Batteries

Li-Ion (Lithium-Ion) and LiPoly (Lithium Polymer, LiPo)

3.6 V and 7.2 V are common voltages. Up to 1C of current, some go to 10C.

Make sure the charger voltage is less than or equal to the battery voltage, and within 0.1 V. You may use the same 4.2V charger for both lithium ion and lithium ion polymer batteries. Overcharging a 3.6V battery by attaching it to a 4.2V battery charger will permanately damage the battery, and possibly cause a fire or explode!

Never put Li-Ion or LiPoly batteries in parallel, and avoid putting them in series.

Adafruit Micro-Lipo Charger for LiPoly Batt with USB Type C Jack

Depth of discharge is best limited to 80% for maximum life, and do a full discharge after 30 charges. Expect the fully charged condition to be about 4.2 V and then drop to 3.7 V for the majority of the battery life (at max 80% discharge).

Keep lithium batteries away from water. Keep the battery out of extreme hot or cold environments, ideally at 68 ° F.

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4, LFP)

The cycle life of a Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery is more than 4 to 5 times that of other lithium ion polymer batteries. LPF energy density is lower than LiPo.

Ni-MH Batteries (Nickel Metal Hydride)

A good replacement for standard alkaline batteries. Charge at 0.1C. You cannot charge a Ni-MH battery with a Li charger.

Alkaline Batteries

Best choice for a low power requirement project that needs to last for years. Alkaline batteries have an extremely low self discharge rate.

Coin Cell Batteries

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