123\SmartBMS gen3. 123 battery voltage

3\SmartBMS gen3

123\SmartBMS gen3 is an easy to use yet advanced, modular BMS to keep your lithium batteries in perfect condition, increasing the lifespan of the battery pack.

The BMS measures important data like cell voltages, cell temperatures and in- and outgoing currents with the two included high accuracy, dual range current sensors. By measuring both currents independently, it is possible to know the current production and consumption. The system balances all cells to the same voltage during charging.

Two integrated signal relays with potential free contacts can be used to switch enable/disable signals or power relays to control the power to chargers/solar regulators and/or inverters.

Easily connect your phone to the BMS to see relevant information including state of charge, energy consumed, energy stored, in- and outgoing current, cell voltages, cell temperatures, SoC history of the last week and error history.

Downloads

App

Features

Main features

• Modular BMS which can be used from 2 to 255 cells.
• Advanced Victron GX integration and remote monitoring via Victron VRM (123\SmartBMS to USB cable required).
• Can be mounted directly on the cells, no external controller needed.
• Two signal relays with potential free contacts which indicate the system is allowed to load and/or charge. This can be used to switch enable/disable signals or power relays.
• Possible to use two current sensors instead of one to see consumed and produced energy independently.
• Bluetooth connection to see relevant data on your portable device.
• Compatible with almost any cell chemistry including LTO, LiFePO4, NMC and NCA.
• 1A balancing current. Even big cell capacities will be balanced.

Frequenty Asked Questions

On which type of batteries can I use this BMS?

The BMS cell boards work in a voltage range from 1.5V to 5V. Every cell that operates between this voltage should be compatible. A couple of working cell chemistry examples are LTO, LiFePO4, NMC and NCA.

Can I use only one current sensor instead of two?

Yes, it is possible to only use 1 current sensor, the BMS will also work perfectly fine. Using one sensor will use less power on the Begin Board. The drawback is that you cannot measure incoming and outgoing currents independently, but only see the current going in or out the battery pack. Connect the current sensor to Sensor 1 on the Begin Board and make sure to see a positive current in the App next to the battery icon when charging and a negative current when discharging.

Can I place multiple cells or packs parallel?

You can safely place multiple cells parallel and only need 1 BMS cell module per parallel group. For instance: a 12V LiFePO4 pack consists of 4 cell groups in series. In case you have 8 cells, the pack is configured as 2P4S (groups of 2 cells parallel, then these parallel groups in series). In this case you only need 1 BMS for 4S (4 cell groups).

When you have to connect multiple packs parallel, you need 1 complete BMS per pack. You can connect the signal relays on each OUT board in series. For instance: with 3 packs parallel, you can run the charging signal through from the first OUT boa rd Charge relay to the second Charge relay and through the third Charge relay. This signal can switch an enable/disable or power relay. When one or more BMS have a cell charge error, the signal path is broken. The same goes for the Load relays in series.

My BMS has no communication

No battery data on the app and the “E” sign will light ON in the battery details tab of the App. Check the flashing LEDs on the string of cells.

The BMS message starts at the Begin Board. When the next board received the message, the LED will flash and the board will send the message to the next board.

The position where the LED stops flashing is the location of the problem. It can be that board or the previous board. Check if the communication wire goes from the “OUT” in the previous board to that board’s “IN” connector.

I forgot my BMS PIN number

While the Begin Board is connected to the battery cell, press and hold the blue button for 5 seconds. The PIN will be set to the default “1234”.

Wireless connection does not work

Make sure your phone supports Bluetooth 4 or higher.

Android 7.0 contains a bug which can make it impossible to connect to the BMS. If your phone has Android 7.0, please check and update the Android version if this is possible. For help regarding updating the Android version, please contact your phone manufacturer.

The following steps can help to connect to the BMS.

• If you have Android, make sure you have wireless connection AND location turned on.
• Restart the App and check in de Settings screen if the BMS appears under “Devices”. Tap on it to connect.
• Restart your phone and open the App to check again.
• Try a different phone, download the 123SmartBMS app and check if you see the BMS in the device list.
• While the End Board is powered, hold the blue button for 5 seconds. The PIN number will reset to the factory default (1234) and after approximately 10 seconds the Bluetooth module is reset.

Why does the Android app need location permission?

The 123\SmartBMS has Bluetooth Low Energy. To get a list of devices nearby, the app asks Android to scan for Bluetooth Low Energy devices. Android only starts scanning for these devices if location permission is turned on. Otherwise, the app will get an empty list.

When you turn the location permission on, the app will get a list of BLE devices that are close enough, like 123\SmartBMS.

The app does not use or store the location in any way.

Which relay do you recommend?

This depends on the application. We always recommend a power efficient relay which consumes few energy when turned on.

