Battery fully charged but cell voltage 4: 0mv. What is the issue here?

[hassansheikh]

Hello, My laptop is new, about a month old. I was facing battery issues (low battery life and heating while charging) and while using the battery checker I discovered that on full charge one of my battery cell has zero voltage.

What is the reason for this? I read somewhere that the battery needs to be replaced, will my warranty cover it?

My laptop has also been suffering for severe heating issues, can this be the reason for it as well?

[Dragon-Fur]

@hassansheikh 

No, the reason for any overheating is not to do with the fourth cell voltage - cell is not used in this model.

This model supports the 3 cell battery

Description:  3-cell, 41-WHr, 3.6-AHr, Li-ion battery    Part Number 920070-85

Reference:  Maintenance and Service Guide  Page 35

The check algorithm is written to support a number of different batteries.

Six cell batteries, checking sets of two cells powered in parallel, might also test an "empty" cell reading.

If the battery is passing the battery check and the component test, too, it is likely the battery is fine.

Below find the general information that I usually post about the notebook battery.  Read anything of interest.  If afterwards you still have concerns, the notebook is under warranty - contact HP Technical Support.

In general, a reminder:

All computers, even those purchased "custom to order" may benefit from having both Windows Updates and the HP Software and Drivers updated. 

Reminder - Do not use the HP Support Assistant to update the BIOS

How to install BIOS Updates:

HP Notebook PCs - Updating the BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

HP Desktop PCs - Updating the BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

Open HPSA Software

Settings > Set to “Notify” as opposed to “Auto-Update”

Save Changes > Restart the computer and log in

Open HPSA

Check for Updates > Use the list to determine candidates for update

If BIOS is offered, set to “ignore” or otherwise remove from list

Install other updates using HPSA or manually install

Opinion:

IF (emphasis on "if") the BIOS is updated and the concern about overheating remains, then this was not the source of the problem.

If the system is being pushed to capacity, it will run hot.  To the extent that "nothing else is wrong", this is normal.  Notebooks are built (all  manufacturers) to exacting standards - the technology to balance top performance and cooling is not yet perfect.  For example, "Smaller notebooks", that is, notebooks not intended for certain tasks are easier to "push to running hot" than are large workstations that are built to take the abuse.

Things that are the Battery

Information / Tests

HP Community thread on the subject

Accepted Solution - Battery won't Charge or Battery won't Hold a Charge

Article that explains Smart Battery Technology  

Battery use and care, how batteries perform over time, and expected battery life

How to: Understanding Lithium-Ion and Smart Battery Technology

Battery does not charge when system is warm to hot

If the “not charging” issue is (only) apparent when the system is running hot (or near that point), the battery and charge system are likely overheated as well – the charge system will resume operation when the computer cools down.  Short Version:  An overheated battery / computer / charging-system will not charge the battery – this is normal behavior.

Battery seems “stuck” in a particular charge setting

The battery might be OK and just need calibration (balance / set).

The steps to check / calibrate / replace the battery are included in this document:

HP Notebook PCs - HP Battery Alert Appears Before Windows Starts

And / Or

Document includes information and link for testing the hardware using HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (UEFI) (preferred method) and / or using the HP Support Assistant to test the battery.

>>>  Testing and Calibrating the Battery (Windows 10)    <<<

Tips for extending / improving battery service

Microsoft - Battery saving tips

HP Notebook PCs - Improving Battery Performance (Windows)

Documents and Reference

This document is for HP notebook PCs that have a removable battery.

HP Notebook PCs - Battery Does Not Power Notebook or Hold a Charge

If the adapter fails it will not power the notebook.

HP Notebook PCs - Using and Testing the AC Power Adapter

Oddities and Contributions

• Fix (High) Contrast (on computer screen)

Contributed by Pantopia

Unplug charging cable, wait a few seconds, plug in cable.

Relevant Post

• Battery at 100% but shuts off when unplugged (results unconfirmed at this writing)

Contributed by Rcamp48

Test system: HP Elite Pad 900 G1

Setup:  Tablet connected to docking station

Symptoms:  Shows 100% charge in battery – computer shuts off as soon as unplugged

Test (Solution):  Press and hold Power button and Reset button at the same time

Relevant Post

Reminder - Do not use the HP Support Assistant to update the BIOS

How to install BIOS Updates:

HP Notebook PCs - Updating the BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

HP Desktop PCs - Updating the BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

Open HPSA Software

Settings > Set to “Notify” as opposed to “Auto-Update”

Save Changes > Restart the computer and log in

Open HPSA

Check for Updates > Use the list to determine candidates for update

If BIOS is offered, set to “ignore” or otherwise remove from list

Install other updates using HPSA or manually install

Run Component Tests

Contributed by  Wes_notebooks 

Testing for Hardware Failures

HP Document

HP PCs and Tablets - About UEFI and the Startup Menu

Recalls and Advisories

Be sure to check your computer’s Website Support for relevant advisories and bulletins

The battery might be on a Recall list - devices / components eligible for Recall replacement are not subject to warranty status.

Information

 HP Replacement programs and product recalls

 Battery Safety Mode

"Fat" Battery / Swollen Battery

HP EliteBook/ProBook/Zbook Workstations - Notebook PCs - Swelling or Deformation of Notebook Battery

Purchase Options

1. If you determine that you need to purchase a battery, AC adapter, or power cord for your computer, check for the part(s) in HP PartSurfer.

1. If / When you know the battery type / part number, you may check for the battery at the Parts Store
2. If the part is not available from HP, use your search engine to find – and purchase - the part in your region.

