Slashdot Mirror


Battery Development Off The Beaten Path

Roland Piquepaille writes "Let's face it. Our computing devices are going faster year after year. But our laptop batteries don't show the same performance improvement. They still work only for a few hours, just a little bit more than ten years ago. Several companies want to change this, according to this UPI report, 'Nanotechnology improving energy options.' For example, mPhase Technologies plans to introduce smart batteries based on millions of silicon nanotube electrodes. These nanobatteries, to be introduced before the end of 2005, will last longer than traditional ones and will be respectful of our environment. Meanwhile, Konarka Technologies wants to reduce the weight of batteries with its flexible solar-fueled nanobatteries. You'll find more details and pictures in this overview."

8 of 308 comments (clear)

  1. XXX Small :) by Killjoy_NL · · Score: 5, Funny

    Do you need nano-tweazers to replace your battery then ??

    --
    This is the sig that says NI (again)
  2. Why not nuclear batteries? by Brain+Stew · · Score: 5, Funny

    I have always wondered why nuclear batteries have not been used in more electronics. They last practically forever!

    --
    "Here's a spoiler: You're will die alone."-Triumph the Insult Comic Dog
  3. Come again? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    "These nanobatteries, to be introduced before the end of 2005, will last longer than traditional ones and will be respectful of our environment."

    What odd grammar. "Can you not see I am respectful of the environment?! Do not disrepect the spirits of your elders, buy Mr. Power Extra Subueteo Batteries now!"

  4. I only have a power cord... by gmletzkojr · · Score: 5, Funny

    ... you insensitive clod!

    --
    I for one welcome our new [insert main topic] overlords.
  5. Genetics is the key by nizo · · Score: 4, Funny

    If they could only make smaller hamsters, they could fit more in each battery. Thankfully we can plan on having nano-hamsters any day now thanks to the wonders of genetic engineering!

  6. Re:small problem by AndroidCat · · Score: 4, Funny

    It's the same thing with alternators with field coils rather than permanent magnets. You need a small current flow before they'll generate any power. (Always know what kind your car has before trying to push-start it with a dead battery .. for several miles.)

    --
    One line blog. I hear that they're called Twitters now.
  7. 'Nanotechnology improving energy options.' by the_skywise · · Score: 4, Funny

    Why do I have a vision of tiny little robots running on thousands of little treadmills...

    Oh wait, that's a perpetual motion machine...

  8. Re:Because consumers can't handle them. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    In 1985 you might be able to get plutonium from your local corner store, but here in 2004 it's a little harder to come by!