Recommended relays

Pack voltage Maximum current Relay Note

12V		123\SmartRelay 120A
12V	120A 220A	Victron BatteryProtect 220A	Only one directional currents
24V		123\SmartRelay 120A
24V	120A 220A	Victron BatteryProtect 220A	Only one directional currents
48V		123\PowerSwitch 48V 100A
All voltages		Kilovac EV200	Coil voltage up to 96V

The hole is too small for my bolt. Can I drill the holes bigger?

Yes, the boards are designed so the pole can be drilled bigger if needed.

Indicated currents are not zero while no current is being drawn

Make sure there is running absolutely no current through the current sensors during the zero calibration procedure.

On the Begin Board you will find a blue button. Press and hold the blue button until the LED flashes fast. Now release the button. The calibration is done.

My pack slowly discharges by a small leakage current but the SoC does not change

Very small currents cannot be measured by the current sensor, so the BMS will not update the SoC. Only when one of the cells is below Vmin, the SoC will be recalibrated to 0% because this is a known point to be empty.

Make sure the pack is charged regularly so the SoC is recalibrated to 100% when full.

If you are not going to use the pack for a longer time (for example because it is winter), you can disconnect all loads so the pack will not be drawn until empty. You can also connect a small trickle charger to prevent the batteries from being discharged during standby.

How to control a Victron device with GX in the installation

For all information regarding Victron GX integration, see Victron Integration.

How to control a Victron without any GX

First set the correct absorption voltage. The end/absorption voltage needs to match the battery pack to operate correctly. For example: if you have 4 cells and the balance voltage (Vbalance) is 3.4V, the pack balance voltage is 3.4V x 4 cells = 13.6V. You need to configure the charger to an end/absorption voltage a bit higher (about 0.2V) than this voltage which is 13.8V.

Device with remote signal Many Victron devices have a “remote” or “enable” signal which consists of two wires. As long as the two wires are connected to each other, the device will be enabled. When the signal path is broken, the device will switch to standby mode. This “remote” signal can directly be connected to the SmartBMS signal relay.

For example if you have an inverter with a remote port, you can wire the two remote wires to the Discharge/Load signal relay potential free contacts located on the End Board (last cell board). Use connector pin 1 and 2, which are “allow to charge” and “common contact”.

Victron BlueSolar and SmartSolar MPPT Charge controller Use the Victron VE.Direct non inverting remote on-off cable, part number ASS030550310. With this cable, you can connect the battery to pin 2 (common contact) of the Charge signal relay of the SmartBMS. Connect the Victron yellow remote cable to the SmartBMS Charge contact pin 1 (allow to charge). Also see the Victron document.

Victron without GX or “remote” control If your Victron device does not have a remote control signal and cannot use the VE.Direct non inverting remote on-off cable, you can still connect a power efficient power relay to the BMS so the BMS can switch off the device in case this is needed. See the manual for a general schematic.

How to control a combined charger/inverter

It is possible to use a combined charger/inverter. Just use 1 current sensor and connect this sensor to sensor 1. Make sure to run the current cable the right way through the current sensor. When charging, you should see a positive current in the app next to the battery icon. When discharging, you should see a negative current.

• Combined charger/inverter with two enable/disable signals, one for charger and one for inverter You can keep the BMS in “normal mode” and use the charge relay for the enable/disable signal of the charger and the load relay for the enable/disable signal of the inverter.

• Combined charger/inverter with 1 enable/disable or no enable/disable signal In ”normal mode” the BMS will switch off the charge relay when the battery pack is full. However, this would mean the shared power will be switched off and the user is not able to discharge. For this case the BMS can be configured in “critical mode”. The BMS will only switch the power off in case there is a critical error condition. You can change to Critical Mode at Settings in the app. Connect the charge and load relay of the BMS in series to get a combined charge/load signal. Now you can switch a power relay or the enable/disable signal of the device.The charger/inverter bulk/end/absorption voltage needs to match the battery pack to operate correctly. For example: if you have 4 cells and the balance voltage (Vbalance) is 3.4V, the pack balance voltage is 3.4V x 4 cells = 13.6V. You need to configure the charger to a bulk/end voltage a bit higher (about 0.025V-0.04V higher per cell) than this voltage which is 13.8V. For 16 LiFePO4 cells, this is 54.8V-55.0V.

How to wire the 123PowerSwitch

The 123\PowerSwitch can be used to switch off one or more loads/chargers and can be controlled by the 123\SmartBMS.

There are two configurations possible:

Use one 123\PowerSwitch for the whole installation In this configuration, the 123\PowerSwitch will be used as “last line of defense”. When a cell has an error, for example when a cell voltage is too high or too low, the PowerSwitch will be turned off and thus all connected chargers and loads will be disconnected from the battery. When the error is gone, the PowerSwitch turns on again.

This configuration is mostly used with combined chargers/inverters which is a setup where the charger and inverter are in the same device like the Victron Quattro/Multiplus.