Find your Product

See:  HP Notebook PCs - How Do I Find My Model Number or Product Number?

OR

• Open Support Home
• Enter the full model name
• When the website opens, select category Product Information
• Look for the Specifications for your computer
• The Product number may be listed in the Specifications document

Find your computer Serial Number

See: HP PCs, Printers - Finding the Serial Number

Find your part number

The part number you seek may be in the Maintenance and Service Guide

• Open Support Home
• Enter the full model name
• When the website opens, select category User Guides
• Look for the Maintenance and Service guide for your computer
• The part numbers are listed in the component section (wording varies)

Check for parts at the PartSurfer Website

Open PartSurfer

• Select your Country
• Enter the device Product Number, Serial Number, or Part Number in the Quick Search box
• HINT: To see a system-specific list, replace the Product Number with your device Serial Number
• Items accompanied by a tiny box in the Add-to-Cart column are available for purchase

NOTE >> Parts marked as "n/a" are not available from HP.

Parts marked as available for purchase might be available from:  HP Parts Store

OR

If HP does not provide the part for retail purchase,

Use your search engine to find the part number at your favorite online store.

Warranty Period

If the computer / battery are within the Warranty Period, contact HP Technical Support.

“Everywhere” Contact Information - HP Technical Support

HP World-Wide Support

 Select your region and follow the prompts

Still need help?  Want more information?  Search for solutions...

Reference and Resources – Places to find (more) help and learn about your Device

Device Homepage

NOTE:  Content depends on device type

Drivers / Software and BIOS, How-to Videos, Bulletins/Notices, How-to Documents, Troubleshooting, Manuals, Product Information, more

 HP Pavilion 14-cd0000 x360 Convertible PC

User Guide

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We are a world community of HP enthusiasts dedicated to supporting HP technology.

Click Thumbs Up on a post to say Thank You!

Answered? Click post "Accept as Solution" to help others find it.

[hassansheikh]

Alright, but I also have another concern. I just ran the command 'powercfg /batteryreport' and got the report. I notice a regular drop in the battery capacity.

What is the reason for this?

[Dragon-Fur]

@hassansheikh 

I don't know - it is not the "fourth" cell issue, for sure.

It could be heat - you say the computer is running hot.  You know the battery will not charge when the computer is already running warm to hot.  (It would make no sense to add heat to an already warm computer.)

and / or

I would guess that something is perhaps draining the battery - hibernation, using Fast Start as opposed to letting the computer fully shut down, obscure power requirements that are causing the battery charge to be utilized, weak charger, hot environment (computers do not do as well when the ambient temperature is higher than the recommended specifications).

It is a little battery - it may not have the capacity to remain unaffected when it is used.  For example, recharging cycles impact how the battery responds over time.  Is a month enough time to have made a difference?   I would say not - but I don't have any tech that runs on a three cell battery.

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We are a world community of HP enthusiasts dedicated to supporting HP technology.

Click Thumbs Up on a post to say Thank You!

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[hassansheikh]

Well, I have already reinstalled windows 3 times, even tried Ubuntu. But the battery life remains pathetic.

[Dragon-Fur]

@hassansheikh 

Pathetic might not be a defect.  It is obviously not ideal.

Nonetheless, because the situation concerns you, please do contact Support and ask about options.

There may be something that can be done.

HP Technical Support - HP Contact Information

Reminders

• Use the serial number of the device to submit the case (do not post that information on the Community).

• Chat is not available in every region. In those areas where Chat is an option, Chat service hours are likely restricted.  In the event that Chat is not available in your region:  Call the number provided in the HP directory, else submit your case online (to receive phone contact information)

• HP will advise you there is a fee for phone support and / or other services when your computer / device is no longer under warranty.  This is normal business practice.

• HP may tell you that certain services are not covered under warranty.  This is normal business practice.  Standard Warranty typically covers specific hardware issues as explained in the Warranty contract. Care Pack coverage and warranties differ by package.

• If the HP Contact (phone) number is not immediately provided:  Contact information is displayed on your screen after you submit your case online.  

• HP websites are the only ones allowed to use the HP copyright circle/logo.  Look for the copyright on any website claiming to be HP. If in doubt, scroll to the bottom of the Website to find HP copyright logo.

“Everywhere” Contact Information - HP Technical Support

HP World-Wide Support

 Select your region and follow the prompts

Option:  Contact HP Technical Support - Regions

USA / Canada

Submit information / case online: Contact HP Support – Assistance Portal

1. Sign in or continue as a guest

UK

1. For faster support, submit information / case online HP Customer Support UK
2. Contact Phone: Contact HP UK – Phone Assist

Option - HP Support is on Facebook!

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From HP > CAUTION

Recently, HP has seen an increased number of third-party support websites selling HP driver downloads or diagnostic tools. Many of these websites use the HP trademark symbol and claim to be official HP distributors.

If your product supports your operating system, HP offers your driver and software at no additional cost through the HP website.

Use caution when dealing with any website that asks you to pay for HP driver downloads or tools that claim to diagnose your HP products. These websites might not be affiliated with HP in any way.

Do not install BIOS updates from a motherboard manufacturer's website. Only install BIOS updates from HP. Installing BIOS updates from the motherboard manufacturer can prevent the computer from accepting an HP system recovery. This could result in a loss of data.

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[mills007]

had the same issue when running hp battery test also noticed the age of battery mine 236 days old and my laptop was 2 days old.got no answers from argos so sent it back for full refund