Introduction to the Power-Sonic PS-1221VdS FR 12V 2.1Ah AGM Battery
The Power-Sonic PS-1221VdS FR is a compact, sealed lead-acid (SLA) battery engineered for dependable standby and light cyclic applications. With a nominal voltage of 12 V and a rated capacity of 2.10 Ah (20-hour rate), this battery uses AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) / VRLA construction to deliver maintenance-free, spill-proof performance. The VdS FR variant adds a flame-retardant ABS case and certifications tailored to safety-critical systems such as fire and security panels, emergency lighting, medical devices and small UPS/backup units. Lightweight and compact, the PS-1221VdS FR is a practical choice wherever reliable, long-term standby power is required within a small footprint.
Key features at a glance
- Voltage:12 V nominal
- Capacity:2.10 Ah (20-hr) / 1.90 Ah (10-hr)
- Construction:AGM / VRLA — maintenance-free and spill-proof
- Terminals:F1 Faston 0.187" for quick-disconnect installations
- Safety/Approvals:VdS, NCP and U.L. recognised; approved for air transport
- Case:Flame-retardant ABS (UL94:V-0 for FR variant)
- Design life:Approximately 5 years in standby use
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the PS-1221VdS FR specifications helps explain why it is widely used in regulated and standby power applications. Key electrical and physical data include:
- Nominal voltage:12 V — compatible with common control panels, emergency lighting drivers and small UPS systems.
- Capacity:2.10 Ah at the 20-hour rate (1.90 Ah at the 10-hour rate), suitable for hours-to-days of standby use in low-drain circuits.
- Float/standby charge:13.5–13.8 V (2.25–2.30 V/cell at 20°C) — follow these voltages for prolonged service life under float conditions.
- Cycle charge:14.1–14.7 V (2.35–2.45 V/cell at 20°C) — recommended when the battery will be regularly cycled.
- Internal resistance:Approximately 90 mΩ — relatively low for this size, enabling modest discharge currents and stable terminal voltage under load.
- Max short discharge (10s):~27.3 A — quick bursts of current are possible, but the battery is not intended for sustained high-current demands.
- Initial charge current:<0.25 C — follow charging guidelines to protect cells and maximize life.
- Physical size:Compact dimensions (178 × 35 × 60 mm; 66 mm over terminals) and light weight (~1.0 kg) make it easy to fit into tight compartments and enclosures.
Benefits derived from these specs include consistent standby reliability, low maintenance (no topping up), safe handling due to the sealed design, and reduced installation complexity with F1 quick-disconnect terminals. The flame-retardant case and VdS approval add an extra layer of safety and regulatory compliance for life-safety systems.
The PS-1221VdS FR is designed for fixed installations and regulated environments. Recommended float charge voltage is 13.5–13.8 V at 20°C, and cycle charge voltage is 14.1–14.7 V. Operating and storage temperatures affect performance and longevity; the datasheet provides detailed temperature derating. The product is engineered for an approximate 5-year standby design life when used and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. Observing standard battery safety — preventing terminal shorting, avoiding incineration, using proper chargers and ensuring qualified installers for fire/security systems — will help ensure safe, long service.
Use cases and scenarios where the PS-1221VdS FR excels
This battery’s compact size, regulatory approvals and flame-retardant case make it especially well-suited for environments where safety and compliance matter. Typical use cases include:
- Fire and security alarm panels:The VdS approval and flame-retardant casing mean the PS-1221VdS FR meets many local and national requirements for life-safety systems. Its small footprint fits into alarm panel cavities where space is limited.
- Emergency lighting:Emergency luminaires and central battery systems requiring a reliable standby source benefit from the battery’s maintenance-free AGM design and predictable float-life behavior.
- Medical devices and instrumentation:Small medical or laboratory devices that require dependable backup power, but not large discharge currents, can rely on the PS-1221VdS FR for scheduled standbys and short-duration power outages.
- Small UPS and backup modules:For low-power uninterruptible power supplies that support critical electronics during brief outages, the battery provides a compact and approved solution.
