A lithium CR1/3N battery is a 3V non-rechargeable lithium manganese dioxide coin cell, commonly used in small electronics like cameras, calculators, and medical devices. It provides stable voltage, long shelf life (up to 10 years), and operates in temperatures from -30°C to 60°C. Its compact size (11.6mm diameter x 10.8mm height) makes it ideal for space-constrained applications.
How Does a Lithium CR1/3N Battery Differ From Other Coin Cells?
The CR1/3N has a unique 11.6×10.8mm cylindrical design, distinguishing it from flatter cells like CR2032. It delivers 160-170mAh capacity at 3V, outperforming alkaline equivalents in cold environments. Unlike rechargeable Li-ion cells, it’s a single-use primary battery with a hermetic seal to prevent electrolyte leakage, making it safer for implantable medical devices.
What Devices Commonly Use CR1/3N Batteries?
This battery powers photoflash circuits in SLR cameras, backup memory in automotive key fobs, digital thermometers, glucometers, and hearing aids. Industrial applications include IoT sensors, emergency lighting systems, and electronic shelf labels. Nikon F6 film cameras and certain Casio calculators specifically require CR1/3N due to its voltage stability during burst-mode operations.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
|
Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
|
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
Recent advancements in miniaturized medical devices have expanded CR1/3N applications to include wireless patient monitors and smart pill dispensers. The battery’s ability to maintain 3V output until 95% discharge makes it ideal for precision instruments like digital manometers and optical calibration tools. In consumer electronics, luxury watches from brands like Seiko and Citizen utilize CR1/3N for their moon phase complications and alarm functions. Aerospace applications include powering cockpit emergency locator transmitters, where the battery’s -40°C cold-start capability proves critical.
When Should You Replace a CR1/3N Battery?
Replace when devices show low-power warnings or every 3-5 years in continuous-use scenarios. In critical medical devices like glucose monitors, proactive replacement every 2 years is recommended. Use a multimeter to test voltage – below 2.5V indicates depletion. Look for capacity fade symptoms like slower camera recycling times or calculator display dimming.
Why Choose Lithium Chemistry for CR1/3N Batteries?
Lithium manganese dioxide (Li-MnO₂) chemistry provides 30% higher energy density than alkaline variants. The chemistry enables operation at extreme temperatures (-30°C to 60°C) with less than 0.5% annual self-discharge. Lithium’s electrochemical potential (3V) remains stable throughout discharge, unlike zinc-based batteries that gradually lose voltage.
The lithium anode’s low equivalent weight enables high specific energy (280 Wh/kg), while the manganese dioxide cathode offers excellent conductivity. This combination minimizes voltage sag under high pulse loads up to 15mA, crucial for camera flash units. Compared to silver oxide batteries, Li-MnO₂ cells demonstrate superior performance in low-humidity environments and reduced risk of mercury contamination. Recent developments in separator technology have enhanced safety parameters, allowing CR1/3N batteries to pass stringent UL1642 testing for short-circuit protection.
How to Safely Handle and Dispose of CR1/3N Batteries?
Use insulated tweezers during installation to prevent short-circuiting. Never attempt to recharge – internal pressure buildup could cause rupture. Dispose through certified e-waste recyclers; the manganese dioxide content requires special processing. In EU countries, compliance with Battery Directive 2006/66/EC mandates retailer take-back programs for proper disposal.
What Are the Technical Specifications of CR1/3N?
| Parameter | Value | Testing Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal Voltage | 3V DC ±0.2V | IEC 60086-2 |
| Capacity | 160mAh | 15kΩ discharge at 20°C |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +60°C | MIL-STD-810G |
Which Brands Manufacture Reliable CR1/3N Batteries?
| Manufacturer | Model Number | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Panasonic | BR1/3N | Medical-grade sealing |
| Energizer | CR1/3N | Military temperature range |
| Tadiran | TL-5101 | 25-year shelf life |
“The CR1/3N’s combination of high energy density and stable discharge curve makes it indispensable in medical telemetry systems. Recent advances in cathode material engineering have pushed shelf life beyond 12 years while maintaining strict safety standards for implantable applications.” – Dr. Elena Voss, Power Systems Engineer at Medtronic
FAQs
- Can I use CR1/3N instead of CR1/3V?
- No – CR1/3V indicates a 3V vanadium pentoxide chemistry with different discharge characteristics. Always match the exact battery type specified in device manuals.
- How to store unused CR1/3N batteries?
- Keep in original packaging at 15-25°C with <50% humidity. Avoid refrigeration - condensation during temperature cycling can damage seals.
- Are CR1/3N batteries allowed on planes?
- Yes under IATA PI 967 Section II: ≤2g lithium content (CR1/3N contains 0.6g) permits carry-on without quantity restrictions. For checked baggage, devices must be protected from activation.