Optimizing Battery Life; About Charge/Discharge Cycles; Appendix B: Battery And Power Management - Gibson Firebird X Owner's Manual

Appendix B: Battery and Power Management

Appendix B: Battery and Power Management
Firebird X's power source is an on-board, rechargeable, Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) 7.2V battery.
Firebird X can tune itself up to 500 times on a single charge, and recharges in about 70
minutes. Note: Because this battery is a precision device, please follow these instructions
carefully on charging, storage, and optimizing performance.

Optimizing Battery Life

Proper care extends the battery's life, keeps it operating at optimum efficiency, and
preserves the highest possible storage capacity. Please observe the following.
 Charge the battery fully before using Firebird X. Even if Firebird X seems charged
upon arrival, that was done for testing at the factory. Initially charge Firebird X for
at least an hour.
Caution! Do not use any charger other than the one supplied with Firebird X. Li-

Ion batteries require specific charge rates.
 Avoid full discharges that drain the battery completely. Li-Ion batteries like to be
discharged somewhat, then recharged back to full capacity. Firebird X provides a
good environment for Li-Ion batteries, as you'll typically discharge it about halfway
during the length of a concert. Charging the battery back to full charge after playing
provides optimum battery life.
 Avoid elevated temperatures. You don't want to expose any guitar to high
temperatures, but this also shortens battery life dramatically.
 Store the battery properly. If you won't be playing Firebird X for several weeks or
more, discharge the battery partway (about 40-50% of its full charge), remove the
battery, and store it in a cool, but not cold, place. Do not store the battery either
fully charged or fully discharged. Either one can shorten battery life considerably.
 After taking a battery out of storage, charge it fully before playing Firebird X.
This promotes longer battery life.
 Once the battery is fully charged, disconnect the charger. Li-Ion batteries are
"smart" and you can't really overcharge them. However, leaving them connected to
a charger when fully charged uses power unnecessarily.
 These tips don't necessarily apply to laptop computers. Even if a laptop uses an Li-
Ion battery, there are computer-specific considerations. Follow the computer
manufacturer's instructions for proper laptop battery care.

About Charge/Discharge Cycles

An Li-Ion battery is typically rated for 300-500 charge/discharge cycles. In other words, you
can discharge the battery at least 300 times and charge it back up again before its useful
life is over.
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