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How the Right Battery Technology is Powering a Silent Revolution on the Water

24V 100Ah agm replacement battery

HIMAX’S 24V 100Ah LIFEPO4 MARINE BATTERY IS REDEFINING RELIABILITY AND PERFORMANCE FOR MODERN ANGLERS

For the dedicated angler, a day on the water is a pursuit of passion, often marred by the persistent, low-frequency hum of a generator or the nagging anxiety of a dying trolling motor battery. The heart of any modern fishing vessel is its electrical system, powering everything from the silent electric trolling motor to the sophisticated fish finders and livewell pumps that are essential for a successful catch. For years, this heart has been powered by heavy, limited lead-acid batteries, a technology with roots in the 19th century. This era is now decisively over. HImax, a leading innovator in advanced energy storage, is spearheading this transformation with its robust 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) marine battery, a product engineered specifically to meet the harsh demands of the marine environment and the high expectations of today’s fishermen.

The critical question for boat owners is no longer merely about upgrading, but about how a specific battery technology can fundamentally enhance their entire fishing experience. It is about why the structural and chemical choices made in a battery’s design—such as the decision to use a rigid, protective outer casing as detailed in HImax’s own technical comparisons—are non-negotiable for safety and performance at sea. The shift to LiFePO4 is a paradigm change, moving from a component that is a constant concern to one that is a pillar of reliability.

Why the Outer Casing is a Critical Safety Feature in a Marine Environment

When analyzing battery options, the distinction between a cell with a rigid outer casing and one without is paramount. HImax’s 24V 100Ah battery utilizes a high-grade, ruggedized casing, a design choice that directly addresses the unforgiving nature of the marine world.

In the confined, often wet, and dynamically shifting space of a boat’s bilge or battery compartment, a battery is susceptible to physical impact, vibration, and accidental short-circuiting from shifting tools or loose wiring. A flexible pouch cell, while space-efficient, is vulnerable to puncture and deformation. The rigid metal casing of the HImax LiFePO4 battery provides essential Mechanical Robustness, acting as a shield against these hazards. It protects the sensitive internal jellyroll from impacts that could cause an internal short circuit—a primary failure mode that can lead to thermal runaway.

Furthermore, this casing serves as a crucial Containment Vessel. In the highly improbable event of an internal cell failure, the robust casing helps to contain the effects, preventing a single point of failure from escalating. For an angler miles from shore, often alone on the water, this intrinsic safety-by-design is not a luxury; it is a fundamental requirement. The HImax casing ensures the battery is a self-contained, secure unit, much like the watertight compartments in a hull itself.

How Superior Cycle Life and Depth of Discharge Translate to Uninterrupted Fishing

The chemistry of Lithium Iron Phosphate is the cornerstone of this battery’s legendary longevity. While a high-quality lead-acid or AGM battery might offer 500-800 cycles before its capacity degrades to 80%, the Himassi 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery is rated for 3,500 to 5,000 cycles. This translates not to years, but to decades of reliable service for the average weekend angler, effectively making it a one-time investment for the lifespan of the boat.

More critically for a day on the water is the Depth of Discharge (DOD). Lead-acid batteries suffer from rapid degradation if discharged beyond 50% of their capacity. This means a 100Ah lead-acid battery only offers a practical 50Ah of usable energy. The HImax LiFePO4 battery, however, can be safely discharged to 100% of its capacity (and routinely to 80-90% for even longer life) without harm. This effectively doubles or even triples the usable runtime compared to a lead-acid battery of the same nominal rating.

For a fisherman, this means a full day of trolling against the current, running multiple livewell pumps, and powering high-definition sonar and radar units without the slightest concern about depleting the battery to a damaging level. It provides the peace of mind to venture further and stay out longer, knowing the power reserve is both substantial and accessible.

Why Weight Savings and Power Stability are Game-Changers for Vessel Performance

The impact of weight on a boat’s performance is a fundamental principle of naval architecture. A typical 24V 100Ah lead-acid battery bank can weigh over 120 pounds (55 kg). The equivalent HImax LiFePO4 system weighs approximately 50-55 pounds (23-25 kg). This reduction of nearly 70 pounds is transformative.

This dramatic weight saving has a cascading positive effect:

Improved Fuel Efficiency: The main engine uses significantly less fuel to get the boat on plane and to maintain cruising speed.

Enhanced Handling and Stability: A lighter boat is more responsive, planes more easily, and sits higher in the water, improving stability and ride quality.

Increased Payload Capacity: The saved weight can be reallocated to fuel, gear, or an extra passenger.

Beyond weight, the power delivery is superior. Lead-acid batteries experience voltage “sag” as they discharge; as the battery depletes, the voltage drops, causing a trolling motor to lose thrust and electronics to behave erratically. The HImax LiFePO4 battery maintains a consistently high voltage throughout almost its entire discharge cycle. This means a trolling motor delivers full, unwavering power from the first cast until the return to the dock, and all onboard electronics operate with flawless stability.

Himax - Custom lithium battery pack24V 100Ah

How Integration and Intelligent Management Ensure Worry-Free Operation

The “how” of integrating this power source is engineered for simplicity and intelligence. The HImax battery is not just a collection of cells in a case; it is a complete power system. It features an integrated Battery Management System (BMS) that acts as an uninterruptible guardian. This sophisticated system provides:

Cell Balancing: It ensures all individual cells within the 24V pack charge and discharge uniformly, maximizing performance and lifespan.

Multi-Layer Protection: The BMS actively guards against over-charging, over-discharging, over-current, short circuits, and high/low-temperature operation.

Communication Capabilities: Many models offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing anglers to monitor the battery’s state of charge, health, and power consumption in real-time directly on a smartphone or chartplotter.

