The HP R104 / RI04 battery is engineered as a direct replacement for numerous HP laptop models, with primary compatibility including the HP ProBook 450 G3 (Touch and non-Touch variants), ProBook 455 G3, ProBook 470 G3, and the HP Envy 15-q series (including 15-q000, 15-q100, and 15-q200 models). This battery also fits select other HP notebooks that share the same chassis design and power requirements, making it one of the most versatile genuine HP replacement batteries available. The R104 replaces the original battery part numbers L04353-001, L04353-002, and L04354-001, ensuring perfect physical fitment and electrical compatibility. Before installation, users should verify their laptop's exact model number (found on the bottom label or in system information) and cross-reference with the original battery's part number to guarantee optimal performance. This level of compatibility makes the R104 an ideal solution for IT departments managing multiple laptop models, educational institutions with mixed fleets, and individual users seeking guaranteed compatibility.

The battery utilizes high-density lithium-ion cells from reputable manufacturers, ensuring consistent performance and minimal capacity fade over time. The enclosure is constructed from UL94 V-0 rated flame-retardant plastic, providing superior protection against thermal incidents. The integrated circuit board features a microcontroller that monitors individual cell voltages, current flow, temperature, and charge cycle count, communicating this data to the laptop's power management system via the SMBus protocol. This smart battery technology enables features like accurate time-remaining estimates, adaptive charging algorithms, and detailed battery health reporting through the operating system.

Under typical usage conditions (web browsing, document editing, email, and light multimedia at medium brightness settings), the HP R104 battery delivers between 5 to 7 hours of productive runtime. For more demanding tasks such as video editing, CAD applications, or gaming, users can expect 2.5 to 4 hours of operation. The actual battery life varies based on multiple factors including screen brightness level, processor load, active wireless connections (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth), background applications, and ambient temperature. The battery supports standard charging with compatible HP 65W or 90W AC adapters, reaching approximately 90% capacity in 90 minutes, with the final 10% using trickle charging to maximize cell longevity. Performance optimization tips include reducing screen brightness to 40-60%, utilizing power saving modes during light tasks, closing unnecessary background applications, and disabling unused wireless radios when not needed.

The HP R104 battery incorporates multiple layers of protection that exceed industry safety standards. The primary safety systems include overvoltage protection (OVP) that prevents charging above 16.8V, undervoltage lockout (UVLO) that disconnects the battery when cell voltage drops below critical levels, overcurrent protection (OCP) that limits discharge current to safe levels, and short circuit protection that instantly disables output during fault conditions. A dedicated temperature monitoring circuit continuously tracks cell temperature using negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors, adjusting charging parameters or suspending operation if temperatures exceed safe thresholds. The battery management system (BMS) includes cell balancing technology that ensures all four cells maintain equal voltage levels during charging and discharging, preventing individual cell overstress. These comprehensive safety features have earned the battery UL, CE, and RoHS certifications, confirming compliance with international safety and environmental standards.

Installing the HP R104 battery is a straightforward process that requires no special tools or technical expertise. Begin by completely shutting down your laptop and disconnecting the AC power adapter. For most compatible models, turn the laptop over and locate the battery release latch or latches (typically one or two sliding mechanisms). Slide the latch(es) to the unlock position, which will release the existing battery. Carefully lift the battery out of the compartment, paying attention to the connector orientation. Align the new R104 battery with the compartment, ensuring the connector pins match the laptop's socket. Gently press the battery into place until it clicks securely. Reconnect the AC adapter and power on the laptop. The system will automatically recognize the new battery and may display a notification confirming successful detection. For optimal performance, HP recommends performing a full calibration cycle: charge the battery to 100%, then allow it to discharge completely (to approximately 5%) before recharging to 100% again. This process helps the battery gauge circuit provide accurate runtime estimates.

To maximize the lifespan and performance of your HP R104 battery, follow these maintenance guidelines: Avoid consistently draining the battery to 0% - instead, recharge when it reaches 20-30% capacity. Conversely, avoid keeping the battery at 100% charge continuously when connected to AC power for extended periods; consider removing the battery if the laptop will be used primarily on AC power for several days. Store the battery at approximately 50% charge if it won't be used for more than a month. Maintain the battery within its recommended temperature range (0°C to 45°C), avoiding exposure to direct sunlight, hot vehicles, or freezing conditions. Every 2-3 months, perform a full discharge/charge cycle to recalibrate the battery gauge. These practices can extend the battery's useful life to 3-4 years or approximately 1000 charge cycles while maintaining above 70% of original capacity. The battery includes a fuel gauge chip that tracks cycle count and capacity degradation, accessible through HP Support Assistant software.

HP designs the R104 battery with environmental responsibility integrated throughout its lifecycle. The lithium-ion cells contain no heavy metals like cadmium or mercury, and the plastic housing uses recyclable materials with flame retardants that meet strict environmental standards. The manufacturing process adheres to HP's sustainability guidelines, minimizing energy consumption and waste generation. At end of life, the battery should never be disposed of in regular household waste due to its chemical composition and potential environmental impact. HP participates in multiple battery recycling programs worldwide, offering convenient return options through authorized service centers and retail partners. Through these programs, valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and copper are recovered and reused in new products, while hazardous components are safely processed. This circular approach reduces mining demand and minimizes environmental footprint, aligning with global sustainability initiatives.

The genuine HP R104 battery includes comprehensive warranty protection against defects in materials and workmanship. Standard warranty coverage typically spans 12 months from the date of purchase, though this may vary by region and retailer. Warranty claims are processed through HP's global service network, with options including advance replacement, in-warranty repair, or authorized service center support. To activate warranty coverage, retain your original purchase receipt and consider registering the product on HP's support website. HP provides extensive technical resources including detailed installation guides, troubleshooting articles, battery maintenance recommendations, and diagnostic tools through HP Support Assistant. This software also provides battery health reports, estimated remaining capacity, and optimization suggestions based on your usage patterns. Compared to uncertified aftermarket alternatives, genuine HP batteries offer reliable warranty support and access to HP's technical expertise.