How to Extend the Battery Life of Rugged Devices

Extending the battery life of rugged devices may seem confusing, but it’s definitely achievable with a few clever tricks. In some cases it can actually be straightforward. Here are the key general battery saving tips you can use to make your device last much longer.

1. Being screen savvy

Your screen is a major power hog, so turning down the brightness, even a little, can make a big difference. Depending on your device, you can reduce the colour vibrancy and screen refresh rate, which can contribute to a longer battery life. 

In addition, you can set your screen to turn off quickly when you’re not using it. Every second counts! Also, if your device has it, switch to dark mode. It uses less power, especially on OLED screens (and is a little less intense on the eyes!)

2. Power-saving prowess

Most rugged devices have a power-saving mode, turn it on when you need to stretch your battery life. It is usually found within the device’s general settings. It can be activated whenever you choose. 

If you are using multiple apps, make sure you close apps you’re not using. They might be secretly draining your battery in the background. When you don’t need to be connected, switch to airplane mode. It’s like a mini-vacation for your battery. However, if your rugged device is needed for instant communication, it’s a good idea to leave airplane mode alone.  

3. Be aware of connections

Connecting your device to Wi-Fi, or with bluetooth, or connecting to other devices will drain battery. So you should.turn off Wi-Fi when you’re not using it. Only use Bluetooth when you need it. Those wireless connections can be sneakily take your battery life.

In addition to this, limit location services to only when necessary. Your device doesn’t need to know your every move.

4. Stay in charge

Try not to always charge your device to 100%. Partial charges can be kinder to your battery in the long run. Some devices have settings that automatically stop charging after a certain percentage below 100. 

Although it sometimes can’t be helped with the environments a rugged device can be exposed to, keep your device at a comfortable temperature. Extreme heat or cold can affect battery life.   

As a side note, always use the charger that came with your device as it’s specifically designed to work best with your battery.

5. Solutions in software

Keep your device’s software up to date. Some updates often include battery-saving improvements. Modern devices can show diagnostics, one of which is checking which apps are using the most battery. You might be surprised!

Bonus Tips

• Turn off vibration if you don’t need it. It uses more power than you might think.
• Limit the number of notifications you receive. Each one wakes up your device and uses the battery.
• Store your device in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
• In terms of device storage, try to make sure your device is not at full capacity in terms of memory. Free up some space!

Can I use a powerbank with my rugged device?

You absolutely can use a power bank with your rugged device. In fact, it’s a brilliant way to boost its battery life and keep it going even longer, and can be extremely helpful in unexpected situations.

Rugged devices are built for long days and tough tasks, but even their beefy batteries can run low eventually. A power bank provides that extra bit of power when you can’t reach a wall socket. 

Whether you’re hiking in the hills, working on a remote site, or exploring the wilderness, a power bank lets you top up your device’s battery without needing a mains power source. In situations where staying connected is crucial, like emergencies or remote work, a power bank ensures your rugged device has the power it needs to keep you in touch. 

With a power bank, you can minimise the time spent tethered to a charger, allowing you to focus on the task at hand, you can stay on the go whilst charging the device.

Things to consider when choosing a power bank for your rugged device 

Opt for a power bank with a high enough capacity to provide a meaningful charge to your device. The higher the capacity (measured in mAh), the more charge it can deliver. 

Look for a power bank that’s as rugged as your device! Choose one with a tough exterior, ideally with some level of water and dust resistance. Make sure the power bank has compatible output ports and voltage to charge your device efficiently. 

Check your device’s charging requirements to ensure compatibility. Consider the size and weight of the power bank, especially if you’ll be carrying it around all day. Balance capacity with portability to find the best fit for your needs. For added peace of mind, the Panasonic ProTect PLUS warranty offers 3 years of battery confidence for just £35, proactively replacing underperforming batteries free of charge.

Buy long-lasting rugged devices today