How Important Is It to Keep Devices Charged Up?

Owners of Nintendo’s Switch console should know that, as per an announcement from Nintendo, the battery life of their device could be negatively impacted if the device isn’t charged up at least every six months. While this may not be the kind of news you’d expect to find on a business technology blog, it does open the door to a bigger, more pertinent topic: should devices that aren’t used very often be kept charged up?

The fact is that everyone has those devices that they use once in a great while, whether they’re for personal use or for professional purposes. Consider a video camera: for many individuals, it only comes out at birthdays or events, and oftentimes, the same can be said of those that businesses keep on hand.

However, the batteries that power video cameras—and a great many other devices, for that matter—simply weren’t designed to sit idly by and go unused for long periods of time. The battery could see its life diminished, or even explode.

With that in mind, consider how many rechargeable devices you have that you haven’t touched for some time, and the potential risk that’s just sitting there.

How to Safely Store Rechargeable Devices

Whenever these devices are to be stored for extended periods of time, the recommendation is to do so with them hovering at about 50 percent battery life. They should be taken out and refreshed once every three to six months and should always be kept someplace cool and dry.

If the battery hasn’t been used in some time, make sure to double-check that it isn’t damaged before you try to use it. If it turns out to be time to dispose of it, you need to ensure that you are doing so properly.

On the topic, devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets follow a few different rules. These devices will only lose potential battery life after being completely expended and recharged around 500 times. Furthermore, they can be left plugged in without damaging the battery or contributing to the 500-recharge limit.

Why Should a Business Care?

We’ve already gone over the potential risk that all your personal devices could potentially pose. Now, take a moment to consider how many devices are stored in the office, and how much these devices could cost to replace.

To avoid this expensive circumstance, you need to be sure that your technology is properly maintained so that you have it when you need it. It also doesn’t hurt to have somewhere to turn when it does need repairs or replacement. Turn to JensenIT and our team of experienced professionals. Find out what we can do to benefit your business’ technology by calling (847) 803-0044.