Microsoft tech would allow batteries in any direction

updated 02:30 pm EDT, Thu July 1, 2010

 

Microsoft now licensing InstaLoad battery tech


Microsoft has developed technology which allows installing disposable cells without concern for positive or negative polarity. Called InstaLoad, the battery installation technology uses new contacts that can take a charge regardless of the battery's orientation. Microsoft sees ideal applications of InstaLoad in devices that require frequent battery changes, use several batteries or are used in harsh environments.

Microsoft's solution is entirely mechanical, so there is no added power draw or required costly hardware. The technology simply replaces existing battery contacts and can be fairly easily designed into the existing battery compartments of devices. Compatible battery sizes include CR123, AA, AAA, C or D size batteries, whether disposable or rechargeable.

The technique is patented, and Duracell and AE Light are in line to license the technology and use it in their own products.


By Electronista Staff

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industry, gadgets, Microsoft, Duracell, InstaLoad, AE Light
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Previous Comments

  1. jameshays

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: Mar 2003

    -2

    $$$

    How much RnD did this cost? Does it really add much value to anybody's life that's older than about 4 years old?


  1. Flying Meat

    Junior Member

    Joined: Jan 2007

    +3

    Re: $$$

    I originally though of this as a solution looking for a problem, but then recognizing my farsightedness, I determined this would be helpful for the blind, dislexic, and us farsighted folk that don't always want to run to find our specs.

    I agree, it's not exactly world changing, but it is useful...

    I have no idea how much they spent on it, but I doubt it will be as useless as a Kin. ;)


  1. WiseWeasel

    Junior Member

    Joined: Apr 1999

    0

    Surprising

    It's surprising that MS would be investing in disposable batteries at this point, since the market seems to be headed towards built-in rechargeable power cells. This would be quite applicable for their mice, however.


  1. malax

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: Aug 2006

    +3

    Cool

    The surprising thing is that it's taken this long for someone to solve this problem. Kids toys, radios, flashlights and cameras are examples of products requiring multiple AA batteries that would be more user friendly if one didn't have to worry about how to align them.


  1. revco

    Fresh-Faced Recruit

    Joined: May 2005

    +1

    30 years later

    and they finally come up with an original idea.


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