Technology talk: The cool way to make batteries last longer

Nokia Siemens Networks - SiteStar is an innovative cooling cabinet that can triple battery life and cut the electricity consumed for cooling base station batteries by up to 95 percent.

SiteStar is ideal for extreme climates, particularly in emerging markets, where scarce power supplies make battery back-up essential.

With SiteStar, operators can reduce operational costs for battery replacements, site visits, electricity and diesel, as well as achieve lower CO2 emissions.

Battery life is inversely proportional to ambient temperature, with just a 10°C increase, halving battery life. Conventionally, significant capital and operating expenditure is needed to ensure that batteries remain cool, or to replace them often.

However, SiteStar provides better resistance against external thermal conditions, maintaining a constant optimal battery temperature in very hot or cold climates. Battery life is increased by three times in operating temperatures of 35°C, compared to a fan-based cabinet. SiteStar typically consumes only 40W, reducing electricity consumption for cooling batteries by up to 95 percent compared to traditional air-conditioned cabinets.

SiteStar’s operating range is from -40°C to +50°C.