Abstract: This invention includes a battery pack having an environmental sensor. The battery pack can be coupled to an electronic communications device like a cellular telephone. The battery pack transmits an electronic signal corresponding to the environmental conditions through mating contacts to the electronic communications device so that it may display the information to a user. Alternatively, the display screen can be integrated into the battery pack such that the battery pack itself is an environmental sensor. The types of environmental sensors that may be used include ambient temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, smoke detectors, and pollen detectors. This invention also includes a system for measuring the ambient temperature with an electronic communication device that is an improvement over U.S. Pat. No. 5,603,101, in that the temperature sensor is disposed in the battery pack where the rechargeable cell can serve as an insulator from the heat generated by the electronic host device.

Abstract: An apparatus for warming a battery for a personal electronic device includes a heating element and a holder. The holder holds the heating element adjacent to the battery for the personal electronic device so as to apply heat thereto. Exemplary heating means include supersaturated solutions and ferrous materials. The invention allows the user to operate a portable electronic device in environments that would otherwise be prohibitory due to the temperature operating limitations of the battery.

Abstract: An apparatus for warming a battery for a personal electronic device includes a heating element and a holder. The holder holds the heating element adjacent to the battery for the personal electronic device so as to apply heat thereto. Exemplary heating means include supersaturated solutions and ferrous materials. The invention allows the user to operate a portable electronic device in environments that would otherwise be prohibitory due to the temperature operating limitations of the battery.