t400 battery error (FRU 42T4644)

yesterday my t400 suddenly died while surfing the web on battery. plunged AC in and it started up. seems like a battery problem, but i'd like to consult with you guys before i run out buy a new battery. this is what it is like now.

power manager says "a battery error has occurred. the battery cannot be charged. replace the battery."

battery light blinks twice every second.
battery details:
status no activity
remaining battery 47%
remaining time -
remaining capacity 29.83 wh
full charge capacity 64.40 wh
current 0.00a
voltage 11.60v
wattage -
temperature 27c
cycle count 52
manufacturer name sanyo
manufacture date 2009-12-14
first used date 2010-12
serial number 21249
bar-code 1zgf49cege9
fru part number 42y4644
device chemistry li-ion
design capacity 84.24 wh
design voltage 10.80v

 

Looks like the Sanyo curse had struck, they're notorious for dying suddenly. I have a 6 cell Sanyo battery for my T61 and it dies around 51%, I have a spare one but I don't have much hope for it since its the same make. If you're looking for an OEM replacement battery then I would look at the 9 cell Panasonics as they hold capacity much better in the long term than Sanyo's and is generally more reliable. I think the part number for it is 42T4532 on the T400.

 

great info, thanx!

i'm still new to thinkpad. i'd like to know where do you guys purchase battery and stuffs for thinkpad at reasonable price. do lenovo parts ever goes on sale?

 

I first look on ebay for "genuine" Lenovo parts. There are often good deal there particularly for older stock. My bay battery (previous generation) was nearly 3 years old when I bought it but seems to be in very good health.

John