Lithium-Ion Battery Testing

Consumers rely on lithium-ion technology to power many of today's modern conveniences such as laptop computers, PDA's, power tools, power assisted bicycles, scooters and now automobiles. The demand for lithium-ion batteries is growing rapidly and most noticeably in the automotive industry. The push to produce electric and hybrid vehicles will help reduce our dependence on foreign oil as well as protect the future of our environment.

Growth and progress in many of the world's industries relies on developing lithium-ion battery technology which in turn relies on predictable battery performance – specifically, efficient charge times, long life cycles and safety.

Producing lithium-ion batteries requires much testing. In fact, products containing lithium-ion must pass a regime of eight tests described in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria Part II, Sub-Section 38.3 which include T1: altitude simulation, T2: thermal test, T3: vibration, T4: shock, T5: external short circuit, T6: impact, T7: overcharge and T8: forced discharge.

A lithium-ion battery manufacturer might use Data Translation's VOLTpoint and TEMPpoint instruments in their battery testing laboratories to achieve the T1 – T8 tests.