Abstract: A battery pack for powering a portable electronic device is disclosed. The battery pack includes means for connecting the battery pack to the portable electronic device such that a main power terminal of the battery pack engages a main power input port of the portable electronic device. An auxiliary power output terminal is located on an outer surface of the portable electronic device that is capable of receiving a power cord for powering the portable electronic device through an auxiliary power input port located on the portable electronic device. A charger input terminal is also included on the outer surface of the battery pack for receiving the power cord for recharging the battery pack.

Abstract: A system for updating battery software includes a programmable battery unit that includes an internal access point. The programmable battery unit includes a battery control unit that controls the overall functionality of the programmable battery unit. A programmable storage medium may be included on the battery control unit. The storage medium has stored therein battery software operable to control certain features of the programmable battery unit. An input port may be connected with the battery control unit. An update device that includes a second storage medium having stored therein updated battery software for the programmable battery unit. A connector may be included for connecting the update device to the input port of the programmable battery unit. A software routine on the update device is operable to automatically transfer the updated battery software from the update device to the first storage medium of the programmable battery unit thereby reprogramming the programmable battery unit.