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    HP DV7T Battery Options

    Discussion in 'HP' started by [DT], Mar 11, 2010.

  1. [DT]

    [DT] Notebook Consultant

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    I originally posted this in the Lounge (under the DV7 thread), but there wasn't a ton of traffic, so I figured I'd post it here as well (since I need to do something ASAP).

    Howdy Folks!

    I haven't been here in quite a while. Still churning along with the HP7T I bought back ~17 months ago. Here's my original order post FWIW:

    http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?p=3832234#post3832234

    Still running reasonably solid (and still on Vista!) I have definitely got my money's worth out of it like 1000X over :).

    Only a couple of issues - first, my charger went TU about 3 days before the 12 month warranty expired. I ran out and quickly snagged a Kensington replacement: pretty nice slimline that has multiple adapters, it's actually been handy as an upstairs 2nd charger. HP for the record, also sent me a brand new OEM replacement without too much hassle, just using on online service chat :)

    OK, the matter I'm posting about: my battery has finally gotten wrecked to the point where it's good for about 15-18 minutes on performance, maybe 22-24 on low power settings.

    I'd like to be semi-portable again :D so I'm weighing these options:

    Another "stock spec" 8 cell, which I believe it a G08

    I see HP offers (through various sellers) a "green" replacement, model G04. I don't think it has longer life, but it's supposed to be warranted for 3 years, plus offer a guarantee of much less charge loss (I think it's something like 95% availability the first year) and replaced pro-rated based on use. Sounds like a better option - the only thing I find peculiar is it's indicated as a 4-cell, with "8-cell" equivalent. I don't really case as long as it works!

    My 3rd option is to go aftermarket with a 12-cell battery. The extra weight size isn't that big of a deal, and I even like the idea if the rear being elevated (in my office, I usually keep it hanging off the corner of the desk for better ventilation).

    My problem with option 3 is it seems to be a crapshoot with the battery quality (if anyone has some specific experience for a good source, I'd love to hear it).

    [edit]

    I did change cars though, hahaha, just noticed the avatar (I'll update that later :D)
     
  2. [DT]

    [DT] Notebook Consultant

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    Bump for *any* input. Probably just going with a direct OEM replacement (G08), but figured I'd give this one more shot.
     
  3. [DT]

    [DT] Notebook Consultant

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    I wound up going with the HP G04 "Green" battery. Mostly because of the claim it will sustain more charge over it's life cycle (which is covered by a three year warranty). Used NewEgg, one of my preferred computer sources.

    It's charging now, I'll report back the performance (anything will be an improvement over my original battery's <15 minutes :D)
     
  4. JoeCHecht

    JoeCHecht Notebook Consultant

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    I have a DV7 Quad core that is totally maxed out (I love it). When it comes to batteries , I need a lot of um. I also have a small fleet of DV9500T's I have to keep powered up on the go.

    I used to spend big bucks for new ones form HP. I have changed my opinions.

    I still cannot believe that I have been buying bunches of "almost new" used ones on EBay for next to nothing (with free shipping), and have had excellent experiences with battery life (both per charge and number of cycles). The cost to payback ratio has been amazing.

    It also feels very "green" to be re-using what someone might have thrown out.

    I also buy what is claimed to be new OEM bats from China (also with free shipping) with very good results.

    I buy a lot of "OEM" parts from China (especially replacement keyboards), and have been very impressed. The quality of all the good seems to be the same as OEM, often, there are OEM stickers and markings, and the price is a small fraction of the HP price. Shipping takes about 10 days to 2 weeks to here in BFE Florida.

    Aftermarket power supplies are another matter. Be careful is the rule. On the other hand, after some shopping, I have found replacement bricks that are even better than OEM for a small fraction of the price (cheap enough that I was able to put spares in just about every room of the home office :)

    J
     
  5. timtravel42

    timtravel42 Notebook Virtuoso

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    @OP I guess you've already purchased so for future reference I would recommend not purchasing aftermarket batteries - especially with the recent incidents with fire/explosions