Connect the 123\PowerSwitch black control wire (negative) to the battery pack negative. Connect the 123\PowerSwitch red control wire to the “common contact” of the End Board Charge signal relay potential free contacts. Connect the End Board Charge signal relay “allowed to charge” to the Load signal relay “allowed to discharge”. Connect the End Board Load signal relay “common contact” to the battery pack

Use two 123\PowerSwitches: one for all chargers and one for all loads/inverters The benefit of this configuration is that when one PowerSwitch is off, for example the “allowed to discharge”, the other PowerSwitch (“allowed to charge”) stays on. Thus if a battery cell is empty, the charger will stay connected to charge the pack.

Connect a wire from the battery pack to the “common contact” (middle hole) of the Load signal relay and to the Charge signal relay. Connect the 123\PowerSwitch black control wire (negative) of both PowerSwitches to the battery pack negative. Connect the End Board Charge signal relay “allowed to charge” pin to the charge 123\PowerSwitch red control wire. Connect the End Board Load signal relay “allowed to discharge” pin to the discharge 123\PowerSwitch red control wire.

How to wire the Victron BatteryProtect

The Victron BatteryProtect can be used to switch off one or more loads/inverters and can be controlled by the 123\SmartBMS.

Connect the BatteryProtect Remote wire 1 to SmartBMS End Board Load relay “common contact” (pin 2). Connect the BatteryProtect Remote wire 2 to SmartBMS End Board Load relay “allow to discharge” (pin 3). When discharging is allowed, Remote pin 1 and Remote pin 2 are connected to each other to let the BatteryProtect know charging is allowed.

3\SmartBMS gen3

123\SmartBMS gen3 is an easy to use yet advanced, modular BMS to keep your lithium batteries in perfect condition, increasing the lifespan of the battery pack.

The BMS measures important data like cell voltages, cell temperatures and in- and outgoing currents with the two included high accuracy, dual range current sensors. By measuring both currents independently, it is possible to know the current production and consumption. The system balances all cells to the same voltage during charging.

Two integrated signal relays with potential free contacts can be used to switch enable/disable signals or power relays to control the power to chargers/solar regulators and/or inverters.

Easily connect your phone to the BMS to see relevant information including state of charge, energy consumed, energy stored, in- and outgoing current, cell voltages, cell temperatures, SoC history of the last week and error history.

Downloads

App

Features

Main features

• Modular BMS which can be used from 2 to 255 cells.
• Advanced Victron GX integration and remote monitoring via Victron VRM (123\SmartBMS to USB cable required).
• Can be mounted directly on the cells, no external controller needed.
• Two signal relays with potential free contacts which indicate the system is allowed to load and/or charge. This can be used to switch enable/disable signals or power relays.
• Possible to use two current sensors instead of one to see consumed and produced energy independently.
• Bluetooth connection to see relevant data on your portable device.
• Compatible with almost any cell chemistry including LTO, LiFePO4, NMC and NCA.
• 1A balancing current. Even big cell capacities will be balanced.

Frequenty Asked Questions

On which type of batteries can I use this BMS?

The BMS cell boards work in a voltage range from 1.5V to 5V. Every cell that operates between this voltage should be compatible. A couple of working cell chemistry examples are LTO, LiFePO4, NMC and NCA.

Can I use only one current sensor instead of two?

Yes, it is possible to only use 1 current sensor, the BMS will also work perfectly fine. Using one sensor will use less power on the Begin Board. The drawback is that you cannot measure incoming and outgoing currents independently, but only see the current going in or out the battery pack. Connect the current sensor to Sensor 1 on the Begin Board and make sure to see a positive current in the App next to the battery icon when charging and a negative current when discharging.

Can I place multiple cells or packs parallel?

You can safely place multiple cells parallel and only need 1 BMS cell module per parallel group. For instance: a 12V LiFePO4 pack consists of 4 cell groups in series. In case you have 8 cells, the pack is configured as 2P4S (groups of 2 cells parallel, then these parallel groups in series). In this case you only need 1 BMS for 4S (4 cell groups).

When you have to connect multiple packs parallel, you need 1 complete BMS per pack. You can connect the signal relays on each OUT board in series. For instance: with 3 packs parallel, you can run the charging signal through from the first OUT boa rd Charge relay to the second Charge relay and through the third Charge relay. This signal can switch an enable/disable or power relay. When one or more BMS have a cell charge error, the signal path is broken. The same goes for the Load relays in series.

My BMS has no communication

No battery data on the app and the “E” sign will light ON in the battery details tab of the App. Check the flashing LEDs on the string of cells.

The BMS message starts at the Begin Board. When the next board received the message, the LED will flash and the board will send the message to the next board.

The position where the LED stops flashing is the location of the problem. It can be that board or the previous board. Check if the communication wire goes from the “OUT” in the previous board to that board’s “IN” connector.

