Battery abrubtly dies for Missionary in DR Congo

[baertracks]

Here's a question from a missionary colleague in DR Congo who has a Thinkpad X41 (2528-55U).

The battery in a X41 Thinkpad was fully charged, working properly, and only three months old.

My friend powered down at night. The next morning the computer would not power up with the battery. A distinct buzz was coming from the battery, which stopped when the battery was removed.

The laptop will power up with the charger with and without the battery in place.

Any suggestions on possible fixes other than contacting IBM for a replacement battery?

Thanks,

FRANK