Battery links
Watch batteries
Watch batteries are among the most long-lasting of batteries. Although they generally cannot be charged up like rechargeable batteries, the low discharge means they can last for years if used properly.
While they are used primarily in watches, these batteries can also be known as button batteries and are often found in:
- Pocket calculators.
- Hearing aids.
- PDAs.
- LED lights.
- Electronic toys.
Like all batteries, watch batteries need to be handled correctly if you are to get the most use from them. This means you shouldn't:
- Damage the casing.
- Allow the battery to overheat.
- Recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
Some rechargeable watch batteries are available, but they are not commonly used. This is because standard watch batteries have a very long shelf life and rechargeables often have a lower capacity.
Watch batteries producers
There are many different watch battery producers, who carry out manufacturing and research into button batteries.
Some of the most popular brands of watch battery include:
And it isn't just watch batteries you will find from these companies. AA batteries, AAA batteries, 12 volt batteries and many more are also available.
Whichever battery is right depends on the appliance, as trying to use the wrong ones could damage the battery.
Watch battery coding
Watch batteries often have a code along the front which gives some information about the voltage and make-up of the battery.
For example, the first letter on a watch battery means it is made using the following:
- L - Manganese dioxide.
- S - Silver oxide.
- P - Oxygen.
- C - Manganese dioxide.
- B - Carbon monofluoride.
- G - Copper oxide.
The rest of the code shows the name of the manufacturer, the polarity of the battery and the date it was made.
This helps ensure you are always using fresh watch batteries, although they do have the potential to last for years.
