Have you ever wondered why batteries are labeled as 123 or 123a? You’re probably wondering what kind of a difference they have between them. This article will explain 123 battery vs 123A, which one is better, and for what are these batteries used?
What Exactly Does The CR Stand For?
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) uses the prefix CR to indicate the lithium chemistry of the battery, especially LiMnO2 (Lithium-Ion Manganese Oxide).
The letter C stands for lithium, while the letter R indicates that the batteries are spherical. The values that follow show the battery’s size. The abbreviation 123A refers to a single battery that is two-thirds the size of a regular A battery, and some manufacturers leave off the letter A at the end.
What Are 123 Batteries?
CR123s are 3V lithium batteries that are tiny yet powerful. They are intended for small devices like alarm clocks, flashlights, cameras, and other household devices. Their power capacity usually ranges between 1,500 and 2,500 mAh (milliampere-hour).
Most CR123s have a constant current capacity of 2,000 mAh and a pulse current capacity of 3,000 mAh. Because of their mAh capacity, several of these batteries can power up a device that requires 100 mA (milliamperes) for up to 30 hours.
What Are 123A Batteries?
CR123As are tiny, high-voltage batteries.
They’re often utilized for little products that require a lot of power. LED torches and digital cameras are some examples of those high-performance devices. CR123As are typically 33.4 mm in length, 17 mm in diameter, and weigh around 17 grams.
A pulse current of 3000 mAh and a power supply of 2000 mAh is provided by most CR123A batteries. The rating indicates that, much like CR123, they can provide a 30-hour power supply to a 100 mA device.
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123 Battery Vs 123A: Similarities And Differences
Regarding the problem between 123 battery vs 123A, the letter A is the only significant difference between these batteries. Both of them are virtually identical when it comes to their performance, functionality, chemistry, and longevity.
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Size
Both the CR123 and CR123A batteries are small and powerful. They are both excellent choices for compact devices that require a lot of energy, such as high-output LED lights.
Generally, 123s are longer and thinner when compared with 123As. The difference, however, is less than 0.55 mm in any direction. Measurements are somewhat different, which makes it difficult to distinguish between them.
They are substantially shorter than alkaline AA batteries (average length 44 mm) yet provide double the power. 6V from two CR123s covers a much shorter range than 3V using two AAs.
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Life Expectancy
Both batteries usually have a shelf life of up to ten years before usage when stored at temperatures less than 60°C. The device and the manufacturer determine the actual lifespan. An alarm system can last up to five years if used correctly.
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Voltage
Three volts (3V) is the formal voltage of ordinary 123s and 123As, and their standard loaded voltage is generally between 2 and 2.5 volts.
But, given their tiny size, both cells are able to pump electrical currents through the device. Typically, there is no discernible variation in voltage between the two types of batteries.
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Chemistry
Both batteries employ a lithium-based salt as the electrolyte in a chemical system based on lithium and manganese dioxide (LiMnO2). The cathode (positive terminal) on both types of cells is constructed of heat-treated manganese dioxide.
The chemical system operates similarly, producing a high energy density per unit mass (280 Wh/kg) and volume (580 Wh/liter).
The energy density of a battery is usually measured in Wh (watt-hour). Wh per kg or liter measures battery energy per unit mass or volume.
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Safety
Lithium is a potentially hazardous substance, especially when it comes into touch with the skin. Furthermore, the excessive voltage might cause gadget damage.
PTC (Pressure, Temperature, Current) security is included in the 123s and 123As, and if the current becomes too high, it disconnects the circuit.
Can I Interchange Rechargeable With Non-Rechargeable CR123A Batteries?
If you do, it will not harm your device; however, rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries may have voltage levels and capacities. Furthermore, the dimensions may differ somewhat.
Some gadgets will only operate with one of the two, so verify the specs on your device before switching.
Storing CR 123A Batteries
Purchasing high-quality batteries are the most secure option. Keep them in a dry place away from significant temperature variations, and they don’t usually detonate by merely sitting there. Batteries fail catastrophically due to misuse or abuse; ten years is the maximum shelf life.
Are CR 123A Batteries All the Same?
All 123As have the same fundamental capabilities in terms of specifications. However, new features and aesthetics may be added by each manufacturer to differentiate their goods.
You shouldn’t be able to distinguish between well-known brands, such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. However, if the battery isn’t manufactured in the United States, it may vary from the usual 123. Therefore, check the manufacturer’s information.
What Are The Applications Of CR 123A Batteries
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Wireless Security
While alkaline batteries may undergo severe voltage dips, the stable voltage curve in lithium CR123As provides maximum power throughout the battery’s life.
Voltage dips can create inconsistent operation, jeopardizing a smart security system, especially those connected to wireless networks.
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Home Automation
Smart lights and speakers, for example, may be linked into the house and powered by the electrical network. Small sensors (such as motion and door entry) are frequently battery-powered for ease of placement in strategic areas.
Because these batteries are inactive until the sensors are engaged, they must have a long shelf life.
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Lightning Equipment
Lighting applications can benefit from increased current provided by CR123As. LED lights that utilize CR123A batteries are usually brighter than AA batteries, and just one cell is often used rather than two (reducing the size of the end product).
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Tactical Equipment
Tactical equipment like scopes, laser rangefinders, and ballistic computers are frequently used outdoors; therefore, the CR123As’ wide temperature range is excellent – they may be utilized in extremely cold or hot situations.
Because of its long shelf life and Ultralife’s history of proven military designs, CR123A batteries are considered perfect for survival devices such as beacons and emergency locator transmitters.
In the end, both are clear winners when it comes to the competition of 123 battery vs 123A. The option solely depends on you choosing what is right.
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