Types and Uses of Button Batteries
Button batteries are compact, powerful power sources designed for small electronic devices. They are available with various chemistries and voltage specifications, making them suitable for multiple applications. Below, we outline the most common button battery types, characteristics, and recommended uses.
1. Lithium Button Batteries
Lithium button batteries are known for their high energy density and longer shelf life. They are ideal for devices that require higher power.
- Voltage: Typically 3V.
- Applications: Watches, key fobs, calculators, fitness trackers.
- Advantages: Long-lasting, lightweight, and stable performance.
2. Silver Oxide Button Batteries
Silver oxide batteries are commonly used in high-drain applications due to their ability to maintain a stable voltage for extended periods.
- Voltage: Typically 1.55V.
- Applications: Medical devices, cameras, precision instruments.
- Advantages: High capacity and consistent performance.
3. Alkaline Button Batteries
Alkaline batteries are widely used in everyday devices that require moderate power consumption. They are a more affordable option for gadgets with lower power requirements.
- Voltage: Typically 1.5V.
- Applications: Toys, small flashlights, basic remote controls.
- Advantages: Cost-effective and readily available.
4. Zinc-Air Button Batteries
Zinc-air batteries, designed for hearing aids and other hearing devices, offer an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
- Voltage: Typically 1.4V.
- Applications: Hearing aids, pagers.
- Advantages: Excellent energy-to-weight ratio and environmentally friendly.
Button Cell Battery Type Comparison
This section provides a brief overview of the key differences among button battery types, based on their chemistry, voltage, and applications.
Button Cell Battery Size Chart
Selecting the right button cell battery size is crucial for ensuring device compatibility.
Naming Convention
- Prefix Letter: Indicates the chemistry (e.g., CR for Lithium batteries, SR for Silver Oxide batteries, LR for Alkaline batteries).
- First Two Digits: Represent the diameter of the battery in millimeters.
- Last Two Digits: Represent the thickness of the battery in tenths of a millimeter.
Common Button Cell Battery Sizes
| Battery Code | Diameter (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Chemistry |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR2032 | 20 | 3.2 | Lithium |
| CR2025 | 20 | 2.5 | Lithium |
| SR626SW | 6.8 | 2.6 | Silver Oxide |
| LR44 | 11.6 | 5.4 | Alkaline |
| PR44 | 11.6 | 5.4 | Zinc Air |
Voltage Overview
Button cell batteries offer different voltages based on their chemistry, which is a crucial factor in determining the appropriate battery for your device.
- Lithium: 3V, providing high energy output for devices with higher power needs.
- Silver Oxide: 1.55V, ideal for devices requiring a stable power output.
- Alkaline: 1.5V, suitable for everyday devices with moderate power requirements.
- Zinc-Air: 1.4V, optimized for hearing aids and similar devices.
Choosing the correct voltage ensures optimal performance and prevents damage to your device.
How to Identify the Positive and Negative Sides of a Button Cell Battery
Button batteries have distinct positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. The following methods can be used to differentiate them:
Markings:
- The positive side is typically marked with a “+” sign.
- The negative side is usually the flat, unmarked side.
Physical Features:
- The positive side is often larger and rounder, while the negative side is flat.
Using a Multimeter for Testing:
If the markings are unclear, you can use a multimeter to check the polarity. The probe that shows a positive voltage on the multimeter is connected to the positive terminal.
Are Button Cell Batteries Rechargeable?
Button cell batteries come in both rechargeable and non-rechargeable forms, each suited to specific applications.
Non-Rechargeable Button Cell Batteries
Most button cell batteries are non-rechargeable, including types like alkaline and silver oxide. These are ideal for low-drain devices such as remote controls, toys, and calculators. Once depleted, they should be properly recycled or disposed of. Non-rechargeable button cell batteries are reliable and long-lasting for their intended uses.
Rechargeable Button Cell Batteries
Rechargeable button cell batteries, while less common, are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits and technological advancements. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) button cells are a prime example, offering long-term use for frequently used devices. Rechargeable lithium-ion button cells typically have a voltage of 3.6V or 3.7V. Rechargeable batteries help reduce waste and save costs over time.
Understanding the different types, sizes, voltages, and rechargeability of button cell batteries helps you choose the most appropriate battery for your device, ensuring longevity and optimal performance of the device.
Rechargeable button cell batteries are commonly found in devices such as medical equipment, fitness trackers, and certain hearing aids, offering long-term cost savings despite a higher upfront cost. By reducing the need for frequent replacements, these batteries minimize waste, making them a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice in the long run.
