New batteries come uncharged.
In order to break in a new battery we suggest charging and then discharging the battery 2-4 times so they can reach their full rated capacity. You can discharge most portables by unplugging the AC adapter and leaving them turned on until completely discharged. Eliminate Memory Effects NiCad batteries suffer from an affliction known as the memory effect. The battery will only charge to the level at which the battery was last discharged due to an accumulation of gas bubbles on the cell plates. This means draining the battery until your portable shuts off, and then recharging it.