This plug-and-play design, with marine-grade terminals, allows for a straightforward installation as a direct replacement for outdated systems or as the core of a new build. Its versatility makes it the single solution for a wide array of marine applications, from providing relentless power to a 24V trolling motor to serving as a robust “house” battery for all onboard electronics and critical systems like bilge pumps.

In the world of recreational fishing, where success and safety are inextricably linked to dependable technology, the standard for power solutions must be uncompromising. The transition to lithium is more than an upgrade; it is a fundamental shift in capability and confidence. By meticulously engineering its 24V 100Ah marine battery around the core principles of safety through a robust outer casing, unparalleled longevity via LiFePO4 chemistry, and practical superiority through lightweight design and stable power output, HImax has established a new benchmark for marine energy. For the modern angler, this battery is more than a component—it is the silent, reliable, and powerful partner that turns a simple boat into a truly capable fishing platform, enabling longer days, more catches, and absolute confidence on the water.

 

 

 

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Differences Between Purchasing Batteries With and Without an Outer Casing

LiFeo4 12V 150AL Battery

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we specialize in providing a wide range of high-quality batteries, including Li-ion, LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate), Ni-MH (Nickel-Metal Hydride), and LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries. A common consideration for our clients, especially those involved in product integration or DIY projects, is whether to purchase batteries with an outer casing or without one. Understanding the differences between these two options is crucial for selecting the right battery solution for your specific application, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

  1. Structural Integrity and Physical Protection

The most apparent difference lies in the physical structure and the level of protection offered.

Batteries With an Outer Casing: These batteries, such as standard 18650 Li-ion cells or prismatic LiFePO4 batteries, come enclosed in a rigid metal (typically aluminum or steel) or hard plastic casing. This casing serves as the first line of defense against external physical stress. It provides:

Mechanical Robustness: The casing protects the internal electrodes and separator from impacts, punctures, and crushing forces that could occur during handling, installation, or operation.

 

Resistance to Deformation: It helps the battery maintain its shape and structural integrity, preventing internal short circuits that can arise from physical damage.

 

Containment: In the rare event of an internal failure, a robust casing can help contain the effects, enhancing overall safety.

 

Batteries Without an Outer Casing (or with a flexible casing): LiPo batteries are a prime example of this category. They typically feature a flexible, aluminum-plastic laminated pouch. This design offers a different set of characteristics:

 

Lightweight and Flexible: The pouch is significantly lighter than a metal can and can be shaped to fit into slim or irregularly shaped spaces, offering superior design flexibility.

 

Susceptibility to Damage: The trade-off for flexibility is a higher vulnerability to piercing, sharp edges, and excessive flexing. These batteries require careful handling and must be installed in a device that provides its own protective compartment to prevent physical damage.

48v-lithium-batterie

  1. Application and Integration

The choice between cased and uncased batteries is heavily influenced by the target application.

Batteries With an Outer Casing: These are ideal for applications where the battery is a standardized, replaceable component. Examples include:

Consumer electronics (e.g., power tools, laptops, electric scooters) that use cylindrical or prismatic cells.

 

Energy Storage Systems (ESS) and power banks, where multiple cased cells are assembled into a larger battery pack.

 

Applications requiring easy replacement and a high degree of mechanical stability.

 

Batteries Without an Outer Casing: LiPo pouch cells are predominantly used in applications where space, weight, and custom shapes are critical design constraints. Common uses include:

Drones and RC vehicles, where every gram matters.

Ultra-thin smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices.

Custom-built projects where the battery must conform to a specific, non-standard space. In these cases, the end-product’s housing must be designed to protect the battery.

  1. Thermal Management and Heat Dissipation

Thermal performance is a critical factor in battery safety and longevity.

Batteries With an Outer Casing: The metal casing of a cylindrical or prismatic cell acts as a heatsink, helping to distribute and dissipate heat generated during charge and discharge cycles. This can contribute to more stable thermal performance, especially in high-drain applications. However, in tightly packed configurations, thermal management systems are still essential to transfer heat away from the cells.

 

Batteries Without an Outer Casing: LiPo pouch cells have a larger surface-to-volume ratio compared to cylindrical cells. This can, in theory, allow for more efficient heat transfer to the surrounding environment if properly managed. However, because they lack a rigid metal shell, they are more sensitive to high temperatures. Effective thermal management must be integrated into the device itself, often requiring direct contact with a cooling plate or system.

  1. Cost and Customization Considerations

The economic and design flexibility aspects also differ.

Batteries With an Outer Casing: Standard cased cells like 18650s are mass-produced, leading to cost efficiencies. They are generally less expensive for a given capacity and are readily available. Customization is typically limited to standard sizes and specifications.

 

Batteries Without an Outer Casing: While pouch cells can be cost-effective, highly customized shapes and sizes may involve non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs for tooling and design. The primary advantage is the unparalleled freedom to create a battery that perfectly fits a unique product design, potentially reducing the overall size and weight of the final device.

48v golf cart battery upgrade

Conclusion

In summary, the decision to purchase a battery with or without an outer casing from Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. hinges on your specific requirements.

Choose batteries with a rigid outer casing (like standard Li-ion or LiFePO4 cells) when your priority is mechanical robustness, ease of assembly into a pack, replaceability, and cost-effectiveness for standardized applications.

 

Choose batteries with a flexible pouch (like LiPo cells) when your project demands ultra-light weight, a slim profile, or a custom, non-rectangular shape to maximize space utilization, and you have the capability to design a secure and protective housing within your end product.

 

Our technical team at Shenzhen Himax is always available to provide guidance and help you select the most appropriate and safe battery technology—be it Li-ion, LiFePO4, Ni-MH, or LiPo—for your unique application.

