Basic Battery Checker

Few things are more frustrating than a device going dead when you least expect it, especially when you're rummaging through a bag of old batteries, unsure which ones still hold a charge. But what if there was a simple, instant way to tell a live battery from a dead one without needing a tester? According to PCWorld's Australian Editor Dominic Bayley, there is – and it's a neat trick involving a quick drop.

Bayley, like many of us, recounts the common struggle of cycling through partially used batteries, often storing them for recycling or "just in case." The real headache, he notes, comes when a device unexpectedly dies, forcing a frustrating trial-and-error search for a viable replacement. His solution? A surprisingly effective "bounce test."

Here's how to perform this quick test at home:
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1. Find Your Surface: Locate a flat, firm surface. A sturdy table or even a thick book will work as your test platform.
2. The Drop: Hold the battery (typically an AA or AAA, though the principle applies to others) vertically above the surface.
3. Release and Observe: Drop the battery straight down onto the surface from a height of approximately 8 inches (about 20cm).

The Key Observation:

The magic lies in how the battery reacts upon impact:

• A fully charged battery will tend to fall with a duller thud, tipping over and staying put on the surface, or bouncing minimally before settling.
• A flat or dead battery, however, will often bounce back up a few centimeters or more, indicating it's no longer worth using.

This simple physical reaction provides a quick and clear indicator of a battery's remaining charge, saving precious time and effort. It's a handy piece of everyday science that can help anyone quickly sort through their battery stash, ensuring you grab a good one when you're in a pinch. So next time you're unsure, just drop it and watch.

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