SR920SW & LR920 Battery Details

LR920 and SR920SW batteries find extensive applications in everyday objects like wristwatches, remote controls, and small electronic devices. These batteries come chiefly in two chemical versions: alkaline and silver oxide.

Catalog

Features and Specifications of LR920/SR920SW Batteries

The LR920/SR920SW battery features specific dimensions: 9.5 mm in diameter and 2.1 mm in height. This compact form factor makes it well-suited for small electronic devices that require reliable power sources. But does the choice between alkaline and silver oxide really matter for all devices? Understanding the differences helps, especially considering energy density and voltage stability.

When comparing the alkaline and silver oxide versions, we see notable differences. The silver oxide variant typically offers a more stable voltage output throughout its discharge cycle. This makes it ideal for devices where consistent performance is essential, such as watches and precision instruments. But why is voltage stability so crucial? Consistency in voltage output ensures the accuracy and reliability of these devices. Imagine the impact on a high-precision instrument if the voltage fluctuated!

Alkaline versions, on the other hand, are often chosen for applications prioritizing cost efficiency. This can be substantial for devices where a little compromise on voltage stability is acceptable. But how much of a compromise is too much? In many everyday devices like toys, where precision is less critical, the lower cost of alkaline batteries becomes attractive.

Users generally select the battery type based on their device's specific requirements. Professional watchmakers, valuing long-lasting and steady power for accurate timekeeping, frequently opt for the silver oxide variant. This decision is driven by the need for precision. Conversely, toy manufacturers might lean towards alkaline batteries due to cost considerations, accepting some compromise on voltage stability.

Chemistry	Silver-Oxide	Alkaline
100% SOC Voltage	1.6 V	1.6 V
Nominal Voltage	1.55 V	1.5 V
Cut-Off Voltage	1.2 V	0.9 V
Notes	Voltage is very constant over time	Voltage significantly drops over time
Typical Labels	SR69, SR920W, SR920SW, SR920PW, SR920, SR921, 171, 370, 371, SG6, AG6	LR69, LR920, LR921, AG6
Typical LR920/SR920SW Capacity	40-55 mAh	25-30 mAh

LR920 Battery Equivalents

Alkaline batteries such as LR69, LR920, and LR921 have some intriguing characteristics. Did you know that these batteries possess a fully charged voltage of approximately 1.6 volts and a nominal voltage of around 1.5 volts? They discharge from 1.5 volts down to roughly 0.9 volts, offering a capacity of about 25-30 mAh. You might wonder, how does this impact their usage? These batteries are viewed as cost-effective and have a shelf life of about 3-6 years, making them fitting for devices with low cutoff voltage requirements.

While LR920 batteries are attractive due to their affordability and decent shelf life, the environmental impact of frequent disposals should also be acknowledged. Isn't it worth considering rechargeable alternatives? Incorporating rechargeables, when feasible, can provide an environmentally friendly approach without compromising performance.

SR920SW Battery Equivalents

The SR69 and SR920SW silver oxide batteries exhibit a full charge voltage of 1.6 volts and a nominal voltage of 1.55 volts. These batteries generally offer a capacity ranging from 40 to 55 mAh. This capacity diminishes as the voltage gradually declines from 1.55 volts to 1.2 volts. Silver oxide batteries typically have a shelf life of 5-10 years, making them especially suited for small electronic devices. They provide a higher voltage and larger capacity, which results in more stable and long-lasting performance, albeit at a higher cost.

A sudden thought—why do these batteries maintain a higher voltage over longer periods? The chemistry of silver oxide batteries inherently supports more stable voltage outputs compared to their alkaline counterparts. This characteristic is paramount for devices requiring consistent voltage flows.

In practical terms, these batteries are often employed in precision instruments such as:

- Wristwatches

- Calculators

The consistent voltage over time is crucial for these devices. For instance, using a 1.55V silver oxide battery in a wristwatch instead of a standard 1.5V alkaline battery can extend the operation period and improve device reliability. This is due to the stable voltage output provided by silver oxide batteries, ensuring the watch keeps accurate time, thereby reducing the need for frequent battery replacements.

What about more critical applications? In medical devices like glucose monitors, the consistent performance of silver oxide batteries ensures reliable readings. This is vital for patient safety, as it guarantees accurate monitoring.

Silver Oxide 9.5 x 2.1 mm Battery Comparison Chart

High Drain SR920S/370 batteries are ideal for applications requiring high drain pulses. They feature a significant self-discharge rate. Conversely, low drain SR926SW/371 batteries are better suited for applications needing constant current. They offer a lower self-discharge rate and a longer shelf life.

