Compaq Armada 1700 Reference Manual page 48

Insert a battery pack into the battery bay with the large label on
the battery pack facing up and the battery contacts facing in. Push
the battery pack into the battery bay until it is firmly seated.
When storing the computer for more than two weeks, remove the
battery packs and store them separately to reduce the discharge
rate and increase battery life.
Battery packs self-discharge even when they are not being used.
The rate of self-discharge is affected by temperature. To prolong
battery charge, store batteries in a cool, dry place. High
temperatures cause battery packs to lose their charge more
quickly, thus reducing battery life.