 

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Why Customers Need to Provide Peak Current and Duration for Battery Purchases

3.7v-lithium-ion-battery

Why Peak Current and Duration Matter in Battery Selection

At HIMAX, we specialize in manufacturing various battery types including lithium-ion, LiFePO4, nickel-metal hydride, and LiPo batteries. To ensure our customers get the optimal power solution for their specific needs, we request them to provide detailed information about peak current requirements and duration when purchasing batteries. This crucial step helps prevent system failures, safety hazards, and premature battery degradation, ultimately saving time and costs while enhancing performance reliability.

Understanding Peak Current and Its Significance

Peak current refers to the maximum current value a battery can deliver in short bursts under specific conditions. This parameter is fundamentally different from standard capacity measurements (Ah), which focus on total energy storage. The duration indicates how long the battery can sustain this peak output without damage or excessive voltage drop.

For instance, some applications like engine starting require very high current bursts (150-350A) for just 15-30 seconds, while other applications such as power tools may need moderate peak currents for longer periods. Without understanding these requirements, we cannot guarantee the battery will perform as expected in actual operation.

boat-battery-size

The Critical Role in Application Performance

  1. Safety Assurance
    Providing adequate peak current specification helps prevent dangerous situations. When a battery is forced to deliver current beyond its designed capability, it can lead to overheating, potential thermal runaway, or even explosion risks. For example, our LiFePO4 batteries inherently feature stable chemical structures with P-O bonds that remain secure even at high temperatures, but pushing them beyond their designed peak current capabilities still compromises this safety advantage.
  2. Performance Optimization
    Different applications demand different peak current profiles. An emergency start battery for vehicles might need to deliver 100C discharge for 3 seconds(where C is the battery’s capacity), while an AGV or traction vehicle might require 600A peak current for 2 seconds. When customers provide these specifics, we can select or customize batteries with appropriate internal construction and chemistry to maintain stable voltage under these loads.
  3. Lifetime and Reliability
    Batteries subjected to regular current surges beyond their design parameters suffer accelerated degradation. By understanding your peak current needs, we can recommend batteries with sufficient headroom. For instance, our high-quality LiFePO4 batteries can typically handle 4C continuous discharge and 2-5C pulse discharge(200-500A for a 100Ah battery), but we need to know your specific peak requirements to ensure the selected battery will maintain its cycle life of over 2000 chargesunder your operating conditions.

How Temperature Affects Peak Current Capability

Battery performance is significantly influenced by temperature, which directly impacts peak current delivery. Research indicates that temperature is a primary factor affecting battery available energy, with different battery chemistries showing varying sensitivity. For example, LiFePO4 batteries are particularly temperature-sensitive, meaning their peak current capability decreases substantially in cold environments.

When you provide information about your operating temperature range alongside peak current requirements, we can recommend appropriate solutions or necessary protections. Some of our batteries specifically designed for high-current applications can operate across a wide temperature range from -20°C to +60°C, but performance characteristics vary within this range.

The Importance of Duration Specifications

The duration of peak current demand is equally important as the amplitude. We categorize peak current durations into:

Ultra-short pulses (milliseconds to a few seconds) for applications like engine starting

 

Short durations (3-15 seconds) for power tools and emergency systems

Extended peaks (minutes) for special industrial applications

Different battery chemistries and constructions perform differently across these timeframes. For example, some batteries can deliver 100C for 3 seconds but only 30C for 15 seconds. Knowing your duration requirements helps us optimize the battery design to prevent excessive voltage drop or overheating during these critical periods.

Battery Management Systems and Protection

When we understand your peak current requirements, we can incorporate appropriate Battery Management Systems (BMS) with customized protection features. These systems provide overcharge, over-discharge, overcurrent, and short-circuit protection, but need to be calibrated according to your specific peak current profiles. For high-current applications, we implement additional safeguards like temperature control systems and individual cell monitoring to prevent cascading failures.

AED_Battery_Types

Conclusion: Partnership for Optimal Performance

Asking for peak current and duration specifications isn’t just a procedural requirement—it’s fundamental to delivering batteries that perform reliably and safely in your specific applications. This information allows us to leverage our expertise across multiple battery chemistries to recommend the most appropriate solution, whether it’s our safe LiFePO4 batteries with their strong molecular bonds, our high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries, or our reliable nickel-metal hydride batteries.

By partnering with us and sharing these critical parameters, you ensure that the batteries you receive will deliver optimal performance throughout their designed lifespan, preventing unexpected downtime, safety issues, and costly replacements.

For more specific guidance on determining your peak current requirements, please contact our technical team at HIMAX.

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Why Maximum Continuous Discharge Current is Critical for Your Battery Selection

lithium battery design process

As a leading battery provider, Himax Electronics understands that selecting the right battery involves more than just voltage and capacity considerations. One critical piece of information we request from our customers is the maximum continuous discharge current of their applications. This parameter is vital for matching the appropriate battery technology to your specific needs.

This article explores why this specification is so important for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and longevity of both your devices and our batteries.

Understanding Maximum Continuous Discharge Current

The maximum continuous discharge current refers to the steady electrical current that a battery can safely deliver over an extended period without suffering damage or creating safety hazards. This is different from peak or pulse current, which represents short bursts of power. Knowing your device’s continuous current requirement helps us recommend whether you need standard lithium-ion, high-rate LiPo, nickel-metal hydride, or lithium iron phosphate batteries.

48v lifepo4 battery with charger

The Critical Role of Discharge Current in Battery Selection

1. Performance Optimization

Different battery technologies offer varying discharge capabilities:

Standard Lithium-ion: Typically supports moderate discharge rates, often around 1-2C (where C refers to the battery’s capacity). Suitable for everyday electronics.

High-Rate LiPo Batteries: Specifically designed for high-drain applications, with some capable of 25C continuous discharge and 50C burst rates. Ideal for drones, high-performance RC vehicles, and power tools.

Phosphorus Iron Lithium (LiFePO4): Known for excellent high-rate capability, with some emergency start batteries supporting up to 100C discharge for short durations.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH): Modern NiMH batteries can offer 3-5C continuous discharge rates, suitable for various power-intensive applications.

