1800mAh MUGEN EXTENDED BATTERY FOR DELL AXIM X50/X50v/X51/X51v HANDHELDS

By Gigi Hsueh (Gigi)
Moderator

Developer/Vendor: Battery provided by Lion Battery
Price: US$48.95
Rating (out of 5):

One of the most common complaints around the Axim X50/X51 series is the inadequate capacity of the stock battery. (Note, however, that although both the X50 and X51 series use identical capacity batteries, battery life for the X51 series is improved under Windows Mobile 5.) Fortunately, a number of extended battery options exist for users who do not have easy access to an external power source. Mugen Power is a company that has gained an excellent reputation in the development of extended batteries for a variety of portable devices. Let's see how they have done with their 1800 mAh battery for the X50/X51 series.

Package Contents

One Mugen 1800 MAh extended lithium battery for Dell Axim X50/X51 series
One battery door
Instruction card

Testing Environment

Dell Axim X50v
BatteryTimer (battery timer utility courtesy of silentknight)

Evaluation

The battery came in a re-sealable plastic package, which is handy for storage. I was very pleased to find that although the battery was just over two millimeters thicker than the stock battery, I had no problems fitting it into my Sena and Javoskin case without noticeable stretching at the corners. Unfortunately, I could not test the battery with a hard case as I do not own one; however, I would suspect that some modding of the case interior (i.e., the neoprene lining) may be required for it to fit. For those who prefer holding their Axims in their hands without a case, they should be pleased to know that the protrusion from the battery did not cause any discomfort or awkwardness.

Figures 1, 2: Packaging; battery and battery door

Figures 2, 3: Comparing the size of the standard Dell 1100mAh battery with the Mugen 1800mAh, installed and on its own

In order to test the battery in its optimal state, I went through three complete charging-discharging cycles before subjecting it to performance tests. The battery discharged and charged as expected while installed in the Axim and in the charger at the back of the cradle. In the cradle, charging took about 2 hours 45 minutes. Using silentknight's BatteryTimer, I ran both the Dell standard 1100mAh battery and the Mugen 1800mAh extended battery through identical audio, video and wifi tests. The results of each test are displayed in the table (Figure 5) below. As you can see, the results are as expected.

Figure 5: Test results. Note that all test were performed with the processor on "Auto".

Closing Words

Mugen has done another fine job at producing an aftermarket battery alternative. Their 1800mAh extended battery for the Axim X50/X51 series provides the expected increase in capacity in a still relatively compact size, making it a terrific option for those with moderate power needs who don't wish to purchase a separate case made for extended batteries.

Thanks to Lion Battery for generously providing Aximsite a review sample.

Pros:

• Works as expected
• Fits in regular soft cases

Cons:

• 6 month warranty