There is typically no significant difference between the voltage on the two battery types. Chemistry

Both batteries can support high performance devices, including those that require occasional discharges of high power output like digital cameras with flashes and high tech LED torches. Duracell DL-123 cylindrical batteries have a maximum height of 34.5 millimetres, a diameter of 17 millimetres and a typical weight of 17.0 grammes. They are suitable as direct replacements for size codes 5018LC, CR123A and CR17345. It’s safe to say the only major difference between the two is the letter A. When you compare their functionality, performance, lifespan and chemistry, the two are essentially one and the same thing. Both types of batteries use a lithium-based salt as an electrolyte with a Lithium and Manganese dioxide ( LiMnO2) chemical system. The cathode (positive terminal) is made of heat-treated manganese dioxide on both types of cells. Both standard 123s and 123As come with a nominal voltage of 3 volts. Their standard loaded voltage typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 volts.Both 123s and 123As come with PTC (Pressure, Temperature, Current) protection which disconnects the circuit if the current gets too high. Note: Wh (watt-hour) is a unit that measures the energy density of the battery. Wh per kg or litre measures the battery energy per unit of mass or volume respectively. Safety are generally longer and thinner than 123As. However, the difference is not more than 0.55 mm in either direction. The dimensions are usually slightly different with each manufacturer, making it hard to tell the two apart.

The difference in dimensions is so insignificant that both batteries can be used interchangeably in all devices. Frequently Asked Questions What does the CR stand for? CR123 and CR123A batteries are lithium-based batteries that work great for small–high output devices like cameras, light meters, smart home devices, high tech torches, tactical equipment and other battery-powered devices. When using them in your devices, they are both long lasting. The exact life span depends on the gadget and the manufacturer. For example, they can last for up to five years in an alarm system.It won’t damage your device if you do; however, a rechargeable and non rechargeable batteries may have different voltages and capacities. Also, the dimensions may be slightly different. The C denotes Lithium, and R means the batteries are round. The numbers that follow describe the size of the battery. 123A stands for one battery that’s two-thirds the size of a standard A battery. Some manufacturers simply omit the A at the end. Can I Use Rechargeable and Non-Rechargeable CR123A Batteries Interchangeably? The chemical system works in the exact same way, giving a high energy density per mass (280 Wh/kg) and per volume (580 Wh/litre). CR123s are small, 3V high-powered lithium batteries. They’re designed for use in small gadgets like alarms, flashlights, cameras and other household electronics. Is there really any difference between the two lithium batteries? Let’s take a look at a few metrics for comparison. Size

The prefix CR is used by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to show that the battery uses lithium chemistry, specifically LiMnO2 (Lithium-Ion Manganese Oxide). In simple terms, both cells have a high potential to push electric current through the device, especially given their small size. Both batteries have a similar shelf life of up to 10 years before use when stored at a temperature of less than 60°C Compared to alkaline AA batteries (average length of 44 mm), they are both significantly shorter but give twice as much voltage. You can get 6V from two CR123’s that cover a way shorter configuration than 3V from two AAs. Life Span In terms of their specs, all 123As have the same basic capabilities. However, each manufacturer may add different features and aesthetics to differentiate their products.

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