Am I an idiot?

pet575 · Posted: Nov 11, 2008 1:45 pm Post subject: Am I an idiot?

We all know the quick and easy answer. But, in this case, I'm asking about my iPod Nano 4gb (2nd Gen) that I've had for almost 2 years. It just doesn't hold a charge much anymore-I MIGHT be able to get a few hours of playing time out of it but it doesn't last anywhere near as long as it used to. Did I do this to my iPod by leaving it plugged into either my USB hookup or my FM modulator? I was under the impression that the iPod would shut off the charging function and just use the power to operate as needed once it got charged completely.

Do I have that wrong? Did leaving my iPod plugged in for too long "overcharge" it so that it won't last very long now? If so, can I change out the battery or do I have to replace it?

Also, if I do have to replace it, does anyone have any thoughts on replacing it with an iPhone? My phone is getting a little beat up and my Sprint contract is up in April, so I'll be looking for a new phone soon. I use my iPod for running/working out alot and I'm wondering if using the iPhone would be bulky. I'm also wondering if battery life is good enough on the iPhone to use it for working out, listening in the car, and as a phone to where I won't constantly be charging the thing (and opening myself up to the same mistake I made with my Nano)?

Thanks, you guys are a peach.

Wakebrad · Ladies Man Joined: 11 Dec 2003 Posts: 12257 City: Dallas

I'm sure they're putting Lithium Ion batteries in those things. Here is a good write up on how to preserve Li-Ion batteries best and will apply to pretty much any small portable device with a battery.

Generally it's better to charge your ipod as often as possible.

http://www.batteryuniversity.com/parttwo-34.htm

And don't call me a peach.

pet575 · Posted: Nov 11, 2008 2:25 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the info. I got a little concerned when I saw those graphs with all the curvy lines on them, but I think I got the main ideas.

Anyone got anything re: my iPhone questions?

chavez · RIP MHL 04/25/1958 - 01/11/2006

The iPhone isn't bulky really. It's smaller than most regular iPods, and uses flash memory so working out won't bother it.

As for the battery. I noticed that the first day or two the battery kind of sucked, but then it seemed to get better and better the next several days. Now it is holding it's charge quite well, despite constant use either by the exchange server or me actually browsing on Safari.

I'd say it should work fine for what you want, but I'd mix a car charger in there for good measure. $20 is cheap insurance.

pet575 · Posted: Nov 12, 2008 9:44 am Post subject:

Thanks chavez. What is the connection on the iPhone like? Is it the same as the iPod? I already have a car charger, and I'd like the option of being able to use it for an iPhone.

chavez · RIP MHL 04/25/1958 - 01/11/2006

pet575, the new 3g phone has a different charge config. Check with the MFG of that charger to see if it works.

FWIW I have a Griffin PowerJolt (car) and it does charge the phone.

churchy · Posted: Nov 13, 2008 10:03 am Post subject:

Nothing beats the iPhone....

chavez, make sure you turn WiFi off when not using it. It will make night and day difference on you battery. but, you already probably knew and are doing that.