New Technology Enables Next-Gen Portable Battery Operated IOT Devices

Commentary contributed by Anton Beck, Battery Product Manager, Epec Engineered Technologies

February 1, 2018 | The Internet of Things, or IoT, is a buzzword of sorts. However, it is one that describes devices, appliances, vehicles and other products that are network connected so that they can exchange data with one another or with a central communications device. Some common devices include smart thermostats, wearable step counters, and certain wireless home speaker systems. Each “thing” operates independently, such as a garage door opener which works to open and close the garage door–however, it also interoperates with the Internet infrastructure, such as by this same opening device allowing you to control the opening and closing from miles away instead of using the standard opener from the end of your driveway. According to IHS Markit, experts estimate that the Internet of Things will include around 30.7 billion objects by the year 2020. Read more about New Technology Enables Next-Gen Portable Battery Operated IOT Devices

Why Proper Cell Balancing is Necessary in Battery Packs

Contributed Commentary by Anton Beck, Battery Product Manager, Epec

When a lithium battery pack is designed using multiple cells in series, it is very important to design the electronic features to continually balance the cell voltages. This is not only for the performance of the battery pack, but also for optimal life cycles. Read more about Why Proper Cell Balancing is Necessary in Battery Packs

Futuristic Trends in Battery Charging Technology

By Edward McMahon, CEO
Epec Engineered Technologies

Every day more and more of the things we use on a day-to-day basis use batteries. The global market for batteries in 2014 is $83 Billion, and according to research from The Fredonia Group, it will grow at a CAGR of 7.8 percent through 2019 as devices continue to proliferate. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries make up the largest segment and market growth will be driven largely by hybrid and electric cars and batteries for electronic devices. Read more about Futuristic Trends in Battery Charging Technology

Designing and Managing Custom Battery Pack Plastic Enclosures

Anton Beck, Battery Product Manager • Epec Engineered Technologies

Customers are often unfamiliar with battery regulatory requirements which can lead to complications during the design of plastic enclosures. Understanding some of the design and management elements will help avoid production process complications. With any enclosure, the most important aspect is that the enclosure must be able to support the battery itself. It must also pass rigorous tests, especially when associated with transportation safety certifications. Read more about Designing and Managing Custom Battery Pack Plastic Enclosures