Changing The Nuvi 3xx Battery - A Step By Step Guide

[moeyhc]

The battery change for my Nuvi 300 has been a great experience ranging from fun to despair. This is definitely not a project for armature DIYers. Disassembling the unit takes some figuring out and thanks to bro gpssin/jaguar it was done without any incidence. Than finding an equivalent battery that fits the size and power rating prove the most challenging. In the end I settle for a Nokia BL-5C hand phone battery that fit nicely but with a lower power rating. Nonetheless, it still gives a decent 2.5 hours of operation when fully charged.

After much testing on the BL-5C battery I conclude that it is safe to use inside a GPS. The charge and discharge rate is also within the battery capabilities. The best option is to use the original or recommended batteries. Only attempt to do what I did if all other options are not available.

Here is the photo shoot of the battery for my Nuvi 300.

The custom made battery contacts for the BL-5C battery. Soldering directly onto the battery terminals is not recommended. The molded insulator will melt.

Bat_Probe.JPG

The battery all hooked up and ready for installation into the GPS.

Bat_UnitAssy.JPG

Finally the battery installed.

Bat_Assembled.JPG

Once again a Big Thank You to All who has help on this challenging project.... cheers... . It's DONE!...

[FauSham]

In the end I settle for a Nokia BL-5C hand phone battery that fit nicely but with a lower power rating. Nonetheless, it still gives a decent 2.5 hours of operation when fully charged.

After much testing on the BL-5C battery I conclude that it is safe to use inside a GPS. The charge and discharge rate is also within the battery capabilities. The best option is to use the original or recommended batteries. Only attempt to do what I did if all other options are not available.

Moey, it's OK ke if we charge using Garmin charger?
May Xplode or not?
or we must use NOKIA charger?

[coolerbok]

thanks to bro gpssin/jaguar it was done without any incidence.

Jaguar opens up his toys ??? Wow! *Respect* *Respect*
Well done, moeyhc. Wish I had the guts to try this on my 360.

Cheers!

[moeyhc]

One good thing about these Li-Ion Polymer batteries is the built-in power monitoring circuit. They control all the charging and discharging of the battery. So, it doesn't make a difference if you charge it using a PC USB, Original Charger, Car Charger or any thing mini USB they are all controlled by the battery power supervisor circuit. I have put it through some very drastic tests before concluding that it is safe to use. If you are using a Nokia battery make sure you buy a good brand. There are some that does not meet spec.

Bro Jag did not tear up his Nuvi..... bro gpssin did it... Feeling better now or disappointed?... You can do it too. It's FUN... ... Cheers!

p/s :- just remember we have a Junkyard Store in MfM...

[gpssin]

Hi bro Moeyhc,

I should say you are very very "Innovative" Well done

[silverbeauty]

Hi bro Moeyhc,

I should say you are very very "Innovative" Well done

His title should be changed from VC to "Chief Innovator"

[moeyhc]

.... this is a poor man solution to a real life problem. Getting innovative is easy but getting it safe is a big challenge. Sure glad that it's over and I can enjoy my hobby again. The good news is the BL-5C battery is also used in my Holux M1000B Bluetooth GPS receiver and my Nokia 6630.... cheers!

[netken]

bro moey introduce me to this thread.

now my Nuvi 600 can only withstand less than 5 mins in full charge ....

but the DIY seems pretty risky for me cause i am not a really DIY person ...

anyone can help me change or is there a place that can provide these services kah .... i am so worried if i attempt to open up the GPS i would break something or short circuit it in the end -

[moeyhc]

If you are in Singapore PM bro gpssin. He does it for many members here. For other area you can still buy the battery from Bro gpssin and get someone competent to do it for you... cheers!

[elx]

is nuvi 500/ 550 battery same size with 7xx and 8xx nuvis ?