Matching your current requirements to the appropriate battery technology ensures your device operates at peak performance without power starvation.

2. Safety Considerations

Exceeding a battery’s safe discharge parameters can lead to overheating, damage, or safety hazards. When a battery is forced to deliver current beyond its design specifications:

Internal temperature rises excessively, potentially causing thermal runaway

Permanent capacity loss occurs due to electrode damage

In extreme cases, battery swelling, leakage, or fire may result

We prioritize safety through appropriate battery matching rather than relying solely on protection circuits, which the battery industry acknowledges “may not always work” in every scenario.

3. Battery Lifetime and Durability

Using batteries within their specified discharge parameters significantly extends their service life. High-rate discharge, especially when beyond the battery’s rating, accelerates degradation through:

Increased internal heat generation, causing premature aging

Accelerated capacity fade over fewer cycles

Physical stress on internal components

 

For instance, high-rate LiPo batteries maintained according to specifications can retain 95% of their capacity after 100 cycles. Proper current matching ensures you get the maximum lifespan from your battery investment.

4. Avoiding Incompatibility Issues

Providing accurate current requirements helps prevent these common problems:

Voltage Sag: High current draws cause temporary voltage drops, potentially triggering low-voltage cutoff in devices even when batteries are sufficiently charged

Runtime Disappointment: Actual capacity delivered at high discharge rates may be significantly lower than rated capacity

Device Malfunction: Power starvation can cause unexpected resets or performance throttling

himassi-48v-100ah-battery

How Himax Electronics Uses This Information

At Himax Electronics, we analyze your maximum continuous discharge current requirement to:

Recommend the most suitable battery technology from our diverse portfolio

Design battery packs with appropriate current-handling capabilities

Suggest optimal operating parameters for maximum performance and longevity

Prevent potential safety issues associated with mismatched components

Practical Guidance for Customers

To determine your device’s maximum continuous discharge current:

Consult your device manufacturer’s specifications

Use a clamp meter to measure actual current draw during operation

When in doubt, overestimate rather than underestimate your requirements

Consider both continuous and peak current needs

For applications with variable loads, provide us with detailed usage patterns so we can recommend the most appropriate solution.

Conclusion

Providing accurate maximum continuous discharge current information is not just a technical formality—it’s a critical step in ensuring the success of your power-dependent products. At Himax Electronics, we use this information to deliver safe, reliable, and optimized battery solutions that enhance your device’s performance and user satisfaction.

Contact Himax Electronics today to discuss your specific battery requirements and discover how our technical expertise can power your innovations safely and efficiently.

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Why It’s Important to Know the Battery Continuous and Instantaneous Discharge Current — and Their Duration

18650-battery-pack

When selecting or designing a lithium battery, one of the most important technical factors to understand is the discharge current — both continuous and instantaneous (peak). These parameters directly affect how your battery performs, how long it lasts, and how safely it operates.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we often emphasize to our customers that understanding discharge current ratings is just as critical as knowing the voltage or capacity. It’s the key to ensuring that the battery truly matches your system’s real power demands.

1. What Continuous and Instantaneous Discharge Current Mean

Continuous discharge current refers to the maximum current a battery can safely deliver on an ongoing basis without overheating or causing damage to its internal structure.

Instantaneous (or peak) discharge current describes the maximum short-term current the battery can deliver, typically for a few seconds, to handle sudden surges such as motor start-ups or load spikes.

In simple terms:

Continuous = the normal, stable power output

Instantaneous = the short burst of extra power

Understanding both ensures your equipment performs smoothly and safely under all operating conditions.

2. Why Knowing These Values Matters

(1) Ensures Proper Performance

If a device demands more current than the battery can continuously provide, voltage will drop and the system may shut down or restart unexpectedly. This is especially common in high-load applications like robotics, electric tools, and e-bikes.
At Himax, our engineers always help customers match the discharge current rating precisely to their load requirements to ensure consistent performance.

(2) Protects Against Overheating and Safety Risks

When a battery is forced to deliver more than its rated continuous current, it generates excess heat. This can cause the cells to swell, degrade, or in extreme cases, lead to safety hazards.
By knowing both continuous and instantaneous limits, you can design protection systems and select appropriate Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent thermal damage and maintain long-term reliability.

 

(3) Extends Battery Lifespan

Running a battery too close to its maximum discharge limit accelerates aging. The internal chemistry deteriorates faster, leading to reduced capacity and shorter cycle life.
At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we use high-quality 18650 and 21700 cells to ensure that our lithium battery packs maintain stable discharge performance even under demanding conditions.

(4) Helps Optimize System Design

Understanding discharge behavior allows engineers to properly size cables, choose suitable connectors, and configure the BMS. It also supports better thermal design, ensuring the system remains cool and efficient during heavy load.
This data is particularly useful for integrators working on custom lithium battery packs for robotics, energy storage, or industrial automation — core areas where Himax specializes.

(5) Duration Time is Just as Important

The time that a battery can sustain its peak current matters. For example, a motor might draw 80A for just a few seconds when starting up, then stabilize at 20A during normal operation.
A high-quality lithium battery from Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. is designed to handle these short bursts of high current without triggering protection circuits or overheating — something that cheaper batteries often struggle with.

 

3.Summary Table

Parameter Description Why It Matters
Continuous Discharge Current The steady current a battery can safely supply Ensures reliable performance and safety
Instantaneous Discharge Current The short-term maximum current for peak loads Prevents voltage drops during surges
Duration Time How long peak current can be maintained Guarantees stability under dynamic conditions

custom lithium battery

4. Final Thoughts

Understanding the continuous and instantaneous discharge current — and their duration — is not just about technical precision; it’s about safety, reliability, and real-world performance. Whether you’re powering an industrial robot, a smart mobility device, or an energy storage system, choosing the right discharge capability ensures your project operates smoothly and efficiently.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we design and manufacture high-performance lithium-ion battery packs tailored to each customer’s power requirements. Our engineering team can help you select or customize the ideal solution with the correct discharge ratings, ensuring your system gets the performance and safety it deserves.

