CMS 50F question

[yankees123]

I have a cms 50F oximeter.  I don't use it all the time, my question is do I charge the unit when I am not using it?  When I use it it usually says low battery.  Am I reducing the life of the oximeter battery if I leave it in low battery and charge it only when I use it?
Thnks for your replies.

[Crimson Nape]

Some batteries, like lithium-ion, have a voltage floor that will prevent them from charging if you allow them to drop below this value. Ni cad batteries will develop a memory if you charge them too often, thus shortening their run time. I would charge the device after each use, or every month if you haven't used it within this time frame.

Now, the trick is to determine which type of battery your device is using. . .
- Red

[yankees123]

Thanks Crimson for your quick response.  Maybe someone else knows what type of battery it has, but your idea makes sound sense.

[Jeff8356]

I just looked at the specs for mine (older CMS50F) and it just says "Rechargeable Lithium battery".

[yankees123]

So Jeff, what do you recommend?

[Jeff8356]

How much time goes by between use? I would suggest trying an experiment. Charge it up then let it sit, unused, for a week and see what level the battery is at.

Mine is ~ 3 years old and I can just get two night's of use out of it now. The battery has gone dead a few times over the years (forgetfulness on my part) but I have always been able to charge it again. YMMV

[yankees123]

Jeff, I will try leaving for a week and see what it shows. I sometimes go several weeks before charging, then I have to reset the clock and date.