Automatic battery detection system and method for detecting a rechargeable battery with low remaining charge

A method, comprising the steps of:

• powering an electronic hand-held device with a power source;
• testing the power source when the electronic hand-held device is held by a holding device, the testing being performed by a controller in the holding device, prior to beginning a recharging operation, to determine if the power source should not be recharged;
• and
• controlling an operation of the electronic hand-held device based on the testing step.

A method for determining if a battery powering a handheld electronic device transceiver should not be recharged, the method comprising the steps of:

• performing a battery voltage test on the battery;
• performing an IR test on the battery;
• and
• performing a time charge test on the battery;
• the testing of the battery being performed by a controller in a charging cradle when the transceiver is held in the charging cradle, prior to beginning a recharging operation.

A system, comprising:

• means for receiving electricity from a first power source and for converting the electricity such that it flows into and through the system;
• means for controlling the system, the means for controlling the system controlling a plurality of tests performed on a second power source that powers a device, the tests determining, prior to beginning a recharging operation, if the second power source should not be recharged, and, responsive to the tests, controlling a switch used to turn on an amplifier that amplifies the electricity flowing through the system;
• means for outputting constant current when the switch is turned on such that the constant current flows into the second power source to recharge the second power source while it is located in the device;
• and
• means for indicating a status of the system to a user.