 

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Why the BMS Can Consume Battery Power and Cause Over-Discharge in a Battery Pack

smart-bms

In every modern lithium-ion battery pack, the Battery Management System (BMS) plays a vital role. It protects the cells, balances voltages, and ensures safe operation.
However, one common issue often overlooked is that the BMS itself can consume power from the battery, and if left unchecked for long periods, this can lead to over-discharge — even when the pack is not in use.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we often explain this phenomenon to customers who are surprised to find that their battery voltage drops over time despite no external load connected. Understanding why this happens helps prevent premature cell damage and extends battery life.

 

1. The BMS Always Draws a Small Standby Current

Even when a battery pack is “off,” the BMS remains partially active. It continuously monitors parameters such as:

Cell voltage and temperature

State of charge (SOC)

Balance circuit status

To perform these functions, the BMS consumes a small quiescent current, usually in the range of tens to hundreds of microamps for low-power systems, and sometimes several milliamps in smart BMS designs with Bluetooth, RS485, or UART communication.

Over days or weeks, this constant drain can slowly discharge the cells. If the pack is stored for several months without recharging, the self-consumption current from the BMS alone can push the battery below its safe voltage limit.

 

2. How BMS Power Consumption Leads to Over-Discharge

(1) Unbalanced Discharge Between Cells

In multi-cell packs, each cell’s voltage can drop slightly differently. The BMS monitors and balances them using small resistors or circuits that bleed current from higher-voltage cells.
During long storage, this balancing current can continue working, drawing more power from specific cells and leading to cell imbalance or deep discharge on some cells.

(2) Continuous Operation of Communication or Protection Circuits

Smart BMS modules — such as those used by Himax — often include communication interfaces (Bluetooth, CAN, UART, etc.). When these functions stay active, they require a small but constant current from the battery.
If the pack is not recharged for a long time, that continuous draw can discharge the pack below 2.5V per cell — a critical point that can permanently damage lithium cells.

(3) Storage Without Periodic Maintenance

If a battery pack is stored for months without being topped up, the combination of BMS self-consumption and natural self-discharge of the cells can cause total pack voltage to fall dangerously low.
Once over-discharged, the cells’ internal chemistry changes — copper dissolves, SEI layers break down — making the pack unstable and unsafe for reuse.

4s-bms

3. Real-World Example

For instance, consider a 14.8V (4S) 20Ah lithium-ion battery pack with a smart BMS that consumes around 1mA in standby mode.
1mA over 90 days equals:
1mA × 24h × 90 ≈ 2.16Ah

That’s roughly 10% of the pack’s capacity lost simply to BMS self-consumption — not counting cell self-discharge. If stored too long, the voltage can easily fall below 3.0V per cell, triggering over-discharge.

 

4. How to Prevent BMS-Related Over-Discharge

To ensure your battery pack remains healthy during storage or transport, Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. recommends the following practices:

Recharge before storage
Charge the pack to around 50–60% SOC before long-term storage.

Disconnect or switch off the BMS
Some Himax smart BMS models include a sleep or shipping mode that fully disconnects the cells from the control board.

Recharge every 3–6 months
Regular maintenance charging keeps cell voltage above the safe threshold.

Use low self-consumption BMS
Choose a BMS with low quiescent current (<50μA) for applications where long idle time is expected. Himax engineers can help customize such designs.

Monitor remotely (optional)
For smart systems, use remote voltage monitoring to detect early voltage drops before the pack reaches an unsafe level.

 

5.Summary

Cause Effect Solution
BMS standby current Gradual voltage drop Use low self-consumption BMS
Continuous balancing Uneven discharge Enable auto-sleep or cutoff
Smart features active Faster drain Disable communication during storage
Long-term storage Deep over-discharge Recharge every few months

Final Thoughts

A BMS is essential for safety, but it is not completely power-free. Without proper maintenance, even a small standby current can slowly drain the battery pack and cause over-discharge damage.

 

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we design and manufacture lithium battery packs with intelligent, energy-efficient BMS solutions that minimize self-consumption and protect against deep discharge. Our engineering team can help you select the right configuration or customize a smart BMS that matches your application perfectly — from robotics and industrial systems to energy storage and portable equipment.

 

bms architecture

 

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Why It’s Important to Recharge Lithium Batteries Every Three Months

lithium-ion-batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high energy density, low self-discharge rate, and long cycle life. However, even with all these advantages, regular maintenance charging is still essential — especially when the battery is not in active use.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we always recommend our customers to recharge their lithium batteries every three months, whether the pack is in storage, standby, or temporarily unused. This simple habit can make a significant difference in the lifespan, safety, and performance of your battery pack.

1. All Batteries Lose Energy Over Time

Even when disconnected from any equipment, a lithium-ion battery gradually loses energy due to two main factors:

Self-discharge: The natural chemical reactions inside the cells slowly reduce the stored charge.

BMS (Battery Management System) standby consumption: The BMS draws a small current to monitor cell voltages and protect the pack.

While these currents are small, over weeks or months they can reduce the pack’s voltage significantly. If the voltage drops below the safe threshold (usually around 2.5–3.0V per cell), the battery can enter an over-discharged state, which permanently damages the cells.

2. What Happens When a Battery Is Not Recharged Regularly

When a lithium battery remains in a low-voltage condition for too long, several harmful processes can occur:

Degradation of the electrolyte: The internal electrolyte becomes unstable, leading to capacity loss.

Copper dissolution: The current collector inside the cell can start to dissolve, creating internal shorts.

