Method and apparatus for identifying and charging different types of batteries

Abstract

A method for charging a rechargeable battery pack includes identifying battery capacity, determining sampling interval length according to the battery capacity, and implementing the determined sampling interval length. Also disclosed herein is a method for charging batteries comprising identifying battery capacity, determining current-on period length in duty cycle according to the battery capacity, and implementing the determined current-on period length. Further, disclosed herein is a battery charging apparatus comprising a charger for charging first and second batteries, where the first battery comprises a microprocessor. The charger further comprises at least one terminal for receiving a battery identification signal, so that the charger can distinguish between the first and second batteries. Also disclosed herein is a battery/charger combination comprising a battery comprising first, second and third terminals, at least one cell disposed between the first and second terminals and a microprocessor disposed within the battery between the first and third terminals, a charger connected to the battery via the first, second and third terminals, wherein the microprocessor controls charging of the battery by sending instructions to the charger.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.