I forgot my BMS PIN number

While the Begin Board is connected to the battery cell, press and hold the blue button for 5 seconds. The PIN will be set to the default “1234”.

Wireless connection does not work

Make sure your phone supports Bluetooth 4 or higher.

Android 7.0 contains a bug which can make it impossible to connect to the BMS. If your phone has Android 7.0, please check and update the Android version if this is possible. For help regarding updating the Android version, please contact your phone manufacturer.

The following steps can help to connect to the BMS.

• If you have Android, make sure you have wireless connection AND location turned on.
• Restart the App and check in de Settings screen if the BMS appears under “Devices”. Tap on it to connect.
• Restart your phone and open the App to check again.
• Try a different phone, download the 123SmartBMS app and check if you see the BMS in the device list.
• While the End Board is powered, hold the blue button for 5 seconds. The PIN number will reset to the factory default (1234) and after approximately 10 seconds the Bluetooth module is reset.

Why does the Android app need location permission?

The 123\SmartBMS has Bluetooth Low Energy. To get a list of devices nearby, the app asks Android to scan for Bluetooth Low Energy devices. Android only starts scanning for these devices if location permission is turned on. Otherwise, the app will get an empty list.

When you turn the location permission on, the app will get a list of BLE devices that are close enough, like 123\SmartBMS.

The app does not use or store the location in any way.

Which relay do you recommend?

This depends on the application. We always recommend a power efficient relay which consumes few energy when turned on.

Recommended relays

Pack voltage Maximum current Relay Note

12V		123\SmartRelay 120A
12V	120A 220A	Victron BatteryProtect 220A	Only one directional currents
24V		123\SmartRelay 120A
24V	120A 220A	Victron BatteryProtect 220A	Only one directional currents
48V		123\PowerSwitch 48V 100A
All voltages		Kilovac EV200	Coil voltage up to 96V

The hole is too small for my bolt. Can I drill the holes bigger?

Yes, the boards are designed so the pole can be drilled bigger if needed.

Indicated currents are not zero while no current is being drawn

Make sure there is running absolutely no current through the current sensors during the zero calibration procedure.

On the Begin Board you will find a blue button. Press and hold the blue button until the LED flashes fast. Now release the button. The calibration is done.

My pack slowly discharges by a small leakage current but the SoC does not change

Very small currents cannot be measured by the current sensor, so the BMS will not update the SoC. Only when one of the cells is below Vmin, the SoC will be recalibrated to 0% because this is a known point to be empty.

Make sure the pack is charged regularly so the SoC is recalibrated to 100% when full.

If you are not going to use the pack for a longer time (for example because it is winter), you can disconnect all loads so the pack will not be drawn until empty. You can also connect a small trickle charger to prevent the batteries from being discharged during standby.

How to control a Victron device with GX in the installation

For all information regarding Victron GX integration, see Victron Integration.

How to control a Victron without any GX

First set the correct absorption voltage. The end/absorption voltage needs to match the battery pack to operate correctly. For example: if you have 4 cells and the balance voltage (Vbalance) is 3.4V, the pack balance voltage is 3.4V x 4 cells = 13.6V. You need to configure the charger to an end/absorption voltage a bit higher (about 0.2V) than this voltage which is 13.8V.

Device with remote signal Many Victron devices have a “remote” or “enable” signal which consists of two wires. As long as the two wires are connected to each other, the device will be enabled. When the signal path is broken, the device will switch to standby mode. This “remote” signal can directly be connected to the SmartBMS signal relay.

For example if you have an inverter with a remote port, you can wire the two remote wires to the Discharge/Load signal relay potential free contacts located on the End Board (last cell board). Use connector pin 1 and 2, which are “allow to charge” and “common contact”.

Victron BlueSolar and SmartSolar MPPT Charge controller Use the Victron VE.Direct non inverting remote on-off cable, part number ASS030550310. With this cable, you can connect the battery to pin 2 (common contact) of the Charge signal relay of the SmartBMS. Connect the Victron yellow remote cable to the SmartBMS Charge contact pin 1 (allow to charge). Also see the Victron document.

Victron without GX or “remote” control If your Victron device does not have a remote control signal and cannot use the VE.Direct non inverting remote on-off cable, you can still connect a power efficient power relay to the BMS so the BMS can switch off the device in case this is needed. See the manual for a general schematic.

How to control a combined charger/inverter

It is possible to use a combined charger/inverter. Just use 1 current sensor and connect this sensor to sensor 1. Make sure to run the current cable the right way through the current sensor. When charging, you should see a positive current in the app next to the battery icon. When discharging, you should see a negative current.

• Combined charger/inverter with two enable/disable signals, one for charger and one for inverter You can keep the BMS in “normal mode” and use the charge relay for the enable/disable signal of the charger and the load relay for the enable/disable signal of the inverter.