Increased internal resistance: This reduces the battery’s ability to deliver power effectively.

Permanent capacity loss: Once deep over-discharge occurs, the battery cannot recover to its original capacity, even after charging.

In some cases, an over-discharged pack may become unsafe to recharge at all.

3.7v-lithium-ion-battery

3. Why the “Every 3 Months” Rule Works

The “recharge every three months” rule is based on the natural self-discharge rate and BMS power consumption of most lithium battery systems. For example:

A well-designed battery pack from Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. typically has a self-discharge rate below 3% per month, including BMS standby current.

After 3 months, the battery may have lost around 9–10% of its stored energy.

Recharging at this interval keeps the voltage within a healthy range, preventing it from falling below the critical limit. This helps the cells stay balanced and chemically stable over long periods of storage.

4. Best Practices for Battery Maintenance

To keep your lithium battery in top condition, Himax engineers recommend the following maintenance guidelines:

Store at 50–60% state of charge (SOC): Neither fully charged nor fully empty.

Recharge every 3 months: Even if the pack is unused, give it a short top-up charge.

Avoid storing in extreme temperatures: High heat accelerates aging, while low temperatures slow down chemical recovery.

Use the correct charger: Always use a charger designed for the specific lithium chemistry and voltage configuration.

Check voltage before use: If the pack has been idle for several months, measure the voltage before powering up the system.

Following these steps ensures the battery remains safe, stable, and ready for use whenever needed.

5. Real Example

Imagine a 14.8V 20Ah lithium-ion battery pack stored in a warehouse for six months without recharging.

If its self-discharge rate is around 3% per month, it could lose over 15% of capacity.

Combined with BMS standby current, the total voltage may drop close to the cutoff point.

When this happens, the battery may appear “dead” or fail to charge properly. A simple 3-month top-up would have prevented this

problem completely.

10C_discharge_battery

6. Conclusion

Regular recharging is not just maintenance — it’s protection for your investment. Keeping lithium batteries within a safe voltage range ensures:

Longer cycle life

Stable capacity

Safe operation

Reliable performance when needed

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we design our lithium battery packs and BMS systems to deliver long-term stability with minimal self-discharge. However, even the most advanced batteries require proper care. Recharging every three months is an easy and effective way to protect your battery, avoid over-discharge, and ensure it performs like new — every time you power it on.

 

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How to Best Store a Lithium Battery

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used today in robotics, electric tools, solar energy systems, and countless portable devices. They are known for their high energy density, long cycle life, and stable performance. However, proper storage is essential to keep these batteries healthy and to prevent capacity loss or safety issues over time.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we often remind customers that even the most advanced lithium battery can deteriorate quickly if it is not stored under the right conditions. Knowing how to store your battery correctly ensures longer lifespan, reliable performance, and maximum safety.

Why Proper Storage Matters

When a lithium battery is not in use, chemical reactions inside the cells still continue slowly. These reactions cause self-discharge, capacity fade, and voltage imbalance over time.
Poor storage conditions — such as high temperature, high humidity, or deep discharge — can significantly accelerate these effects.

By storing your lithium battery properly, you can:

 

  • Prevent over-discharge and cell damage
  • Maintain voltage balance among cells
  • Slow down natural aging
  • Keep the pack ready for safe use anytime

himax custom battery

The Ideal State of Charge (SOC) for Storage

One of the most common mistakes is storing batteries either fully charged or completely empty.

The ideal storage state of charge for most lithium-ion batteries is between 50% and 60%.

 

If stored fully charged (100%): The high voltage accelerates electrolyte oxidation and capacity loss.

 

If stored fully discharged (0%): The voltage may drop too low, leading to irreversible chemical damage and over-discharge.

 

At Himax, every lithium battery pack we ship is pre-charged to a safe storage level to ensure long-term stability during transport and inventory periods.

Recommended Temperature and Environment

Temperature is one of the biggest factors affecting lithium battery health.

Best storage temperature:

 

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) — cool, dry, and stable.

 

Avoid:

High heat (>40°C / 104°F): Accelerates chemical aging and gas generation.

 

 

Freezing conditions (<0°C / 32°F): Can cause lithium plating inside the cell.

 

High humidity: Leads to corrosion and oxidation at battery terminals.

 

Store the battery in a clean, dry, and ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight or flammable materials.

Recharge Regularly During Storage

Even when disconnected, lithium batteries gradually lose charge due to self-discharge and BMS standby current.
If the battery is stored too long without recharging, voltage can drop below the safety threshold and cause over-discharge.

To avoid this:

 

Recharge the battery every 3 months to maintain proper voltage.

 

Use a charger designed for your specific battery type and voltage.

 

For long-term storage, enable the sleep mode or shipping mode if your BMS supports it.

 

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., our smart BMS designs include low self-consumption circuits and optional sleep functions to protect batteries during long storage or transport.

Storage Tips for Different Applications

For Individual Users:

 

Disconnect the battery from your device when not in use.

 

Keep it in a cool drawer or cabinet — not inside a hot vehicle.

 

For Industrial or OEM Users:

 

Store battery packs in a controlled warehouse environment.

 

Place batteries on insulated shelves (not directly on concrete floors).

 

Record the storage date and periodically check voltage.

 

For Large-Scale Projects:

 

Follow local safety regulations for lithium battery storage.

 

 

Avoid stacking heavy packs together to prevent mechanical stress.

 

Ensure fire safety equipment and ventilation are in place.

