# Battery De-passivation

***(Applies from Firmware 7.0.26i onwards, API 7/NEXT devices only)***

This feature was introduced starting from **Firmware version 7.0.26i**.\
Devices produced with this firmware or any later version **can be stored for any number of years before field deployment** without risk of battery passivation issues.

For devices produced with **firmware versions earlier than 7.0.26**, it is **recommended to activate (exit) the devices from factory within 6 months of delivery** to ensure optimal battery performance.

**What is Passivation?**\
Lithium thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl₂) AA batteries naturally develop a thin passivation layer on the lithium anode when stored for long periods. This layer acts as a protective film that reduces self-discharge and extends shelf life. However, it also increases the internal resistance of the battery, which may temporarily prevent the device from drawing the required current.

**What is De-passivation?**\
De-passivation is the process of breaking down this protective layer to restore the battery’s normal chemical activity and allow it to deliver the required power.

**When does it happen?**

* The de-passivation process automatically begins when the device exits **factory mode**.
* The **Orange LED** starts flashing, indicating that de-passivation is in progress.
* It may also occur when factory mode is **manually activated** via commands.

**How long does it take?**

* Typically: **30 seconds to 1 minute**
* If the device has been stored for a long time, **up to 15 minutes**

**Which batteries does it apply to?**

* Only applies to **Lithium Thionyl Chloride (Li-SOCl₂) AA batteries**
* **Not applicable** for LiMnO₂ batteries  

**Benefits of Passivation/De-passivation**

* Passivation extends the storage life of Li-SOCl₂ batteries by minimizing self-discharge.
* De-passivation ensures that, after storage, the battery can reliably deliver full performance when placed in operation.

**Read more:** [\[Lithium Thionyl Chloride Batteries Passivation\]](https://www.digikey.com.br/Site/Global/Layouts/DownloadPdf.ashx?pdfUrl=78B0FD56B776443585A795915229D833)

#### How to Activate De-passivation After Battery Replacement

Battery replacement usually occurs after the device has been in operation and the batteries have been depleted. Depending on whether the device was in **factory mode** or **user mode**, the de-passivation process may need to be triggered manually.

**Step 1.** Replace the batteries following the [\[Battery Replacement Guide\]](https://ask.simplehw.eu/kb/simple-api-6-generation/overview/device-list/battery-replacement).

**Scenario A: Device was in active use (not in factory mode)**

1. Switch the device to factory mode:
   * Send a downlink command to activate factory (transport) mode:

     ```
     0x15  Switch to factory (transport) mode  
     DL: 000000000000FF15
     ```
   * Request the downlink via **extra long press**, and verify that the confirmation message (`DA`) has been received.
2. Once the command is confirmed, the **Orange LED** will begin flashing, indicating that the de-passivation process has started.
3. Wait until the de-passivation is complete (30 seconds to 15 minutes, depending on the storage time).
4. Exit factory mode and return the device to normal operation.

**Scenario B: Device was already in factory mode**

* Simply replace the batteries. The device will automatically initiate the de-passivation process (Orange LED flashes).
* Once completed, you can exit factory mode and continue using the device.

**Note**\
Before performing the de-passivation process after a battery replacement, we recommend contacting us first to confirm if it is necessary.

* If the batteries were purchased directly from us, we will inform you in advance whether de-passivation is required.
* If the batteries were purchased from a third party, please reach out to us for a short discussion. The need for de-passivation depends on factors such as **when the batteries were produced** and **how long they have been stored** before use.