• Combined charger/inverter with 1 enable/disable or no enable/disable signal In ”normal mode” the BMS will switch off the charge relay when the battery pack is full. However, this would mean the shared power will be switched off and the user is not able to discharge. For this case the BMS can be configured in “critical mode”. The BMS will only switch the power off in case there is a critical error condition. You can change to Critical Mode at Settings in the app. Connect the charge and load relay of the BMS in series to get a combined charge/load signal. Now you can switch a power relay or the enable/disable signal of the device.The charger/inverter bulk/end/absorption voltage needs to match the battery pack to operate correctly. For example: if you have 4 cells and the balance voltage (Vbalance) is 3.4V, the pack balance voltage is 3.4V x 4 cells = 13.6V. You need to configure the charger to a bulk/end voltage a bit higher (about 0.025V-0.04V higher per cell) than this voltage which is 13.8V. For 16 LiFePO4 cells, this is 54.8V-55.0V.

How to wire the 123PowerSwitch

The 123\PowerSwitch can be used to switch off one or more loads/chargers and can be controlled by the 123\SmartBMS.

There are two configurations possible:

Use one 123\PowerSwitch for the whole installation In this configuration, the 123\PowerSwitch will be used as “last line of defense”. When a cell has an error, for example when a cell voltage is too high or too low, the PowerSwitch will be turned off and thus all connected chargers and loads will be disconnected from the battery. When the error is gone, the PowerSwitch turns on again.

This configuration is mostly used with combined chargers/inverters which is a setup where the charger and inverter are in the same device like the Victron Quattro/Multiplus.

Connect the 123\PowerSwitch black control wire (negative) to the battery pack negative. Connect the 123\PowerSwitch red control wire to the “common contact” of the End Board Charge signal relay potential free contacts. Connect the End Board Charge signal relay “allowed to charge” to the Load signal relay “allowed to discharge”. Connect the End Board Load signal relay “common contact” to the battery pack

Use two 123\PowerSwitches: one for all chargers and one for all loads/inverters The benefit of this configuration is that when one PowerSwitch is off, for example the “allowed to discharge”, the other PowerSwitch (“allowed to charge”) stays on. Thus if a battery cell is empty, the charger will stay connected to charge the pack.

Connect a wire from the battery pack to the “common contact” (middle hole) of the Load signal relay and to the Charge signal relay. Connect the 123\PowerSwitch black control wire (negative) of both PowerSwitches to the battery pack negative. Connect the End Board Charge signal relay “allowed to charge” pin to the charge 123\PowerSwitch red control wire. Connect the End Board Load signal relay “allowed to discharge” pin to the discharge 123\PowerSwitch red control wire.

How to wire the Victron BatteryProtect

The Victron BatteryProtect can be used to switch off one or more loads/inverters and can be controlled by the 123\SmartBMS.

Connect the BatteryProtect Remote wire 1 to SmartBMS End Board Load relay “common contact” (pin 2). Connect the BatteryProtect Remote wire 2 to SmartBMS End Board Load relay “allow to discharge” (pin 3). When discharging is allowed, Remote pin 1 and Remote pin 2 are connected to each other to let the BatteryProtect know charging is allowed.

How To Test CR123A Lithium Batteries? | All You Need To Know

Ann Hutchinson is the heart of the team, senior editor and our Head of Product Reviews which means she sets the testing parameters of each group review ensuring that tests resemble everyday use.

There are several ways to test and find reliable CR123A batteries. For instance, you can use a multimeter to check the internal resistance and voltage fluctuations of the battery. Voltage drops are usually an indicator of poor-quality CR123A batteries.

Nowadays, CR123A batteries have become a popular source of power for operating home appliances and devices.

However, the quality of a battery can differ from one brand to another, which makes it hard to determine which battery is ideal for your home appliances. over, several factors, such as internal resistances, voltage, and others, determine the quality of a good battery.

Hence, we have compiled this guide to help you test and find high-quality and reliable batteries.

What Is A CR123A Battery?

In simple terms, a CR123A battery is a cylindrical cell that relies on lithium chemistry to produce energy for home appliances. When it comes to shape, it shares the same resemblance to a C-cell battery since it is small and compact.

over, these batteries can be used for all types of applications. For example, you can use them to power both military-grade technology as well as medical appliances. Since these batteries are so widely in demand, they are usually hard to stock due to their limited availability.

Some of the top brands that manufacture these batteries are Duracell, Panasonic, and Energizer. In fact, some brands offer a charger with a rechargeable battery which makes it convenient since you can use the battery for a long period.

However, you must be very careful while storing non-rechargeable batteries since they discharge quickly. Ideally, you should avoid hot places since they damage the cell and cause the battery to discharge faster.