Battery Datasheet	Capacity	Operating Temperature	Annual Self-Discharge Rate	Discharge Current
Seiko SR926SW	46 mAh	-10°C to +60°C	-	60μA
Capacity	Operating Temperature	Annual Self-Discharge Rate	Discharge Current
Duracell D370/D371	40 mAh, 30 kΩ down to 1.2V @20°C	0°C to +60°C	<10% @20°C	61.2μA, over 30kΩ @20°C
Energizer 371/370	34 mAh, 33 kΩ down to 1.2V @21°C	-	~2% @20°C	45μA, @1.47V over 33kΩ @21°C
Renata 370 SR920W	40 mAh, 25.5 kΩ down to 1.2V @20°C	-10°C to +60°C	<10% @20°C	61.2μA, over 25.5kΩ @20°C

High Drain Applications

Where do high drain applications find their usage? In high drain scenarios, such as digital watches, medical instruments, and small electronic toys, devices frequently require power spikes. The SR920S/370 battery provides this efficiently, as evidenced by various case studies. Users have consistently reported that these batteries deliver reliable performance, making them an excellent choice in such contexts. Is the self-discharge rate a cause for concern? Despite the significant self-discharge rate, their ability to handle power demands in critical moments proves invaluable.

Low Drain Applications

Why are low drain batteries preferable in certain contexts? Low drain applications typically include analog watches, calculators, and hearing aids, where a steady power supply over extended periods is crucial. Here, the SR926SW/371 battery excels. Real-world experiences have shown these batteries can significantly prolong operational time due to their stable output and long shelf life. How does this stability impact device performance? It ensures a more predictable and reliable user experience, which is often crucial for devices like hearing aids.

Safety Issues with SR920SW/371 and SR920S/370 Batteries

SR920SW/371 and SR920S/370 batteries, despite being free from heavy metals, pose a significant safety risk if ingested.

Ingestion Hazards and Medical Response:

- Severe Electrochemical Burns: Ingestion can result in severe electrochemical burns due to the battery's chemical composition and activity within the gastrointestinal tract.

- Immediate Medical Contact: Immediate contact with emergency medical services is imperative in the event of accidental swallowing.

Industrial Innovations and Safety Measures:

From an industrial perspective, manufacturers are continually striving to improve battery designs. But what are the most effective innovations?

- Child-Resistant Packaging: Innovations such as child-resistant packaging are pivotal.

- Clearer Hazard Warnings: Clearer hazard warnings aim to reduce the likelihood of ingestion, particularly among children.

- Less Reactive Chemistry and Design Adjustments: Some newer battery models incorporate a less reactive chemistry or a physical design that minimizes the risk of severe injury if accidentally swallowed.

SR920SW/371 and SR920S/370 Battery Common Issues

Can the 370 and 371 batteries be interchanged?

One may wonder—can the 370 and 371 batteries truly be interchanged without any significant impact? Generally, they can be, but it's not without consequences. The device's operational time may be shorter because of slight differences in self-discharge rates and energy output characteristics. Take wristwatches as an example: using a 370 battery instead of a 371 might result in more frequent battery replacements, a minor yet bothersome inconvenience for many. Thus, while interchangeability is possible, the performance impact in high-precision devices should not be overlooked.

What battery is equivalent to a 371?

The 371 battery has several equivalents: SR920SW, D371, and V371 batteries. Users often select these equivalents based on availability and brand reputation. For instance, professional watchmakers might opt for Sony or Energizer due to their consistent performance and reliability. This practice highlights the significance of reputation and user reviews when choosing equivalent batteries, ensuring similar voltage and energy output for the optimal functioning of the powered device.

Are SR920SW and SR920W the same?

Though SR920SW and SR920W batteries share the same dimensions, their energy consumption profiles differ. SR920W batteries cater to high-drain devices, delivering more power for energy-hungry applications. Conversely, SR920SW batteries are optimized for low-drain devices, enhancing battery longevity. In practical terms, using an SR920W instead of an SR920SW in simple analog watches can lead to unnecessary power consumption, thereby reducing battery life. This distinction is especially relevant for devices like digital watches with multiple functions versus simpler analog counterparts.

What is the equivalent value of the 371 watch battery?

The 371 watch battery matches SR920SW, D371, and V371 batteries. These equivalents offer similar size, voltage, and capacity attributes, ensuring that substituting one for another does not compromise device function. For instance, in professional environments such as medical equipment maintenance, technicians often prefer these equivalents to avoid malfunctions or inaccuracies, crucial for reliable operation.

Are the 370 and 371 watch batteries the same?

While 370 and 371 watch batteries share identical dimensions, nominal voltage, and capacity, the 370 battery exhibits a slightly higher self-discharge rate. This subtle difference can result in performance variability over long periods. In extensive applications, such as long-term device usage, users may notice a slightly shorter lifespan when opting for a 370 battery over a 371. A nuanced understanding of these distinctions is beneficial for selecting the appropriate battery, especially in sensitive or high-precision devices.

What is the voltage of the 370 battery?

The 370 battery's nominal voltage stands at 1.55 volts, with a cutoff around 1.2 volts. Interestingly, when completely new, a fully charged 370 battery might exhibit an open-circuit voltage up to 1.65 volts. This minor fluctuation in initial voltage can notably influence the performance of high-sensitivity devices. For example, in sophisticated electronic equipment, engineers often account for this initial voltage peak to ensure precise calibration, guaranteeing device functionality from the beginning. Understanding these voltage parameters is fundamental for ensuring compatibility and maximizing device longevity.