium-Ion Batteries for Long-Lasting, Quick-Charging Performance
    The DCD760KL is powered by compact Lithium-Ion batteries that are compatible with the existing system of DEWALT 18-volt power tools produced since 1996. These batteries are far lighter weight than nicad batteries, charge in just 30 minutes, and are long lasting, so you can minimize downtime.

    Warranty Information
    The DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver is backed by a limited three-year warranty, 90-day money-back guarantee, one-year free service contract, and two-year free service contract on the batteries.

    What's in the BoxDrill/driver, two compact Lithium-Ion batteries, 30-minute yellow top Lithium/nicad charger, and heavy-duty kit box.

    DEWALT DCD760KL 1/2-Inch 18-Volt Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver KitFasten and finish hard wood projects with this 18-volt drill/driver.





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    DEWALT DCD760KL  18-Volt 1/2-Inch  Cordless Compact Lithium-Ion Drill/Driver Kit

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    22 Inch Computer Monitor Sander Pad

    Apple iPhone - The Battery Concern

    There is a frantic discussions in various forums about the Apple iPhone battery. People are vomiting their concern about its battery longevity.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    In one of the discussion, one purchaser complained, "I am earnestly reading all I can about this battery because I am very disappointed in it's "life". I now own a charger at home, in my car, and the sync in my office. If I do not keep it plugged in at all times it is dead at 5:00 PM each day. Either I have a defective battery, it's the worst I have ever owned, or I have done or am doing something wrong."

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    It is worth mentioning that the disgruntled customer bought the phone on the opening day of the release. "I leave it in a charge cradle every night, I have wi-fi off, no blue tooth etc. I do use the web from time to time and I do check email. I seldom send email unless I have a wi-fi close by. So other than talking on the phone I do not think I use the other features enough to kill the battery" said the buyer.

    According to the Apple iPhone concern on its battery issue, it says "Most lithium-ion batteries use a fast charge to charge your device to 80% battery capacity, then switch to trickle charging. That's about two hours of charge time to power an iPod to 80% capacity, then another two hours to fully charge it, if you are not using the iPod while charging. You can charge all lithium-ion batteries a large but finite number of times, as defined by charge cycle."

    It elaborates further, "A charge cycle means using all of the battery's power, but that doesn't necessarily mean a single charge."

    How to Maximize Power Use

    The length of time your battery will power your device depends on how you use it. For instance, watching a DVD will use up your notebook battery's power more quickly than simple word processing. You can follow some easy steps to maximize your notebook, iPod, or iPhone battery life.

    Apple iPhone - The Battery Concern
    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Samsung Led Tv

    Drills Drivers, Bits and Drill Driver Safety

    One of the first thing you may look at when selecting a cordless drill driver may be the battery pack as the more volts your cordless drill driver has the more torque you will get. This essentially means that the motor will spin faster creating more power. The only drawback with this is that the more volts your drill has the heavier it will be.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    An adjustable clutch is what separates electric from cordless drill drivers. Located just behind the chuck, the clutch disengages the drive shaft of the drill, making a clicking sound, when a preset level of resistance is reached. The result is that the motor is still turning, but the screwdriver bit isn't. A clutch offers you control so you don't strip a screw or overdrive it once it's snug. It also helps protect the motor when a lot of resistance is met in driving a screw or tightening a bolt. The number of separate clutch settings varies on the drill; better cordless drill drivers have at least 24 settings. With that a lot of clutch settings, you can really fine-tune the power a drill driver delivers. Settings with the lowest numbers are for small screws, higher numbers are for larger screws. Many clutches also have a drill setting, which allows the motor to drive the bit at full power.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Cordless drill drivers are measured in volts. Drills are available in everything from around 2 volts (for a cordless screwdriver) to the newest 24-volt tools. Higher voltage means heavier weight so think about buying a tool that will meet 80-90% of your needs. Twelve to 14.4 volt models are the most popular, and they will usually meet most homeowner's work needs. Corded drills are measured in amps. Generally, a higher amperage motor means more power.

    Nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries represent the latest breakthrough in batteries. They're smaller and run longer than standard nickel-cadmium (Nicad) batteries. NiMH batteries also pose less of a hazard when it comes to disposal than Nicads because they don't contain any cadmium, which is highly toxic. Makita, Bosch, Hitachi and DeWalt offer NiMH batteries, and other manufacturers produce these power cells too.

    Unlike Ni-Cd batteries, lithium-ion batteries may be charged early and often. However, if they are not used for a long time, they may be brought to a charge level of around 40% - 60%. Li-ion batteries may be kept cool. Ideally they are stored in a refrigerator. Aging will take its toll much faster at high temperatures. The high temperatures found in cars cause lithium-ion batteries to degrade rapidly. Storing a Li-ion battery at the correct temperature and charge makes all the difference in maintaining its storage capacity. It is significantly beneficial to avoid storing a lithium-ion battery at full charge. A Li-ion battery stored at 40% charge will last a lot of times longer than one stored at 100% charge, particularly at higher temperatures.

    When drilling deep or large holes with a cordless drill driver, it is best to drill a small pilot hole first. This is very helpful when drilling deep holes because it's sometimes easier to keep the hole straight with a smaller bit. A larger bit will then normally follow the pilot hole. When drilling larger holes, especially in metal, the pilot hole opens an area in the metal to accommodate the tip of the larger bit so the cutting surfaces can more easily reach the uncut metal. Once you've drilled your hole, you'll probably find a burr on the back surface of your material. This can be removed by lightly drilling the back side of the hole with a larger bit. If the material is thin, such as sheet metal, instead of a burr you may find the material is actually distorted leaving a ragged hole. This be stopped by sandwiching the material between two pieces of wood before you drill the hole. As with all tools, exercise caution, wear safety equipment and learn to use the tools properly.

    To drill a satisfactory hole in any material, the correct type of drill bit must be used; it must be used correctly and be sharpened as appropriate. Many jobs around the house require a hole of some kind to be drilled - whether it is putting up a shelf, building a cabinet or hanging a light fitting. For basic requirements, a set of high-speed steel twist bits and some masonry bits will probably be sufficient for the average handyman. But for more sophisticated jobs/material, others bits will be required - perhaps larger, or designed for a specific material/purpose. Good quality cordless drill driver bits can be expensive, so take care of them, keep them in a case or box if possible, rather than allowing them to roll around loose in a toolbox where the cutting edges may be damaged.

    Drills Drivers, Bits and Drill Driver Safety
    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    42 Inch Lcd Lightweight Tandem Double Stroller Epson Powerlite Home Cinema Projector

    Cordless Hedge Trimmers

    This most recent of the Hedge Trimmer types has also seen probably the most development work on the part of manufacturers, and the greatest improvement in machine capabilities.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    At the heart of this innovation lie the new types of battery that are available. The types used now are either Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) or Lithium Ion (Li-ion). Former problems of 'memory effect' that used to shorten effective battery charge life have been banished. They are lighter, more powerful, charge quicker and last longer.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Generally speaking NiCd is used in cheaper models and the more expensive and powerful Li-ion batteries are deployed in higher-specification machines: but this is not an infallible guide to performance.

    The small Bosch 16" has a 14.4V (NiCd) power rating rather than the 18V normally found on others but it boasts the longest running time of its class at 55 minutes (others manage less than 30 minutes).

    A feature worth looking for when choosing a cordless hedge trimmer is a pivoting head or rotating handle, which allows you to cut precise angles or vertical faces easily. This sort of function is built in to the Black & Decker 20" model and the Gardena 19" Ergo Cut.

    Because batteries are expensive and more and more cordless tools are appearing, it is high time that there was some standardisation in the power packs and their charging apparatus. Two manufacturers that have grasped this nettle are Ryobi and Bosch, who offer units that will power not one but many compatible machines of different functions, such as drills and chain saws. Ryobi call their initiative the ONE + concept. Their latest charger will work on either type of battery.

    Check, by the way, that your chosen machine does include a battery: if you do not read the advertisement closely you may find that the surprisingly good headline price for a smart machine may in fact be because it is battery-free.

    Weight may be an issue for some users who do not pump iron and would rather avoid repetitive strain injury. The latest designs from Bosch have aimed for weight reduction and have gone down by 30%: they are achieving as low as 2.2kg, whereas others weigh in at more than 4kg in the same sub-18" category.