Most manufacturers provide clear instructions regarding storing the excess batteries in a cool and dry space since it prevents the batteries from discharging quickly. As such, the batteries can last for a long period. You can buy CR123A batteries from a local hardware store or a nearby convenience store.

How To Test CR123A Lithium Batteries?

When it comes to checking the quality of CR123A batteries, there are several ways of testing them. In this section, we shall explore some of the common methods of testing CR123A batteries:

Capacity And Shelf Life

Basically, one of the best ways to check the quality of CR123A lithium-ion batteries is by checking the capacity. Batteries with high capacities are usually a good indicator of high battery performance since they have a slow discharge rate. This makes them last longer than other batteries that have low capacities.

Batteries with a good shelf life are another way of checking the quality and performance. If a battery has a short shelf life, it clearly indicates that it discharges faster. As such, it wouldn’t be helpful if you store batteries with short shelf life.

The Torch Test

Another way of testing the quality of different CR123A batteries is by performing a torch test. Simply take three batteries from different brands and place them in three individual torches. If a torch shines more brightly than the other two, it clearly suggests that the battery within the brighter torch delivers higher performance.

Also, if certain torches experience flickering during the test, then there is a high chance that the batteries are discharging quickly or experiencing higher voltage fluctuations. Sometimes, you might notice the torch reaching a high temperature since the battery is overheating. In such a situation, we recommend turning off the torch to prevent further increase in temperature, or else it can cause an explosion.

If the torch refuses to turn on after multiple attempts to switch it on, it signifies that the battery is dead. Consequently, the cell doesn’t have any charge to power the device.

Multimeter Test

This test is mostly used by professionals in the electrical and engineering field since they use this device for various purposes. However, you can easily find this device in a local hardware store, and they are affordable.

For this test, you need to take a fully recharged battery and place it between the two ends of the two receptors of the multimeter. If the battery doesn’t display any power while not being in load, it indicates that the battery is dead. On the other hand, if you notice readings on the multimeter, the battery is in optimum working condition.

But you should be careful since the battery can display higher voltages sometimes. This usually happens when the battery provides power without any load. Once you place the battery in a home appliance, it will display normal voltage reading. You can also use the multimeter to check if the internal resistance of the battery is performing the task optimally by preventing short circuits.

Are All CR123A Batteries Rechargeable?

In general, cr123 batteries are primary batteries that are designed to be disposed of once they have died out completely. As such, attempting to recharge a CR123A battery can be dangerous since it can explode and cause severe damage to your property and yourself.

On the contrary, some brands design CR123A batteries with different chemistries. This allows the users to recharge the batteries and use them repeatedly. However, only a few brands can design such batteries, and the stock is very limited. Thus, you should always check the packaging to see if you can recharge CR123A lithium batteries or not.

How To Test CR123A Lithium Batteries Conclusion

Like any perishable good, batteries have a limited life span, and the quality of the cell decreases over the years. Nevertheless, you can always opt for rechargeable CR123A batteries since they last much longer.

On the other hand, you can preserve the quality of the battery by following the storage instructions given by the manufacturer. For instance, fresh batteries should be stored in a cool and dry place since extreme heat can damage the cells and cause the batteries to discharge faster.

If you are storing fully charged rechargeable batteries, you should check them once in a while to see if there are any voltage drops. Besides, you can purchase a multimeter to test the quality of the batteries from time to time.

With that, we have reached the end of this guide, and we hope you found it informative. Stay safe, and see you next time!

RAVPower CR123A 3V Lithium Battery

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Can I redeem multiple discount codes? No. Discount codes cannot be combined.Only one code can be applied per order.

Why is my discount code invalid? 1) The discount code is not applicable to the specific items you want to buy 2) The discount code wasn’t entered correctly 3) The discount code has expired 4) The discount code is not from Ravpower’s official website

Description

NOTE: Batteries Can Not Be Recharged!

Long-Lasting Reliable PowerEach battery houses an impressive 1,500mAh capacity with low internal resistance. This ensures you can efficiently power your equipment for an extended period of time. Save the trouble of changing batteries for years to come.

Supports Most AppliancesInvest in a pack of RAVPower CR123A Batteries that can be used to power everyday appliances with the capacity of 1500mAh / 3.0V (4.5Wh). Pair it up with your Polaroid, Arlo cameras, flashlights, microphones, and most household medical equipment to be prepared for any emergencies. Replace CR123, DL123A, K123A, EL123AP, 5018LC, CR17345 and CR17335 with 3V voltage; Replace RCR123A, RCR17335, VL123A and ML123A with 3.7V voltage.

Superior Performance in Any WeatherBenefit from unconditional convenience and consistent performance in either freezing Arctic conditions or a scorching desert. Our batteries can beat the most extreme weather ranging from.40°C to 85°C /.49°F to 185°F.

