What types of batteries are used in Powerbook Duo computers and how can I identify them?

PowerBook Duo computers use Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries and come in three types: Type I, II, and III.

Type I batteries came installed in Duo 210 and 230 systems, Type II batteries came installed in Duo 250, 270c, and 280 systems, and Type III batteries were installed in the Duo 280c and 2300. It is possible to use both Type II and Type III batteries in Duo 210 and 230 systems with the addition of appropriate battery management software. Type I batteries can be used in newer Duo systems, but battery life is significantly reduced.

Each succeeding battery type offers improved battery performance over the other. The Type II battery provides as much as 50% longer life than Type I batteries. The Type III battery offers up to 15% longer life than the Type II battery. Type II and Type III batteries can be recharged in as little as three hours, depending on the charging method used.

Type II and Type III batteries have the same model number, but are marked differently. Each has either a "Type 2" or "Type 3" logo printed on it. Type I batteries do not have a logo. In addition, the battery door is different on the Type II and III batteries.

The Type II and Type III batteries can be used on all PowerBook Duo computers when the appropriate software has been installed. The Battery Reconditioning software can only be used on the PowerBook 270c, 280, and 280c.

With a Type III Duo Battery, part number M2780LL/A, you receive:

• Type III battery
• PowerBook Duo Enabler 2.0
• Battery case

Installation of the Type II battery and software on a Duo running System 7.1 or System 7 Pro requires a fresh install of system software utilizing the diskettes that came with the Type II battery which include software specifically designed for the new battery.

Below are the directions for those versions of system software.

• For System 7.1, follow the clean install instructions (search the TIL using clean install as your search query). Substitute the Install Me First diskette that came with the battery for the one with System 7.1. If the diskettes are not available, as a temporary measure, follow the steps below for System 7 Pro.
• For System 7 Pro, copy the new enabler, the new control panels, (PowerBook Display, PowerBook, PowerBook Setup, and AutoRemounter) from the Install Me First diskette to your System folder. Copy the additional files from the Extras disk (Network Control Panel, A/Rose, EtherTalk Phase 2, EtherTalk Prep and New Network Resources) to your System Folder as well, and restart.
• System 7.5 and later has the software built in so no additional software is necessary.

With the exception of System 7.5, which has the software built in, to utilize the Type III battery, you need only install the new Enabler in your system folder. After restarting the Duo, the installation process is complete.

Power Adapter and Recharger Information

Type I, II, and III Duo batteries can be recharged in the recharger model M1812 (Marketing number M4178LL/B). The Type I recharger, model M7778, only supports Type I batteries. Contact Apple or an Apple authorized reseller to obtain the correct model. The model number of the recharger is printed on the bottom of it.

If a red light appears when you place a Type III battery into your recharger, the recharger is either the older model or it needs to be updated.

If you have a recharger model M1812 and you need to update it, follow these steps:

1. Shut down the PowerBook Duo computer, make sure the Type III battery and any necessary software has been installed. If you're running System 7.5.1 the Type III Battery extension must be installed.

2. Plug the power adapter into an AC outlet using the power cord that came with the computer.

3. Snap the recharger onto the side of the power adapter.

4. Plug the power adapter cable into the power adapter port on the back of the Duo computer.

5. Turn on the PowerBook Duo to download the update to the charger.