How is Your Battery?

Many of the devices and tools we purchase and use today are powered by batteries — from cell phones to computer tablets, cameras and remote controls to even most car keys. You name it, if it’s a small electronic device, it’s most likely powered by some type of battery. Some of these devices draw very little current (or power) from a battery while others draw considerably more. For example, it’s very common for a battery to work in a smoke detector or garage door remote for years. On the other hand, many hardware tools wear out batteries relatively quickly.

At Zircon’s customer service desk, most of the support calls we receive are StudSensor stud finder operational issues due to low batteries. Many StudSensor owners leave the battery in their tool when they’re stored away. Unfortunately, most nine volt alkaline batteries (as well as other types) do not hold their charge well when stored for long periods of time, even when stored in the original packaging.

The StudSensor™ e50 uses one 9-Volt battery. It quickly and easily locates the edges of wood and metal studs and joists behind walls, floors, and ceilings.

The StudSensor™ e50 uses one 9-Volt battery. It quickly and easily locates the edges of wood and metal studs and joists behind walls, floors, and ceilings.

Since a Zircon stud finder draws a good deal of current from the battery power source, a robust fully charged nine volt battery (alkaline type) is essential for the tool’s operation. For example, when a battery is too weak to operate in a StudSensor, the tool will usually begin to flash and beep intermittently shortly after it’s powered on. Sometimes, the tool will look like it has calibrated (powered up) normally, but will not react to any density changes (find studs). On models with a LCD display screen, the screen may go blank after a few seconds. Many users think that these symptoms indicate a hardware failure, but that’s usually not the case.

That’s why using a brand new recently purchased battery with an extended expiration date is best. No matter what type of battery you need, remember to buy it from a large hardware, drug or grocery store. These big stores sell through large quantities of batteries. They don’t sit on the shelves for long, so you have a better chance of buying a strong fresh battery.

A good rule of thumb is: Always use a fresh new battery in your electronic tools. If you’re not going to use it for awhile, always store the tool without the battery installed. With a fully charged new battery installed in your Zircon StudSensor, or any other electronic tool, you’ll get peak performance and your best chance for a successful outcome to your project.

For additional insights, visit our sister blog sites, such as Zircon’s MarketingToolBox. Our blog, Green is the New Black provides useful tips of how manufacturers are producing products for a new tomorrow. Please also follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook.

Tom is a user experience expert and Customer Service Manager at Zircon. He provides personalized training, education and service to high tech and hardware tool customers worldwide. All with a smile, to boot!