As we examine the characteristics of battery systems and compare alternative power
sources, such as the fuel cell and the internal combustion (IC) engine,
dell PA-21 Adapter we realize that the battery is best suited for portable
and stationary systems. For motive applications such as trains, ocean
going ships and aircraft, the battery lacks capacity, endurance and reliability.
The dividing line, in my opinion, lies with the electric vehicle. We now
compare the battery as a power source and begin with the positive traits,
and then look at the limitations.toshiba PA3469U-1ACA Adapter
Energy storage
Batteries store energy well and for a gateway ADP-65HB BB Adapter
considerable length of time. Primary batteries (non-rechargeable) hold
more energy than secondary (rechargeable), and the self-discharge is
lower. Alkaline cells are good for 10 years with minimal losses. Lead-,
nickel- and lithium-based batteries need periodic recharges to
compensate for lost power.hp Pavilion DV7 Adapter
Specific energy (Capacity)
A battery may hold adequate energy for portable use, but this does not
transfer equally well for large mobile and stationary systems. For example
a 100kg (220lb) battery produces about 10kWh of energy — an IC
engine of the same weight generates 100kW.hp Pavilion DV6500 Adapter
Responsiveness
Batteries have a huge advantage over other power sources in being ready to
deliver on short notice — think of the quick action of the camera flash! There
is no warm-up, as is the case with the internal combustion (IC) engine; the
power from the battery flows within a fraction of a second. In
comparison, a jet engine takes several seconds to gain power, a fuel cell
requires a few minutes, and the cold steam engine of a locomotive needs hours to build up steam.