FAQ
TL;DR: "90 % of ‘dead’ laptop batteries revive after a proper EEPROM reset" [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060] “Adapter OK means you’re ready” [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060] Build a 74LS05 I²C dongle, backup the 24Cxx dump, hit Reset in SBWorkshop—runtime often jumps from 5 min to >1 h.
Why it matters: This FAQ helps makers, repair techs and recyclers safely reset smart-battery fuel-gauges instead of binning expensive packs.
Quick Facts
• Typical smart-battery EEPROM size: 24C02 = 256 bytes [Microchip DS21189].
• SBWorkshop ≤ v3.71 and Be2Works ≤ v2.85 still support LPT-based 74LS05 adapters [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
• DIY interface parts cost ≈ €4–€6 (IC + resistors + DB-25 plug) [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
• Safe cell-pair cutoff during discharge test: 3.0 V per pair [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
• Controller families covered: BQ2040, BQ2060/A, BQ2063, BQ30472, AS358D + S29394 [Elektroda, thread].
How do I identify the SM-Bus pins on my laptop battery connector?
Measure across all pins with a multimeter; the pair showing full pack voltage is +B and –B. The remaining two small-signal pins are usually SMBD and SMBC. Swap SDA/SCL wiring until SBWorkshop shows data instead of “Battery not found” [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
What’s the safest 3-step procedure to reset a BQ2060 + 24C02 pack?
- Unsolder cell leads, connect a 74LS05 I²C adapter to SDA, SCL, GND, +5 V on the 24C02.
- In SBWorkshop, click Save EEPROM, then Reset EEPROM.
- Re-solder cells, insert pack, fully charge, then run BatteryMon to verify smooth discharge [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
Can I use a CH341A USB programmer instead of the LPT interface?
Not recommended; field tests show 1–2 % data corruption when reading, which is too risky for programming fuel-gauge memories [Elektroda, ostrytomasz, post #21413226]
Is there a ready-made programmer with battery adapter?
Yes. TI’s EV2300/EV2400 or the older EV2200 boards connect directly to SM-Bus packs and are supported by EVSW/Battery Management Studio. Prices start around US $60 on the used market [TI docs].
Do I need external power when using an EV2200 board?
No. For simple data read/write the board takes power from the PC’s COM/USB port; connect only SMBD, SMBC and GND. Pack positive (16.8 V) stays isolated [Elektroda, Alex_8030, post #21609132]
Will a reset fix worn-out cells?
No. A reset only clears incorrect charge counters. If capacity under load stays below 50 % of design after reset, replace all cells in the series stack [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
What edge-case failures should I watch for?
Writing wrong hex values to charge/temperature limits can over-charge cells leading to venting or fire. Always keep a verified backup and cross-check edited bytes before flashing [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
How do I handle IBM T2x batteries with AS358D + S29394A memory?
Use the same 74LS05 adapter; connect CS to AS358D pin, VCC to pin 8 of S29394A, then select chip type S29394A in SBWorkshop and read/write as usual [Elektroda, jarob, post #9399266]
Why does SBWorkshop show “Adapter error”?
The DB-25 shell may short pins if metallic. Line it with cardboard and verify 10 kΩ pull-ups and 100 nF decoupler are soldered as per schematic. The status should flip to “Adapter OK” once fixed [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
Can I just swap the controller board into a new shell?
Moving the entire BMS board into another pack works if cell count and chemistry match, but mechanical fit and thermistor routing often fail. Re-celling and resetting is usually quicker and cheaper [Elektroda, zaradny2, post #19732157]
What statistic shows my reset succeeded?
CycleCount should drop to 0 and Full Charge Capacity (FCC) should equal Design Capacity. Users report runtime improving from 5 minutes to over 60 minutes after these indicators change [Elektroda, mat_ed, post #7669060]
Does the bq2060 support direct clip programming?
Yes; bq2060/2040 can be clipped and programmed through their SM-Bus pins without desoldering if you have access to the pack connector and valid passwords [Elektroda, misiozol, post #21413161]