The CR2 (CR15270) Li-MnO₂ battery is built for devices that cannot rely on low-drain performance alone.
Originally associated with photographic equipment, the CR2 format remains valuable because it can deliver relatively high current from a compact cylindrical cell. This makes it a practical power source for modern electronics that spend part of their time in standby but must react quickly when a motor, sensor, optical module, wireless transmitter, or high-output LED is activated.
With an approximate size of 15 mm in diameter and 27 mm in height, CR2 offers a useful combination of compactness, 3.0V output, and pulse capability for portable and space-conscious designs.
Strong Pulse Response in a Compact Cell
Many devices operate with modest average power consumption but create short periods of much higher demand.
A smart lock may need extra current when actuating its locking mechanism. A laser rangefinder must briefly power optical and measurement circuitry. A portable light may draw substantially more current when switched to a high-output mode.
CR2 is suited to these operating profiles because its Li-MnO₂ chemistry can support short-duration power demand while remaining compact enough for handheld or embedded products.
Designed for Fast-Response Electronics
The value of CR2 is not simply its stored energy, but how that energy can be delivered when the device becomes active.
This makes it especially relevant to products that require immediate electrical response after long standby periods, including security sensors, electronic locks, optical instruments, tracking devices, and portable electronic tools.
For OEM selection, pulse current and pulse duration should be evaluated together with the device’s standby consumption and expected operating frequency.
Typical Applications
Smart Home Security
Suitable for electronic smart locks, fingerprint locks, keypad locks, PIR motion sensors, and other wireless security devices that periodically activate sensing, communication, or mechanical functions.
Photography & Optical Equipment
Used in selected instant cameras, compact photographic equipment, laser rangefinders, golf distance meters, and surveying instruments where fast power delivery is required in a portable format.
Portable Lighting & Instruments
Applicable to compact high-output flashlights, portable testing instruments, water-quality meters, and other handheld devices that experience intermittent higher-current operation.
Pet Electronics
Can support electronic training or anti-bark collars, pet GPS trackers, and other compact pet devices combining standby operation with periodic wireless or active functions.
Key Characteristics
- Li-MnO₂ primary lithium chemistry
- Nominal voltage: 3.0V
- Approximate dimensions: 15 × 27 mm
- Compact cylindrical construction
- Strong pulse and high-rate discharge capability
- Suitable for intermittent high-current operation
- Long shelf-life characteristics
- Well suited to portable and wireless electronics
- Practical for devices combining standby and active power modes
Evaluating CR2 for an OEM Device
CR2 is best assessed against the device’s real operating cycle rather than average current alone.
Important parameters include standby current, peak current, pulse duration, activation frequency, operating temperature, cutoff voltage, required service life, and available installation space. For products containing motors, wireless modules, optical systems, or high-output LEDs, these peak-load conditions are especially important when defining the final battery choice.