 

Summary of Storage Guidelines

Factor Recommended Condition Why It Matters
State of Charge (SOC) 50–60% Prevents both overcharge and deep discharge
Temperature 15°C–25°C Reduces chemical aging
Humidity <60% RH Prevents corrosion
Recharging Every 3 months Maintains safe voltage
Environment Cool, dry, ventilated Ensures long-term safety and stability

Final Thoughts

Proper storage is not complicated, but it makes all the difference between a battery that lasts for years and one that fails prematurely.
By keeping your lithium battery at the right charge level, in a cool and dry place, and recharging it periodically, you can maintain both performance and safety for the long term.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we specialize in manufacturing high-quality lithium-ion batteries and smart BMS systems designed for long-term stability and safety. Whether you need customized battery solutions for robotics, industrial equipment, or energy storage, our engineering team ensures your batteries stay reliable — even after months of storage.

 

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Why the RS485 Communication BMS Needs to Be Fully Charged to Get an Accurate SOC

b2b-battery-solutions

In lithium battery systems equipped with RS485 communication BMS, users sometimes notice that the state of charge (SOC) reading is not accurate right after the battery is first assembled or partially charged. The most common question we hear at Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. is:

“Why do I need to fully charge the battery before the BMS can show the correct SOC?”

The answer lies in how the BMS measures and calibrates the SOC — and how the cells inside the battery behave during charging and balancing.

1. Understanding SOC (State of Charge)

The State of Charge (SOC) represents how much energy remains in a battery compared to its full capacity. It’s typically expressed as a percentage:

 

However, SOC is not directly measurable — it’s an estimated value calculated by the BMS based on voltage, current, and time (known as coulomb counting).

Because of this, the SOC accuracy depends on precise calibration between the battery’s actual capacity and the BMS’s internal calculation.

2. How the RS485 BMS Calculates SOC

A BMS with RS485 communication is designed to collect real-time data from the battery pack — such as:

Total voltage

Current flow (charge/discharge)

Cell voltages and temperatures

Remaining capacity (Ah)

It then communicates these values to the host system, inverter, or display screen.

 

But when the BMS is first installed or after deep discharge, its internal SOC counter may not match the real battery capacity. The only way for the BMS to “learn” the true full capacity is through a complete charge calibration cycle.

lifepo4-battery-soc

3. Why Full Charging Is Necessary for Accurate SOC

There are three key reasons why full charging allows the BMS to correct and stabilize the SOC reading:

(1) Cell Voltage Balancing

During charging, the BMS equalizes the voltage of each cell through its balancing circuit.
If the cells are not balanced, some may reach their maximum voltage earlier than others, causing the pack voltage to rise unevenly.
A full charge ensures that all cells reach their upper voltage limit (e.g., 4.20V per cell), which provides a clear reference point for the BMS to mark “100% SOC.”

(2) Calibration of Coulomb Counting

The BMS tracks how much current enters or leaves the battery to estimate capacity. Over time, this method accumulates small measurement errors.
A full charge helps the BMS reset or recalibrate the coulomb counter, aligning the calculated capacity with the actual stored energy.

(3) Accurate SOC Synchronization with RS485 Data

When using RS485 communication, the SOC data sent to other devices — such as an inverter, controller, or monitoring system — must match the real battery condition.
A full charge establishes a reliable reference point for 100% SOC, ensuring that the system displays consistent and accurate information across all devices.

4. What Happens If the Battery Is Not Fully Charged

If a lithium battery with an RS485 BMS is not fully charged:

 

The SOC may drift over time because the BMS cannot confirm its upper voltage reference.

 

The system may show incorrect SOC readings, such as 85% when the battery is already full or 0% when capacity remains.

 

In energy storage systems, the inverter may misinterpret SOC, leading to early cutoffs or incomplete charging cycles.

 

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we’ve seen cases where customers believed their battery capacity was lower than expected — but after a full charge and balance cycle, the SOC corrected itself automatically.

5. How to Perform the Initial Calibration

To ensure accurate SOC readings for RS485 communication BMS packs, follow these steps:

 

Fully charge the battery until it reaches the rated voltage (e.g., 16.8V for a 4S pack, 29.4V for a 7S pack).

 

Keep charging for an additional 30–60 minutes to allow cell balancing to complete.

 

Once the pack is balanced and current drops near zero, the BMS sets that point as 100% SOC.

 

Afterward, perform a full discharge to the cut-off voltage to help the BMS calibrate the lower limit (0% SOC).

 

This process ensures the RS485 BMS communicates an accurate and reliable SOC to your monitoring equipment.

custom battery manufacturer

6. Final Thoughts

 

A full charge is not just about topping up energy — it’s about calibration and synchronization. For RS485 communication BMS systems, this step allows the controller to correctly recognize the real capacity of the battery and prevent misleading readings.

At Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd., we design our smart lithium battery packs and RS485 BMS systems with advanced balancing and high-accuracy SOC algorithms to minimize drift and improve precision. Still, performing a full charge during the initial setup or after long storage remains an essential step to ensure the most accurate performance data.

 

Proper calibration guarantees that your system always knows the true energy status of the battery — delivering reliability, safety, and efficiency for every application.

 

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How Himax’s 11.1V 2.6Ah Lithium-Ion Battery Pack is Powering the Next Generation of Medical Display Devices

10C_discharge_battery

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare technology, innovation isn’t just about precision — it’s about reliability, portability, and endurance. Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. (Himax), a leading manufacturer of custom lithium and NiMH battery packs, is once again making waves with its latest development: the 11.1V 2.6Ah lithium-ion battery pack designed specifically for medical display equipment. With a strong focus on safety, energy density, and customization, Himax is setting a new benchmark for powering critical healthcare systems where performance truly matters.

Powering Healthcare with Intelligence and Reliability

Modern medical devices — from portable monitors and handheld diagnostic tools to high-definition medical display screens — require compact, long-lasting, and stable power solutions. In these applications, even the smallest fluctuations in voltage or performance can have life-altering consequences. That’s where Himax’s 11.1V 2.6Ah Li-ion battery pack comes in.

