Macworld goes myth busting with iPad heat, battery issues
March 27th 2012
Two relatively non-issues with the new iPad has earned some traction on the intertubes. The issues are probably a curiosity at best, which involve the new iPad getting a bit warmer than the iPad 2 and some observations of the iPad charging.
On the heat issue, last week Consumer Reports ran some tests and found the new iPad to be 13-degrees warmer than the original during strenuous use. 16 degrees if plugged in and charging at the same time. I tried doing the similar tests and barely broke 100-degrees, but either way, the new iPad does seem warmer. It's good that Consumer Reports runs tests. It's a trending topic and they have the facilities, equipment, and experience to run these types of tests. Where Consumer Reports failed, however, is providing context for that data. Some relevant context from Macworld:
Much more detail at Macworld.
The second issue is overcharging your iPad battery. This one is truly strange, especially considering all the rechargeable devices out there. Essentially, a report singled out Apple's new iPad and claimed serious problems with the battery charging beyond 100%. The report also made incorrect claims by Apple that users shouldn't let their device charge overnight. As it turns out, all too is well. Rechargeable devices have sophisticated logic to safeguard and maximize lithium polymer batteries. While the battery read 100%, it can still take a trickle charge which may exceed the vendor's stated specifications. This is a good thing.