Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Lithium Polymer FJ Batteries.Updated 24 days ago

Usage

The batteries for the FJ system are capable of several hundred full power flashes from a single charge. There are however a few things that can influence the total number of flashes.

• Set the screen to level "1" (2 is the default) in the settings menu
• Minimize use of the zoom feature
• Do not overheat the unit
• Power off the flash when not in use for an extended time. 
• Minimize the use of the modeling lamp 
• Use the flashes within normal sync speeds. HSS requires multiple rapid flashes at higher power levels and adds heat, both deplete battery life at a faster pace.
• Use Manual power settings.  TTL adds a pre-flash which has a minimal effect on battery life.  

Charging

FJ system Lithium Polymer Batteries are rated for a lifespan of 300+ charge cycles. You can help maximize and increase that life by charging an FJ battery before it is empty.

• Avoid Full Depletion: Lithium Polymers do not have a memory effect, so you should never fully deplete them as with Ni-Cad batteries. Westcott's FJ system has built-in protection to prevent total discharge when in use. If stored long-term after significant use and discharge, the remaining protective charge can dissipate, damaging the battery's ability to recharge.
• Recharge Before 75% Depletion: Recharging the FJ battery before it is 75% depleted can prolong its life.
• Optimal Charging Temperature: Avoid charging when the battery is below 10ºC/50ºF, as the chemistry in the battery is less efficient at lower temperatures.
• Avoid Overheating: Hot Lithium Polymer batteries don’t take a charge well. Continued overheating of your FJ units will reduce the battery's life and functionality (frames per charge). Allow the batteries to cool after use before charging. If your FJ unit nears or reaches OH (overheating) status, allow additional cooling time. For the FJ400, you can use the AC power adapter to help cool the battery several minutes before powering off the unit for the remainder of the charge.

Storage

• Avoid Long-term Full Charge: Lithium Polymer batteries should not be stored long-term with a full charge, as the chemistry can cause them to expand and may render them unusable.
• Optimal Storage Level: Longer-term storage levels between 50% and 75% are suggested. Lithium Polymer batteries lose less than 1% of their charge each month when stored, so there is little chance they will discharge too far unless stored for a very long time at the lowest levels.  

Caution

• Avoid Significant Discharges: Continual significant discharges will affect the battery's lifespan. Regularly maintaining charge levels above 25% will enhance the battery's lifespan.
• Follow Charging Directions: Follow the directions for charging that come with your FJ product manual.
• Don't Attempt Additional Flashes: When your FJ strobe shuts down due to an exhausted battery, do not turn it off and back on to gain a few more flashes. This can deplete the battery's safety reserve charge and permanently damage the battery. If you need the strobe to provide near its maximum range of flashes regularly, consider purchasing a second backup battery.