Up to 10 Year Shelf LifePremium low self-discharge mechanism keeps for nearly 10 years of idleness without draining the battery. Never get stuck ever again because of a dead battery.

Greener and SaferEnvironment-friendly Li-ion batteries are your first step to a greener world. Containing no harmful chemicals, RAVPower batteries are guarded with short circuit, over current, and voltage surge Smart protections that are gentler to the earth and safer for you.

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Last updated March 25, 2022 Delivery times may be longer than usual due to the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe. For any questions, please contact our customer service via the pop-up window on the page.

Shipping Orders

Normally orders will ship within 2-7 business days of processing payment, unless particularly noted elsewhere on the website, at the time order is placed, or you receive an email notice that an item in your order has been delayed. Any expected delivery dates that may be given are only estimates. Orders can be delayed due to verification or the time the order has been placed. Orders may be delivered in separate shipments. All purchases through Taotronics.com are made pursuant to a shipment contract. This means that the risk of loss and title for such items pass to you upon tender of the item to the carrier.

Delivery Address

A complete and correct delivery address is essential. Once your order has been prepared for shipment or has shipped, we are unable to change the shipping address. If a package is returned to us due to an incorrect or incomplete address provided by you (the customer) or your agent, we will contact you immediately for a correction, and the package will be re-shipped at an additional shipping fee. You must include a daytime telephone number for all orders. Occasionally packages are returned to Taotronics as undeliverable. When the carrier returns an undeliverable package to Taotronics, please contact Taotronics to make arrangements for reshipment.

The 7 continental U.S. states will not serve at this time (Last updated Nov 25, 2020. )::

Armed Forces. Americas Alaska Guam Hawaii Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico U.S. Virgin Islands Check back as we expand to more regions.

Shipping Hubs

Orders for The United States: Most Taotronics.com orders will be processed by Amazon, and shipped directly from Amazon distribution center in California.

Delivery Times

When you place an order on the Taotronics website, you will receive a shipping info email from Amazon and/or one from the website. Please check your registered email inbox for your order status. Additionally, you can check the shipping info through My Account. Order History after you log in to our website.

Standard Shipping

Products shipped via standard service are normally delivered within 3-5 business days after receiving the order.

What Is A CR123A Battery? (Basics Comparisons)

Batteries come in various shapes, sizes, and even compositions that allow you to use them in certain applications. Understanding these differences ensures you use the right batteries for your valuable electronics, and it can help you make a better choice in power supply.

While CR123A batteries are a popular type of battery and easy to find, there are some key differences that set them apart from other types of batteries. These affect best use, and using the wrong battery can even lead to disaster.

In this article, we explain the basics behind CR123A batteries and compare them to similar batteries.

CR123A Battery Basics

When you’re looking at batteries, there are a few key characteristics that help you distinguish them from other battery types.

• Size
• Nominal voltage
• Capacity
• Chemical composition
• Shelf life

These affect what type of devices and systems these batteries work best in and help you separate them from similar batteries.

Size and Appearance

Different size batteries are the most obvious indication of differing specifications.

CR123A batteries have a cylindrical shape with the following dimensions:

They’re slightly thicker and shorter than popular AA (14.5 mm x 50.5 mm) or AAA (10.5 mm x 44.5 mm) batteries. Similarly, they have different labels depending on the brand of the battery (i.e. Energizer batteries are usually white with blue writing).

Most CR123A batteries come in even sets, ranging from 2 to bulk sets of 12 or more.

Nominal Voltage

CR123A batteries have a nominal voltage of 3.0 volts.

This number refers to the voltage at which the battery is intended to use, and it may differ from the actual voltage of the battery. While most CR123A batteries should test around this number, it may be a bit higher or lower (especially with cousin battery types).

The voltage also differs depending on the condition of the battery (but more on that later).

Capacity

The capacity of a CR123A battery is around 1,500 mAh. Battery capacity is measured in Amp hours, and it refers to what discharge current of the battery could be drawn for an hour.

Keep in mind that this is a general capacity. While voltage is a standard of the battery type, capacity changes depending on the quality of the battery (usually when switching brands) and its condition.

Similar battery types may have smaller or larger capacities.

Chemical Composition

CR123A batteries are lithium manganese dioxide (LiMnO2) batteries. Not all li-ion batteries should be lumped together, but they share some characteristics with other lithium batteries.

CR123A batteries use lithium as the anode, and then a liquid electrolyte with manganese dioxide as a solid cathode.

This combination provides a lightweight composition and powerful battery technology. They’re incredibly energy dense, reliable, and have higher potential over a greater temperature range.

Shelf Life and Usage Life

The shelf life of a CR123A battery is different from its expected usage length (which relates to the capacity of the battery.

Most CR123A batteries can sit on a shelf for 10 years before you need to use them up. This is why they’re a common choice for emergency equipment, such as flashlights, that you may not use on a regular basis.

