Characteristics of LR44 batteries
In everyday life, we are surrounded by many household appliances. Many of them use electric current to operate, and small equipment requires special power supplies - batteries.
In miniature devices, small batteries similar to tablets are used for this. Manufacturers produce a wide variety of options. One of the most common is a battery with the “mysterious” marking LR44.
Let's take a closer look at this miniature current source, find out its distinctive characteristics and operating conditions.
The content of the article
What is an LR44 battery, its characteristics
The “great-grandmother” of our battery was released in the early 60s of the twentieth century. Given its miniature size, LR44 was mainly used in wristwatches and small hearing aids.
Reference. The American giants Duracell and Energazer were the first to launch production of LR44.
The main distinguishing features are the small size and shape of the battery:
- Dimensions - 11.6x4.5 mm. Weight: 0.03 g.
- Form. The current source is a small flat cylindrical circle. It can be described in two words: round and flattened. Its appearance resembles a tablet, which is why it is so often called.On the top of the product there is a corresponding marking - battery brand - 0.0% HG, which indicates the absence of mercury. There is also a “+” icon located here, indicating a positive terminal. The underside is smooth and glossy.
Technical characteristics of LR44:
- The device capacity is 146 mAh.
- Voltage - 1.6 V.
- The electrolyte used may be lithium or alkaline.
- Current strength - 0.22 A.
- Weight - 2 g.
The battery is enclosed in a steel capsule consisting of two halves. Between them there is an insulating ring made of plastic. It prevents short circuits and possible leakage of electrolyte.
The front part is the cathode, as indicated by the corresponding marking. A manganese oxide plate is attached to its inner surface.
The bottom part of the device is the anode. It has the shape of a multi-stage lid and also has rounded edges.
Where is the LR44 battery used?
The standard capacity of the miniature current source is 110 mAh, therefore, it is often used to operate devices with low and uniform power consumption. However, the LR44 battery is also suitable for other household appliances. For example:
- Wall walkers. Depending on the model, they can be equipped with one or two batteries.
- Wrist watch. Initially, LR44s were intended specifically for them, which is why they are often called sentries.
- Laser pointer. It holds two batteries. The product will operate at maximum power for about an hour, after which the intensity of the light beam will decrease.
- Energy-intensive devices. Depending on the technique used, you can use from 4 to 6 pieces. For example, the Russian battery “Era - 4LR44” is perfect for a car alarm key fob.To do this, 4 current sources should be installed in its body. This will give the required output voltage of 6 V.
- Kids toys. If they can not only glow, but also move, the current source will last for one hour.
They can also be found in the following devices:
- calculator;
- small flashlights;
- remote controls;
- electronic devices for measuring body temperature;
- video and photo cameras;
- radios;
- fire safety systems;
- smart bracelets.
Can LR44 be charged?
The LR44 is not a battery, so it cannot be recharged. But there are some “Kulibins” who claim that if you heat up the battery, it can be used again. They also advise using homemade chargers for this.
Reference. We do not recommend using the advice of folk “craftsmen”. When heated, the battery may rupture and explode, causing injury.
What to look for when purchasing
When choosing a suitable battery option, many take into account only its size. However, other characteristics of the device also deserve attention:
- Best before date. This is an important parameter on which the service life depends. Before purchasing, look at the manufacturing date. Even if the power source has been stored in a cold place for a long time, this will reduce its service life.
- Manufacturer. Preference should be given to proven brands. Large brands monitor the quality of their products, so their products will last you longer. And their work will not cause any complaints.
- Energy intensity. The power supply option must match the device for which it is purchased.For example, for “gluttonous” equipment, you should choose expensive batteries with a long service life.
Analogs LR44
Batteries from different manufacturers may have different markings. However, they will have similar characteristics and dimensions.
So, on sale you can find the following options that can replace the LR44:
- AG 13. Current sources from the Seiko brand, as well as from Videx and SmartBuy, have this marking.
- G13. Found in Camelion, Hyundai assortment.
- V13GA. The designation is applied by a large manufacturer of car batteries, Varta.
- A76. This is how the element is designated by the Chinese company GP.
If the choice of power source is in doubt, take the device with you and select a suitable model in the store. It is also worth considering the manufacturer’s recommendations specified in the passport. Externally, many “tablets” are very similar to each other. However, they may have significant differences in a number of technical characteristics.
After a battery has exhausted its life, do not throw it in the trash. The electrolyte contains a variety of chemical compounds that have a negative impact on the environment, the human body and animals. Hand over used products only to specialized collection points or bins designed for the disposal of such waste.