The memory effect in Ni-Cd batteries refers to the phenomenon where a battery appears to lose capacity when repeatedly charged after being only partially discharged. Although widely cited, the memory effect is often misunderstood.
Scientifically, what is often labeled as memory effect is usually voltage depression—a temporary drop in voltage under load. True memory effect was observed in early satellite applications, where precise charging patterns were followed.
In real-world scenarios, memory effect is rare but possible. It can be mitigated by occasionally performing deep discharges and using smart chargers that adjust the charging current based on battery condition.
Understanding this phenomenon helps users maintain optimal battery performance and avoid premature replacements.
