Should i run Protected Li ion cells (RCR123 & 18650) until the circuit kicks in?

[stockae92]

to ensure long service long, should run protected Li ion rechargeables (namely RCR123 & 18650) until the low voltage protection circuit kicks in, then recharge the cells? or recharge the cells after a guess-timated 50% (or other %) of charge is gone.

given that i am not (at least trying not to ) abuse the cells (i.e. discharge at a rate of no more than 1.5C to 2C)

 

[SilverFox]

Re: Should i run Protected Li ion cells (RCR123 & 18650) until the circuit kicks in?

Hello Stockae92,

You will get better cycle life if you limit the discharge of Li-Ion cells to 80%. The other 20% is available if you need it, but if you limit the discharge during routine use you will get better life.

Tom

 

[VidPro]

Re: Should i run Protected Li ion cells (RCR123 & 18650) until the circuit kicks in?

and on the opposite side of the above ^ true statement:

deep cycling a AGED UNUSED li-ion cell , increases its available capacity under load, and decreases the voltage drop under load.
as tested by deep cycling within specs, and recharging IMMEDIATALY with a 50-50 pulse charge.

but of course reduces its longevity, because li-ion will do many many more short cycles than deep cycles.