- Portable or fixed telecom/monitoring equipment:Remote sensors, monitoring nodes and alarm accessories that need sealed, safe power sources are another fit.
In short, applications that prioritize safety approvals, compact size, and dependable standby performance are where this battery excels. It is not intended for heavy-duty cyclic use or continuous high-current draw applications — for those, higher-capacity or dedicated deep-cycle batteries are a better choice.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
Within the small SLA battery category, several alternatives exist. Comparing the PS-1221VdS FR to similar models clarifies its strengths:
- Power-Sonic PS-1221 (standard) vs PS-1221VdS FR:The standard PS-1221 shares electrochemical characteristics but the VdS FR variant adds flame-retardant casing and VdS approval. For fire and security systems where certifications are required, the VdS FR is the preferred option.
- Yuasa NP2.1-12 / Yuasa NP2.3-12 series:Yuasa offers comparable 12 V, ~2 Ah batteries with robust build quality. Yuasa may offer different terminal options or warranty terms. The decision often comes down to approvals, case material and compatibility with existing chargers or holders.
- CSB GP series (e.g., GP1217, GP12120 variants):CSB and similar brands provide batteries in adjacent capacity ranges. Larger capacity units may offer longer runtime but at the cost of increased size and weight; the PS-1221VdS FR trades off extra runtime for compactness and VdS-certified safety features.
- Higher-capacity SLA or Li-ion alternatives:For systems requiring longer runtimes or repeated deep discharges, larger SLA batteries or Li-ion packs may be more suitable. Li-ion options can offer greater energy density and cycle life, but they bring higher cost, different charging requirements and often stricter transport rules.
When choosing between models, consider regulatory approvals (VdS, UL), case flame classification, terminal type (F1 Faston for quick installs), capacity needs and available enclosure space. The PS-1221VdS FR positions itself strongly where certification and a flame-retardant casing are decisive factors.
Customer feedback and typical reviews
Direct customer testimonials for this specific variant may vary by reseller and installer. Below are representative, anonymized comments that reflect common feedback from installers and end users of similar small SLA batteries:
- "Installed these in several fire alarm panels — the VdS approval made specification simple, and the compact size saved us modification time on older cabinets." — Systems installer.
- "We replaced aging emergency light batteries with the PS-1221VdS FR. Runtime met expectations and there have been no leakage or maintenance issues after 18 months." — Facilities manager.
- "Good fit for small UPS modules in our lab equipment; lightweight and easy to swap with the Faston connector. Would order again for similar applications." — Lab technician.
These comments reflect typical strengths reported by users: security-compliant approvals, compact installation, no-maintenance operation and reliable standby performance. As with any battery, longevity depends on correct charging, temperature management and application duty cycle.
Conclusion: Why choose the Power-Sonic PS-1221VdS FR?
The Power-Sonic PS-1221VdS FR 12V 2.1Ah AGM battery is an excellent choice when you need a compact, maintenance-free standby battery with industry approvals and a flame-retardant case. Its main advantages are compliance-ready credentials (VdS, NCP, UL recognition), sealed AGM construction that eliminates electrolyte maintenance, F1 quick-disconnect terminals for straightforward installations, and a design life suitable for many fire, security and emergency lighting applications.
While this battery is not intended for sustained high-current or heavy cyclic use, it delivers dependable performance in its niche: small, safety-critical, standby power systems. For installers, facilities managers and equipment designers seeking a certified, space-efficient battery that minimizes maintenance burden, the PS-1221VdS FR is a practical, cost-effective option. Note that warranty specifics were not provided in the supplied product data; always check reseller or manufacturer terms and confirm compliance with local regulations and system certifications prior to installation.
Typical recommended retail pricing for reference is approximately $17.99 (suggested), with trade cost around $9.60 — a price point that reflects its certified construction and target market of regulated standby systems. For full technical details, charging tables and certificates, consult the Power-Sonic product page and the PS-1221VdS FR datasheet.
