PalmOne does not recommend any user replace the rechargeable battery on any device without a removeable battery. Here is an excerpt from Palm's site

"Any other hardware modification that involves unscrewing the casing of your device will void your warranty. Some third-party sites sell RAM, lithium ion batteries, and other after-market upgrades. Please remember that adding these items will prevent you from being eligible for palmOne Repair Center service if your device requires repair down the road."

Obviously, you purchased a third party battery and installed it yourself. What are the specs on the battery that you purchased?

Mind Over Matt'er - Technology musings, opinion, and more straight from TechLore's head geek.

Well, I suppose it is possible that the charging circuitry in the unit has gone defective. Seems like an odd problem, but I suppose stranger things have happened. That's the only possible explanation I can think of.

A good way to find out would be to use the new battery in another Palm M130. If it works, you know it's your unit that's bad. If not, then I'd buy another make of battery. I know... good look finding another M130 to test it on.

Have you considered buying a new Palm?

Mind Over Matt'er - Technology musings, opinion, and more straight from TechLore's head geek.

While it's true that Palm had split into 2 entities in the past, PalmSource and PalmOne, recent events has brought the 2 divisions back together again. The company, go figure, will be called Palm when it reintegrates. It's still uncertain whether or not you'll be able to purchase other brand Palm-based PDAs in the future.

I agree that charging 150 bucks to replace the battery is rediculous, providing that there is not anything else wrong with the unit. I would be interested in hearing the results of your dialouge with Palm. Perhaps this will be a good test as to what Palm will do to service their customer, even if they have tried to service the unit themselves before hand. Is a Windows Mobile 5.0 device in your future???

When this matter is settled, either in your favor or not, I encourage you to write an experience article about this for the TechLore Community. If your desire is to steer people away from Palm, a well written account detailing your experience is a sure-fire way to accomplish that goal.

Mind Over Matt'er - Technology musings, opinion, and more straight from TechLore's head geek.

Boston Dave,

Thanks for giving the community an update. It's unfortunate that Palm could not do more for you. In fact, I'm really disappointed with their response to your issue.

Now that you have a shiny new X50v, when can we expect your full review? Or, maybe a few how to's with what you've learned to do with it so far... I'd be more than happy to help you author any article you wish to write. Read this for more details.

Mind Over Matt'er - Technology musings, opinion, and more straight from TechLore's head geek.