When is my authenticator's battery gonna die?

#0 - Aug. 24, 2010, 6:46 a.m.

I've heard estimates of anywhere from 5-10 years depending on how often I press the button. Have any died yet? Are there any estimates on how long it will last? What kind of battery is even in there and how much juice does it take to run the algorithm and light up the screen?

Just hoping to be prepared, because dealing with someone on the phone and faxing in my photo ID to prove who I am (had to do it before) because my fob is dead doesn't sound like fun. I'd rather replace mine before I have to, I just need a rough estimate on the time window I'm dealing with.

Say I press the button about 3 times a day (once to post auctions in the morning, once to play some starcraft and once to log in for raiding)... some days more, some days less obviously. When should I order up a new authenticator?

Orlyia

#10 - Aug. 24, 2010, 9:55 a.m.

These I've been told are rated for about 7 years.

Your mileage may vary :)

Given they are a mechanical device, there is also the occasional one that will have issues - but for the most part, they've been amazingly issue-free.