Their lifespan while in use depends on the battery’s capacity, the nature of the work, and how often they’re used. For example, a weapon light used regularly for training may not break a month, while a security system panel can run off the battery for over a year without issue.

Most Common Applications

CR123A batteries are used in plenty of small electronic devices, such as:

While any small device may call for them, their reliable performance and high capacity make them integral to the operation of security equipment, including security alarm systems, that operate on wireless networks.

They’re not expensive, but they’re an excellent choice for professional photography equipment or any other higher-tier needs. You’ll see these batteries used often for emergency equipment because of their durable nature, capacity, and preferred voltage.

Safety

CR123A batteries carry the same safety concerns as all other batteries.

They should not be damaged or disassembled, and such batteries should be discarded. Any changes in battery structure affect the operation and can lead to high temperatures or short circuits that may evolve into fires.

advanced designs, such as rechargeable models, usually have small electron circuits in them that increase the safety of the battery and prevent these issues and more. This contributes to their lower capacity, but it’s an essential trade off.

Is There a Difference Between CR123A and CR123 Batteries?

You may see CR123 battery labels instead of CR123A. The lack of the letter “A” doesn’t change the battery specifications. Some manufacturers simply drop the letter at the end, but they’re exactly the same.

Other names you may see include:

• CR17345
• K123A
• RCR16340
• VL123A
• DL123A
• 5017LC
• SF123A
• EL123AP
• 17345
• 17340
• 16340

It’s suggested you double or even triple check your battery choice before swapping to a different name. The letter and number combinations are easy to mix up, so verify voltage before installing and using your battery.

CR123A vs. RCR123A Batteries

One battery that appears similar to CR123A batteries but is slightly different are the rechargeable RCR123A batteries. While they are intended as a rechargeable replacement, there are enough differences to matter.

Details such as voltage, capacity, and shelf life affect how they can be used. In some cases, the rechargeable option may damage your device or prove inefficient compared to a standard CR123A battery.

Voltage

Non-rechargeable CR123A batteries have a lower nominal voltage than the rechargeable variety. The difference isn’t that great (RCR123A batteries sit around 3.7 volts), but it can be an issue for more sensitive electronic equipment.

It’s important to double check any constraints on your electronics before popping in the higher voltage. Cameras or security equipment may not do well with the difference.

Capacity

CR123A batteries have a higher capacity than their rechargeable cousins, which hold ½ or ⅓ as much. While high-capacity RCR123A batteries exist, they usually have a lower maximum drain current that affects performance.

The lower capacity allows the rechargeable batteries to accommodate stringent security measures that prevent issues like overcharging or short circuiting.

These batteries FOCUS more on short-term, frequent use. You get more use out of them if you expect to go through the estimated 1,000 to 2,000 charging cycles.

Shelf Life

Rechargeable batteries have a shorter shelf life. They lose anywhere between 10 and 30 percent of their initial charge after a single year of storage, and it only goes down from there.

This may not seem like much, but it’s quite a bit compared to CR123A batteries that still hold strong after a decade in storage. Rechargeable batteries may make sense economically when used consistently, but they aren’t doing any favors hanging out in the reserves.

Initial Charge

RCR123A batteries are also a poor choice for an emergency purchase at the store. They can only be manufactured and transported at half charge, so you need to charge them completely before you use them the first time.

Standard CR123A batteries come at full capacity, so they’re ready to pop in and get to work the moment you wrangle them out of their packaging. This makes them the most reliable operation for emergency power.

Uses

We’ve already explained the general uses for regular CR123A batteries, and rechargeable batteries can fit in and operate all of those devices. That doesn’t mean they’re well suited for that task.

Rechargeable batteries are better for commonly used devices, such as:

• Digital cameras (that can handle the voltage)
• Children’s toys
• Remote controls
• Flashlights (regularly used–not emergency lights)

You should avoid them for more integral systems, such as smoke alarms, security systems, or emergency devices. There’s always a chance they’ll drop their charge when you need the device the most, and they’re not a reliable backup.

Where to Buy CR123A Batteries

You can purchase CR123A batteries anywhere you purchase other batteries. The most common places include:

This type of battery is popular enough that it should be readily available on the shelf. Keep in mind if you order them online, you should check reviews to verify the battery is not a counterfeit that may damage your device or provide insufficient voltage.

If buying rechargeable batteries, make sure you use the charger designated for those batteries. Charging performance differs from brand to brand, and you should never attempt to recharge standard batteries.

Conclusion

CR123A batteries are popular for a reason, and many electronics call for this specific battery type for power. You have some similar alternatives to work with, but the difference in chemistry or voltage may make one better or safer than the other.

Make sure you only use CR123A or suitable alternatives in devices that call for them. Using other batteries alongside tin foil or other extenders is not only dangerous but inefficient.

Comment on what you use CR123A batteries for in your daily life!

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