Boosting Your PowerBook's Battery


Newer Technology and IGM sponsor Other World Computing have the world's most powerful PowerBook G4 battery, with a 30% improvement on a standard Apple battery.

There are several models available, including a 48.8Wh battery ($109), which provides a 6% improvement, and the top-of-range 4800mAh model, that gives 42% more capacity - almost double - than the OEM battery ($149.99). For instance, if your standard battery gives around four hours, then you're looking at a 25-minute increase.

4800mAh batteries are also available for the dual-USB iBooks, for a 45% increase in capacity, while owners of the older 'clamshell' iBooks can get a 50% boost. Both the iceBook and the clamshell iBook batteries retail for $139.99.

Lombard/Pismo owners aren't left out either: the OWC LiIONs, rated at 7,200mAh, give a 50% boost to capacity ($159.99). With one in each expansion bay, you could do a full day's work without ever plugging in.

Analysis: Fact is, the Apple batteries aren't cheap (retail is around $130), and they don't perform particularly well, or for that long. My Lombard is on its third battery in exactly 5 years, and this one's capacity has dropped to little more than an hour.