The CR123A (CR17335) Li-MnO₂ battery is one of the most versatile formats in the CR primary lithium battery family. With a diameter of approximately 17 mm and a height of 33.5 mm, it delivers a useful balance between compact dimensions, available energy, and high-current performance.
Unlike primary cells designed mainly for very low continuous loads, the CR123A is particularly well suited to equipment that combines standby operation with periods of much higher power demand. Wireless communication, motor actuation, alarms, high-output LEDs, and data transmission can all create short current peaks that place greater demands on the battery. The Li-MnO₂ chemistry and CR123A form factor make it a practical choice for these more active electronic systems.
Its 3.0V nominal voltage, high energy density, long storage capability, and high-rate discharge performance allow equipment designers to achieve useful operating life without requiring an oversized battery compartment. Multiple cells can also be configured in series or parallel when an application requires higher operating voltage, additional capacity, or greater power capability.
Typical Applications
Wireless Safety & Alarm Devices
Suitable for wireless smoke detectors, CO detectors, intrusion alarms, door/window sensors, and selected long-life alarm systems where compact primary lithium power is required.
Smart Home Security
Used in electronic smart locks, fingerprint locks, keypad locks, hotel locking systems, PIR motion sensors, electronic safes, and other wireless security products.
GPS & Tracking Equipment
A practical power source for GPS trackers and wireless positioning devices that spend significant periods in standby but periodically activate positioning and communication functions.
Professional Lighting
Commonly applied in high-lumen flashlights, headlamps, diving lights, emergency lighting equipment, and outdoor camping lights where a compact battery must support relatively high discharge currents.
Smart Metering & Wireless Gateways
Can be considered for selected smart water meters, gas meters, communication gateways, and Zigbee or Z-Wave devices with more frequent wireless communication or higher instantaneous power demand.
Medical & Emergency Electronics
The CR123A format can also be used in selected professional and emergency electronic equipment where high power output, compact dimensions, and long storage readiness are important, subject to qualification for the specific device.
Key Characteristics
- Li-MnO₂ primary lithium chemistry
- Nominal voltage: 3.0V
- Compact 17 × 33.5 mm cylindrical format
- High energy density
- Strong high-rate and pulse discharge capability
- Long shelf-life characteristics
- Suitable for standby-plus-pulse operating profiles
- Available for multi-cell battery pack configurations
For OEM applications, the CR123A can be evaluated according to the device’s continuous current, pulse current, operating cycle, storage requirement, installation space, connection method, and expected service life before the final battery configuration is defined.