1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your vhbw 500 mAh 3.6V Li-ION replacement battery. This battery is designed to power compatible digital cameras, ensuring reliable performance. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product.
2. Safety Information
Observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the battery, camera, or personal injury:
- Charging: Only use a charger specifically designed for Lithium-ion batteries and compatible with this battery model. Using an incorrect charger may cause damage or fire.
- Short Circuit Prevention: Do not short circuit the battery terminals. Avoid contact with metal objects that could bridge the terminals.
- Heat Exposure: Do not expose the battery to fire or extreme heat. High temperatures can cause the battery to explode or leak.
- Disassembly: Do not open, disassemble, or modify the battery. This can lead to internal damage, leakage, or explosion.
- Disposal: Dispose of the battery properly according to local regulations. Do not dispose of it with household waste. Refer to the recycling section for more details.
- Water Exposure: Do not immerse the battery in water or expose it to moisture.
- Impact: Avoid dropping the battery or subjecting it to strong impacts.

Image: Front side of the vhbw battery showing the brand logo and important caution statements regarding proper usage and disposal. The text reads: "Replacement battery for Li-40B 3.7V, Li-Ion, 600mAh, 2.22Wh Model No.: BW500264000. Caution: 1. Only use with a correct charger. 2. Do not short circuit the terminals. 3. Do not dispose off battery in fire. 4. Do not open or disassemble battery. 5. Must be recycled or disposed off properly."
3. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to install the vhbw replacement battery into your compatible camera:
- Initial Charge: Before first use, fully charge the battery using a compatible charger. Refer to your camera's or charger's manual for specific charging instructions.
- Power Off Camera: Ensure your camera is turned off before attempting to install or remove the battery.
- Open Battery Compartment: Locate and open the battery compartment door on your camera. This is typically found on the bottom or side of the camera body.
- Insert Battery: Align the battery with the compartment, ensuring the contacts on the battery match the contacts inside the camera. Gently slide the battery into place until it clicks or is securely seated.
- Close Compartment: Close the battery compartment door firmly until it latches.
4. Operating Instructions
Once the battery is installed and charged, your camera is ready for use. The battery provides power for all camera functions, including capturing photos, recording videos, and reviewing media.
- Power On/Off: Use your camera's power button to turn it on or off.
- Battery Level Indicator: Monitor the battery level indicator on your camera's screen to know when recharging is necessary.
- Recharging: When the battery level is low, remove the battery from the camera and place it in a compatible charger.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life and performance of your battery:
- Regular Charging: Charge the battery regularly, even if not in frequent use, to maintain its capacity. Avoid completely draining the battery before recharging.
- Storage: Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. For long-term storage, charge the battery to approximately 50-70% capacity.
- Cleaning: Keep the battery contacts clean. If necessary, gently wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.
- Avoid Overcharging/Over-discharging: Modern Li-ION batteries have protection circuits, but it is still best practice to avoid leaving them on a charger indefinitely after they are full or allowing them to remain fully discharged for extended periods.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your battery, consider the following common solutions:
- Camera Not Turning On:
- Ensure the battery is fully charged.
- Verify the battery is correctly inserted into the camera compartment.
- Check the battery contacts for dirt or corrosion and clean if necessary.
- Battery Not Charging:
- Confirm the charger is properly connected to a power source.
- Ensure the battery is correctly placed in the charger.
- Try a different power outlet or charger (if available and compatible).
- Short Battery Life:
- Battery capacity naturally degrades over time with repeated charge cycles.
- Ensure camera settings (e.g., screen brightness, flash usage) are not excessively draining power.
- If the battery life has significantly decreased, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan and require replacement.
If problems persist, consult your camera's user manual or contact vhbw customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | vhbw |
| Model Number | VHBW4250318625181 |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion (Li-ION) |
| Capacity | 500 mAh |
| Voltage | 3.6 V |
| Energy | 1.8 Wh |
| Number of Cells | 1 |
| Weight | 13 Grams |
| Amperage | 4.8 A |
| Reusability | Rechargeable |
8. Recycling and Disposal
This battery contains materials that should be recycled. Do not dispose of the battery with general household waste. Proper disposal helps prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health.
- Recycling Points: Take the used battery to an authorized collection point for recycling electronic waste or batteries. Many retailers offer battery take-back programs.
- Local Regulations: Consult your local waste management authority for specific recycling guidelines in your area.

Image: Back side of the vhbw battery showing French recycling symbols and disposal instructions. The text indicates that batteries should be recycled and not disposed of in general waste, with a link to a website for repair or donation of appliances.
9. Compatibility
This vhbw replacement battery is compatible with the following camera models and replaces the specified original battery part numbers:
Compatible Camera Models:
- Praktica Luxmedia 10-03
- Praktica Luxmedia 12-04
- Praktica Luxmedia 12-Z
- Praktica Luxmedia 12-Z4
- Praktica Luxmedia 12-Z4TS
- Praktica Luxmedia 12-Z5
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-04
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-Z4
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-Z4TS
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-Z50
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-Z50S
- Praktica Luxmedia 14-Z51
- Praktica Luxmedia 16-Z51
Replaces Original Battery Part Numbers:
- NP45
- NP-45
- NP-45A