BitLocker questions

I saved my BitLocker recovery key to my USB flash drive and it has the usual Recovery TXT file, but when I unhide the System files in File Explorer, it shows also the BEK file which is a hidden file. I got a new USB flash drive and need to transfer all the data from my current USB drive. My question is, should I also copy the BEK file as well to my new USB flash drive along with the usual TXT Recovery file? I am afraid that in case BitLocker goes into Recovery Mode, it will not be able to recognize the USB because of that missing BEK file.

Another question. When replacing my laptop battery, do I need to Suspend BitLocker? Will BitLocker go into recovery mode if the battery is pulled out and inserting a new one?

Thanks in advance!

Copy both. The .bek is for unlocking, the .txt is just a file with your recovery key in human readable format in case you have to type it in.

Changing battery will not trigger anything. I have 2 batteries and often swap them daily - there is no need to suspend bitlocker.

So I need to save both the TXT and the BEK files even if I have TPM-Only protection enabled?

I thought the BEK was only when Bitlocker is used with a Startup USB stick to unlock or start the computer.

According to the link below, BitLocker will go into Recovery mode when the battery is swapped out or fully drains out.

This leads to my next question. does it also ask for the Recovery Key when a laptop battery fully drains itself down?

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/win...ery-guide-plan
Removing, inserting, or completely depleting the charge on a smart battery on a portable computer.

Will BitLocker ask for the Recovery Key when the laptop battery has not been charged for a while?