The battery pack is engineered using high-grade 18650 lithium-ion cells configured in a 3S1P arrangement, providing 11.1V nominal voltage and 2.6Ah capacity. This configuration ensures a steady and consistent power supply, ideal for sensitive medical imaging displays and mobile diagnostic devices that must function continuously and accurately.

With a compact size, lightweight structure, and excellent energy efficiency, this battery pack meets the needs of manufacturers seeking balance between portability and performance. Whether used in medical tablets, patient monitoring screens, or portable ultrasound systems, the Himax battery pack guarantees smooth operation with dependable backup power — even in demanding medical environments.

Precision Engineering for Medical-Grade Performance

The 11.1V 2.6Ah Li-ion pack represents more than just an energy source; it’s the result of Himax’s continuous dedication to quality engineering and process excellence. Every pack is designed, assembled, and tested under ISO9001 and IEC62133 compliant facilities, ensuring full traceability and consistency across production batches.

 

1. Built for Safety and Stability

Safety is the cornerstone of any medical device. Himax’s battery pack incorporates multiple layers of protection circuits (PCM/BMS) that monitor voltage, current, and temperature in real time. These systems prevent overcharging, over-discharging, short circuits, and over-temperature conditions, significantly reducing risks during operation or long-term storage.

The battery’s low self-discharge rate and excellent cycle life make it especially suitable for medical devices that require both standby readiness and reliable daily performance. The inclusion of medical-grade connector options, such as Molex or JST interfaces, ensures seamless integration with medical display systems, providing plug-and-play convenience for manufacturers.

2. High Energy Density with Long Cycle Life

The 11.1V 2.6Ah pack delivers a high energy density that allows medical devices to operate longer between charges, supporting healthcare professionals in critical environments where uninterrupted power is essential. It maintains consistent performance even after 500+ charge cycles, retaining more than 80% of its original capacity, a key requirement for professional-grade medical electronics.

The use of premium lithium-ion cells ensures both high voltage stability and temperature resilience, enabling reliable operation under varying environmental conditions — from hospital wards to field diagnostics.

3. Compact Design, Custom Configurations

Himax understands that no two medical applications are the same. The 11.1V 2.6Ah pack can be customized in terms of shape, connector type, wire length, and mounting options, allowing it to fit precisely within the spatial constraints of each device. Engineers can also choose optional housing materials — such as flame-retardant ABS casings — to comply with medical device safety standards.

This flexibility has made Himax a trusted partner for OEM and ODM projects in the global medical technology market. Many clients across Europe, North America, and Australia rely on Himax’s ability to provide both small-batch prototypes and mass production with consistent quality assurance.

Meeting the Power Demands of Modern Medical Displays

Medical display systems are evolving rapidly. From surgical imaging monitors to portable diagnostic displays, these devices demand consistent, flicker-free power to maintain accurate color rendering, high brightness, and data precision. Himax’s 11.1V 2.6Ah lithium-ion battery addresses these demands by delivering stable voltage output throughout the discharge cycle, minimizing signal noise and display fluctuations.

This stability translates directly into improved image accuracy, data reliability, and longer uptime — essential for clinicians making real-time decisions based on visual data. The battery’s smart power management system also allows for efficient recharging cycles, reducing downtime and increasing operational efficiency in medical environments.

Furthermore, Himax provides optional features such as SMBus or I²C communication modules, enabling real-time battery status monitoring — including voltage, capacity, temperature, and cycle count. This capability supports predictive maintenance and enhances patient safety by preventing unexpected power loss during use.

Sustainability and Compliance

As global attention turns toward sustainability, medical device manufacturers face growing pressure to adopt environmentally responsible components. Himax’s lithium-ion battery packs are fully RoHS and REACH compliant, ensuring minimal environmental impact and adherence to international health and safety standards.

The company’s production lines feature both automated and semi-automated assembly systems, minimizing human error and ensuring consistent quality control. Himax’s in-house engineering team conducts rigorous testing for vibration, drop resistance, and thermal stability — guaranteeing each battery’s reliability before shipment.

By maintaining a dedicated warehouse in Melbourne, Australia, Himax also provides faster delivery and localized support for clients in the Oceania region, reducing lead times and improving supply chain resilience.

Global Expertise and Custom Solutions

With over a decade of experience in battery pack design and manufacturing, Himax continues to collaborate with medical technology innovators worldwide. The company’s expertise extends across Li-ion, LiFePO₄, and NiMH battery technologies, catering to diverse applications in healthcare, industrial automation, and smart mobility.

For clients requiring tailored solutions, Himax offers full engineering consultation, 3D battery modeling, and sample prototyping, ensuring that each design perfectly aligns with the performance, safety, and certification needs of its target device.

This customer-centric approach has earned Himax long-term partnerships with numerous well-known international companies, positioning it as a trusted energy solutions provider in the global medical technology supply chain.

A Vision for the Future

As healthcare continues its digital transformation, reliable portable power will remain the backbone of innovation. Medical devices are getting smaller, smarter, and more connected — and that evolution demands batteries that are equally advanced. Himax’s 11.1V 2.6Ah lithium-ion battery pack is not only meeting today’s technical standards but also anticipating tomorrow’s challenges.

From its design philosophy to its engineering precision, Himax remains committed to empowering healthcare technology through safer, smarter, and more efficient energy solutions. The company’s dedication to excellence ensures that hospitals, laboratories, and healthcare professionals around the world can rely on their devices — and the batteries within them — when every second counts.

high-quality-18650-battery-holder-materials

About Himax

Shenzhen Himax Electronics Co., Ltd. is a professional manufacturer specializing in customized lithium-ion (Li-ion), lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄), and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery packs. With automated production lines capable of processing 3 million cells per week and a team of experienced engineers, Himax delivers tailored power solutions for industries including medical, industrial, smart devices, and renewable energy.

With operations in China and Australia, Himax supports global clients through fast lead times, technical expertise, and flexible customization options — empowering innovation one battery pack at a time.