    Other nice-to-have features in your trimmer are good ergonomic design that incorporates soft-grip handles: low vibration (such as Black & Decker offer with their asymmetric blade design) and it is worth checking that the blades are laser-cut and diamond ground for maximum effectiveness.

    Be aware that after your cutting session of (usually) 30 to 50 minutes, you are in for a lengthy charging period. You can of course avoid this problem by acquiring another battery and charging it offline. However you should also see how long your planned machine requires for a recharge. Most manufacturers quote 3 hours for their 18V units. One notable exception is Bosch, which offers two different novel solutions.

    Their 20.5" machine carries a twin pack of 14.4V (1.5 amp-hour) batteries. By this means it achieves a running time of 70 minutes (2 x 35 minutes per battery) and a recharging is made easier using standard Bosch units charged offline while you work.

    Cleverer still is the 21" premium model that has a 36V Li-ion battery, a 50 minute run time and charges itself in just 45 minutes: if you are really in a hurry it will be 80% recharged in 25 minutes. Barely enough for a coffee break.

    This same Bosch model adds features like 20mm blade spacing and a sawing function at its tip which means that branches of up to 25mm diameter can be despatched, something that previously was unthinkable from a cordless hedge trimmer. An electronic anti-blocking feature protects the machine from damage. There is also an extra protector for safe cutting along edges of walls or near the ground.

    Right at the top end of the cordless market, in terms of size, specification and price, is the professional 21.5" Makita. This achieves the same 36V as the Bosch by packing two 18V Li-ion batteries. It claims a lower than usual noise level of 86.5dB (these are not quiet machines even in electric form due to their high-speed reciprocating blade mechanisms). It also carries features that include a battery protection circuit, and protection from over-discharge, high temperature and overloading. These are very wise precautions because Li-ion batteries are more prone to damage as a result of such abuses.

    Most machines sold in this market are the smaller ones with blade lengths of under 20 inches. In this mainstream sector it is worth mentioning the models from German garden equipment specialist Gardena. In addition to their typically well-designed and constructed Easy Cut 19.5", which has a large starting button for easy operation, they have an Ergo Cut version with relatively wide blade spacing of 16mm to deal with thicker growth than you can normally tackle. (Most competing models are for light duties and have tooth spacings of 10mm to 12mm). The same model has a blade protector.

    For most users in the hedge trimmer market, there is a cordless model that will suit: and when you add into the equation the extra safety of not trailing a live cable near a cutting device, and it makes the cordless route a very attractive one.

    Cordless Hedge Trimmers
    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Bassinet Stroller Dlp Home Theater Projector

    Traveling With Batteries

    If you are traveling with batteries, especially on a plane, make certain that they are installed in your device and that you carefully package spare batteries.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    Of course it is permissible and safe to take battery operated devices on a plane as long as they are safely packaged. These items include cell phones, cameras, notebook computers, camcorders, various devices for entertainment, equipement needed for medical reasons, battery operated shavers and other personal hygeine devices, and so forth.

    Lithium Ion Power Tools

    As per Federal regulations, "airline passengers who carry batteries or electrical devices in carry-on or checked baggage are responsible for ensuring appropriate steps are taken to protect against dangerous levels of heat that can be generated by inadvertent activation or short-circuiting of these devices while in transportation".

    It is recommended by the Department of Transportation that you pack spare batteries in carry-on baggage. Potential fires are easier to detect in the passenger compartment of an airplane and flight crews have fire extinguishers in the event of a fire involving batteries.

    Batteries are designed to generate an electrical current and transmit power through terminals made of a conductive metal. You should effectively isolate spare batteries from contact with each other and other objects.

    Also you should note that there have been fires of notebook computers caused by defective lithium ion batteries. Major notebook computer manufacturers have recalled lithium ion batteries because of fires and overheating due to production defects.

    Finally, always engage the trigger lock when traveling with batteries installed in cordless power tools. Of course, you should lock any device that has a locking mechanism and you should travel with tools and devices in their case.

    Traveling With Batteries
    Lithium Ion Power Tools

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