Calculation Hub

Battery Life Calculator

Calculate battery runtime, capacity requirements, and discharge profiles for electronic devices. Optimize battery selection for portable and backup power systems.

About Battery Life Calculator

Understanding Battery Technologies

Modern batteries are the backbone of portable electronics and electric vehicles. Each type has unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications, from powering smartphones to storing renewable energy.

Common Battery Types

TypeEnergy DensityVoltageCycles
Lithium-Ion150-270 Wh/kg3.6V500-1500
NiMH60-120 Wh/kg1.2V300-500
Lead-Acid30-50 Wh/kg2.1V200-300

Battery Life Calculation

Basic Formula: Battery Life (hours) = Battery Capacity (mAh) / Current Draw (mA)
Energy: Energy (Wh) = Voltage (V) × Capacity (Ah)
Power: Power (W) = Voltage (V) × Current (A)

Unit Conversions

  • 1 Ampere (A) = 1000 milliamps (mA)
  • 1 Amp-hour (Ah) = 1000 milliamp-hours (mAh)
  • 1 milliamp (mA) = 1000 microamps (μA)
  • 1 Watt (W) = Voltage × Current

Tips for Accuracy

  • Account for voltage drop over discharge
  • Consider temperature effects
  • Include efficiency losses
  • Factor in self-discharge rates

Typical Battery Capacities

DeviceCapacity RangeBattery Type
Smartphones3000-5000 mAhLi-ion
Laptops4000-8000 mAhLi-ion
Electric Cars50-100 AhLi-ion
AA Batteries2000-3000 mAhNiMH/Alkaline

Environmental Factors

Temperature Effects

  • Cold reduces capacity temporarily
  • Heat increases self-discharge rate
  • Extreme temperatures can damage cells
  • Optimal range: 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Other Factors

  • Humidity affects discharge rate
  • Altitude changes pressure effects
  • Vibration can damage connections
  • UV exposure degrades materials

Battery Management Best Practices

Charging Guidelines

  • Use appropriate charging voltage
  • Avoid overcharging
  • Maintain optimal temperature
  • Use compatible chargers
  • Follow manufacturer guidelines

Storage Tips

  • Store at 40-50% charge
  • Keep in cool, dry place
  • Avoid extreme temperatures
  • Check charge periodically
  • Recharge every 3-6 months

Future Battery Technologies

  • Solid-state batteries: Higher energy density, faster charging, improved safety
  • Graphene batteries: Ultra-fast charging, longer lifespan
  • Sodium-ion: More sustainable and cost-effective alternative
  • Flow batteries: Scalable energy storage for grid applications