Battery Life Equation:
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The battery life equation estimates how long a rechargeable battery will last under a specific load. It calculates the theoretical runtime in hours based on the battery's capacity, voltage, and the power consumption of the device.
The calculator uses the battery life equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation converts the battery's energy capacity (in watt-hours) and divides it by the power consumption to determine runtime.
Details: Accurate battery life estimation is crucial for designing power systems, selecting appropriate batteries for devices, and predicting runtime for portable electronics.
Tips: Enter the battery's capacity in Ah, voltage in V, and load in W. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Is this calculation accurate for all battery types?
A: This provides a theoretical maximum. Real-world performance may vary due to temperature, discharge rates, and battery age.
Q2: How does battery chemistry affect the result?
A: Different chemistries (Li-ion, NiMH, etc.) have varying discharge characteristics, but the basic calculation remains valid.
Q3: Should I include inverter efficiency for AC loads?
A: Yes, for AC systems, divide the result by the inverter's efficiency (typically 0.85-0.95).
Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: It doesn't account for voltage drop during discharge or the battery's depth of discharge limitations.
Q5: Can I use this for battery packs?
A: Yes, use the total capacity and nominal voltage of the entire pack.