#2 - Sept. 4, 2010, 2:49 p.m.
Q u o t e:
How long do they last? How often should they be replaced?
I ordered mine when they first came out and it is getting old.
I got my authenticator when they first came out as well, Ewki, and have yet to encounter an issue with it. Longevity for an authenticator can vary on how often it is used, how well it is taken care of, etc. On the average the battery life is roughly 5-7 years, as Agonist mentioned.
Q u o t e:
If you can't get into account management you cannot take them off of the account while you order new ones.
With over 11 million users your phone lines are understandably busy so a little prevention is valuable here.
Account Services would be able to assist you with removing the authenticator(s) provided the accounts could be properly verified. Be sure to have either the serial numbers on the back of the authenticator or the original World of Warcraft CD keys for removal purposes.
Q u o t e:
When should we consider ordering new ones?
As for me personally, I have a backup authenticator ready in the event my current one stops working. I am also “one of those people” that will order one when the new designs are released so you can imagine how many I have. :)
You can always order several authenticators as backups, that way if the current one is removed, you can immediately add another. Since you have several people in your family that use the authenticator, you can add one of their authenticators to the account while you place an order for another. If you have a compatible mobile device, you can download the Battle.net Mobile Authenticator application.
Have a backup plan in the event of fire, flood, or acts of dog.