RFPrimary vs. Secondary Batteries: Types and Manufacturers
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This page covers the basics of batteries and their types, specifically primary cell batteries and secondary cell batteries. A list of mobile battery manufacturers is also included.
The voltage requirement for circuits containing semiconductor devices rarely exceeds 30V, and some may only require around 1.5V. Batteries are well-suited for low-power applications in radios, watches, and pocket calculators. For larger and less frequent replacements, power supply units are typically used.
A battery consists of two or more cells connected together to produce a higher voltage, though the term “battery” is sometimes used to refer to a single cell. Batteries are categorized into two types based on their rechargeability.
The image below shows silicon oxide button cell batteries.
Primary Cell Batteries
These batteries are non-rechargeable and are discarded after a limited number of hours of use. They are often referred to as “dry batteries.”
Types of Primary Cell Batteries
The table below summarizes popular types of primary cell batteries, along with their voltages when supplying moderate currents (e.g., 30mA for size AA or U12).
| Primary Cell | Voltage | Property | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | 1.3 | Voltage almost constant until discharged; best for low current applications; large capacity for their size; made as button shape; long shelf life but expensive. | Watch, calculator, camera, hearing aid |
| Silver oxide | 1.5 | Similar to mercury. | Same as mercury. |
| Carbon zinc | 1.5 | Most popular type; voltage drops as current increases; best for low current and frequent use; cheap. | Torch, radio. |
| Alkaline-manganese | 1.5 | Voltage doesn’t drop significantly during use; long shelf life; better for high current applications; life four times longer than carbon zinc battery of the same size; medium price. | Radio, calculator, photographic flash unit. |
Secondary Cell Batteries
Batteries in this category are known as “accumulators.” After discharging, they can be recharged repeatedly by passing current through them in the reverse direction. However, they have a limited recharge lifetime. Secondary cell batteries can supply high current continuously, depending on their capacity.
The capacity of these batteries is measured in Ah (Ampere-hours) for a specified discharge rate. For example, a 30Ah battery can provide a current of 3A for 10 hours or 1A for 30 hours, and so on.
The nickel-cadmium cell is particularly useful due to its steady voltage of 1.2V, making it suitable for electronic equipment. These batteries can be recharged using a constant current power supply, supply high currents, and have a longer lifespan. Button-type secondary cells are commonly used as rechargeable batteries in calculators and electric shavers.
Secondary cell batteries are typically the same size as primary cells but have a higher cost. The image above shows a Samsung mobile battery, which is a rechargeable type.
Mobile Battery Manufacturers
- KONARRK INDUSTRIES
- Nmv International
- Blue Bell Electronics & Technologies
- AR Industries
- Deepak Enterprises
