Introduction to the VARTA CR123A Lithium Battery and its key features
The VARTA CR123A (also referenced as CR17345) BATT-VARTA-CR123A-R is a professional-grade primary lithium cell designed to deliver reliable, long-lasting power for devices that require a compact 3.0 V source. With a nominal capacity of 1.3 Ah (1300 mAh) and the familiar CR123A form factor (16 × 34 mm), this lightweight (≈17 g) cell is commonly supplied in single-blister packs for end users or in larger installer/distributor boxes for professional fitters. Importantly for security professionals, this cell is validated by Pyronix for use in Enforcer wireless detectors, contacts and smoke sensors, making it a go-to replacement battery for many alarm and monitoring installations.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
At the heart of the VARTA CR123A’s appeal is its electrical profile: a nominal voltage of 3.0 V and a rated capacity of 1.3 Ah (1300 mAh). For single-use primary cells this combination delivers a high energy density that supports extended standby life and dependable operation in devices with intermittent high-drain pulses (such as wireless transmitters and motion detectors). The cell’s stable discharge characteristics help maintain sensor sensitivity and communication reliability over its service life, and its low self-discharge behaviour supports long shelf life — a practical advantage for installers who keep batteries in stock for months or years.
- Form factor: CR123A, dimensions 16 × 34 mm — compact profile compatible with many security sensors and compact electronic devices.
- Weight: about 17 g — light and easy to handle for field installation.
- Storage temperature: −20°C to 45°C — suitable for warehouse storage and indoor environments.
- Operating/discharge temperature: −40°C to 70°C — wide operational range that supports use in exposed or semi-exposed installations and cold climates.
The product is supplied under the supplier SKU BATT-VARTA-CR123A-R and is also known by the designation CR17345. It is available singly (single-blister) for retail replacement and commonly in distributor boxes (typically boxes of 50) for installers and maintenance teams. No manufacturer warranty is specified with this listing (warranty: 0), so users should follow best-practice storage and installation guidance and refer to vendor or device manuals for warranty details when used in warranty-impacted systems.
- Reliable, brand-quality power from VARTA for consistent device behaviour.
- High energy density and stable voltage suitable for both low-drain standby and pulses of higher drain.
- Wide operating temperature range for outdoor and cold-climate applications.
- Pyronix-validated replacement for Enforcer wireless detectors and compatible sensors — simplifies parts selection for installers working with Pyronix systems.
- Available in single and bulk packaging to suit individual users and professional installers alike.
Use cases and scenarios where the VARTA CR123A excels
The VARTA CR123A is especially well suited to applications that demand long, predictable battery life in a small package. Typical scenarios include:
- Wireless intruder alarm detectors and contacts: Many wireless security devices transmit infrequently but need reliable high-voltage pulses when they do. The CR123A’s combination of capacity and voltage stability supports long operational life between service visits.
- Smoke and environmental sensors: Smoke alarms and environmental detectors that incorporate wireless signalling benefit from a stable 3.0 V source that maintains sensitivity and communication thresholds over time.
- Outdoor sensors and exposed installations: The cell’s operating range down to −40°C makes it suitable for sensors installed in cold environments, external housings or unheated spaces where temperature extremes would reduce the useful life of some other chemistries.
- Professional installer stock and preventive maintenance programs: Because of long shelf life and predictable service life in installed devices, stock management and scheduled replacements are simpler with a reputable primary cell.
- Other CR123A applications: While this listing is focused on security equipment, CR123A cells are also used in photography equipment, compact torches and certain medical and industrial instruments; the VARTA cell’s consistent performance and quality control make it appropriate wherever a 3.0 V primary CR123A is specified.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
One of the most common comparisons when choosing a CR123A-format cell is between primary (non-rechargeable) lithium CR123A cells and rechargeable RCR123A (also labelled 16340 or RCR123A) lithium-ion cells. Key differences to consider:
- Nominal voltage: Primary CR123A cells are nominally 3.0 V. Rechargeable RCR123A cells typically have a nominal voltage closer to 3.6–3.7 V; this higher voltage can be incompatible with devices designed for 3.0 V operation or can affect device electronics and battery-monitoring circuits.
- Shelf life and self-discharge: Primary CR123A cells usually offer much lower self-discharge and longer shelf life, making them preferable for backup and emergency devices that sit unused for long periods.
- Cycle life: Rechargeables can be reused many times, reducing waste and cost-per-use in frequently used devices. For low-drain, infrequently accessed devices (alarms, smoke sensors), primary cells like the VARTA CR123A are often more practical because they avoid the hassle and potential compatibility issues of recharging in-place.
- Safety and approval: Some manufacturers and security system vendors (including those like Pyronix) test and approve specific primary cells. Using vendor-approved primary cells simplifies compliance and support.
Choosing a branded VARTA cell over a no-name or generic CR123A typically provides benefits in quality control, manufacturing traceability and consistent performance. For installers and end users who depend on predictable behaviour (battery life estimations, alarm diagnostics), brand consistency reduces the risk of premature battery failure or unexpected voltage dropouts. Additionally, branded products frequently come in installer-friendly packaging and carry supplier SKUs that make procurement and inventory management easier.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
No formal, attributable customer testimonials are included with this listing. However, representative feedback commonly reported by installers and system managers when using quality, brand-name CR123A cells (like VARTA) in professional alarm systems includes:
- "Reliable long life in sensors — fewer site visits for battery changes."
- "Consistent voltage until end-of-life, which helps the detector electronics behave predictably."
- "Wide temperature tolerance — performs well in cold external housings."
- "Bulk packs make stocking and maintenance simple for multi-site contracts."
These representative comments reflect typical priorities for professional users: reliability, predictable service intervals, and straightforward procurement. If you require specific, attributable reviews, check vendor pages or trade forums where installers post device-specific experiences.
Conclusion: Why choose the VARTA CR123A (BATT-VARTA-CR123A-R)?
The VARTA CR123A 3.0 V 1.3 Ah (CR17345) cell is a pragmatic choice for anyone specifying or maintaining equipment that requires the CR123A format. Its combination of brand reliability, stable electrical performance, wide temperature tolerance and Pyronix-validated compatibility for Enforcer wireless detectors makes it particularly suitable for professional security installers and for end users who prioritise dependable, long-life power in sensors and detectors.
Whether purchasing single replacement units or stocking larger distributor packs, the VARTA CR123A offers predictable service life and straightforward compatibility where a 3.0 V primary CR123A is required. For installations where regulatory or manufacturer approvals matter, choosing a known-brand, supplier-referenced cell can simplify device support and reduce the risk of battery-related faults. As always, follow manufacturer installation guidance, observe safety instructions (do not recharge, short-circuit, puncture or incinerate), and dispose of used cells in accordance with local regulations.
