What is Lithium Wake Up Mode?
Lithium batteries are equipped with a BMS to prevent overcharging and deep discharges. When a battery’s voltage falls below a certain level, the BMS disconnects it to protect the internal cells, effectively putting the battery into sleep mode. A regular charger may not detect the battery in this state, leaving you thinking it’s 'dead' when, in fact, it’s just dormant.
Lithium Wake Up Mode is a specialised charging feature that reactivates a lithium battery by applying a gentle current to bring its voltage back up to a safe level. Once the voltage is restored, the charger transitions into a normal charging cycle, allowing the battery to recharge fully.
How Lithium Wake Up Mode Works
When a lithium battery is deeply discharged, the BMS disconnects it from the load to prevent further discharge. This can happen if you accidentally leave appliances running or store the battery for long periods without charging it. In such cases, a regular charger may not detect the battery because its voltage is too low.
Lithium Wake Up Mode is designed to bypass this issue. The charger applies a low current to the battery, gradually increasing the voltage to a level where the BMS reactivates. Once the BMS has switched back on, the battery is ready to receive a full charge.
Why Lithium Wake Up Mode is Important
- Revives Deeply Discharged Batteries: Without Lithium Wake Up Mode, a deeply discharged lithium battery may seem unresponsive, leading you to believe it’s permanently dead. This mode helps recover the battery, restoring it to working order.
- Prevents Battery Damage: Trying to charge a deeply discharged lithium battery with a regular charger can cause further damage or even result in battery failure. Lithium Wake Up Mode safely restores the voltage without risking damage to the internal cells.
- Maximises Battery Lifespan: Lithium Wake Up Mode helps extend the life of your lithium battery by protecting it from deep discharge conditions and safely bringing it back to full charge.
When to Use Lithium Wake Up Mode
You should use Lithium Wake Up Mode when:
- Your lithium battery has been deeply discharged and a regular charger isn’t able to detect it.
- The battery’s BMS has put the battery into sleep mode after prolonged discharge.
By using Lithium Wake Up Mode, you can safely reactivate the battery and bring it back to full capacity.
Tips for Maintaining Lithium Batteries
To avoid the need for Lithium Wake Up Mode, it’s important to maintain your lithium battery properly:
- Avoid deep discharges: Try not to let your lithium battery drop below its recommended minimum voltage. Use a battery monitor to keep an eye on charge levels.
- Charge regularly: Don’t let your lithium battery sit idle in a discharged state for long periods, as this can trigger the BMS to shut it down.
- Use the right charger: Always use a charger compatible with lithium batteries, ideally one that includes Lithium Wake Up Mode for added protection.
Final Thoughts
Lithium Wake Up Mode is a vital tool for reviving deeply discharged lithium batteries. By understanding how it works and using it when necessary, you can extend the life of your battery and ensure it continues to deliver reliable power for all your off-grid adventures. Maintaining your battery with proper charging practices can help you avoid the need for wake-up mode, but it’s a valuable safety net when you need it most.
