A smart battery workshop generally involves a computer program that resets the data contained within a smart battery. The program typically functions when used in conjunction with what is referred to as a standard 12C parallel port adaptor, which connects the battery to the computer through an electronic relay. Smart batteries generally contain electrically erasable, programmable, read only memory (EEPROM) chips, which contain battery data. When this data is not synchronized with the actual energy level of the battery, under- or overcharging might occur. The smart battery workshop corrects these settings.
Different versions of the smart battery workshop are readily available over the Internet. The website for each program generally specifies which devices are compatible with the particular smart battery workshop. The program does not usually require persons using the smart battery workshop to have an extensive knowledge of electronics or computer programming. Persons may purchase the appropriate parallel port adapter, download the program, and connect the battery to the computer through the adapter. Users with knowledge of basic electronic devices can construct the parallel port adapter, using inexpensive materials, in under an hour.
The battery is connected to the adapter, which is connected to the computer. The program is then initiated. By accessing the EEPROM reset window in the program, the user can choose the reset function, automatically resetting the internal codes of the battery. The program often contains windows displaying bit flags, serial bus data, and EEPROM read/write information.
In addition to containing negative and positive terminals, the smart battery usually has a data terminal containing the battery’s temperature and charge level. The terminal also contains the clock that monitors the time elapsed on a current charge. The clock setting is generally synchronized with the amount of stored energy within the battery. When a smart battery fully discharges, this internal clock usually resets itself. Clock and capacity level misalignment may occur when a battery discharges during storage or when basic functions operate in opposition to a compilation of programs that are operating simultaneously, which requires more energy.
Smart battery workshops reset this clock so that it corresponds with the actual battery charge. Smart battery chargers, also referred to as smart battery backups, charge batteries by measuring the battery’s voltage, internal clock, or temperature. If the charger uses an incorrectly programmed clock in determining the amount of charge applied, the battery generally becomes under- or overcharged.