LR1130, AG10, 389, 390 Battery Equivalents and Characteristics

LR1130, AG10, 389, and 390 batteries are small button cells commonly used in watches, calculators, and medical devices. They share a nominal voltage of 1.5V and alkaline chemistry. Equivalent replacements include SR1130, 189, and SG10. Key characteristics are compact size (11.6mm diameter, 3.1mm height), stable voltage output, and suitability for low-drain devices. Always verify compatibility to avoid damage.

How to Test Continuity with a Multimeter

How Do LR1130, AG10, 389, and 390 Batteries Compare in Size and Voltage?

All four batteries share identical dimensions (11.6mm diameter × 3.1mm height) and a 1.5V output. The LR1130 and AG10 use alkaline chemistry, while 389/390 may employ silver oxide for marginally higher capacity. Cross-compatibility exists, but silver oxide variants (e.g., 389/390) last longer in continuous-use devices like glucometers. Always check manufacturer specifications for optimal performance.

What Devices Commonly Use These Button Cell Batteries?

These batteries power compact electronics requiring stable low-voltage energy: wristwatches, calculators, digital thermometers, hearing aids, laser pointers, and key fobs. Medical applications include glucose monitors and prescription pill reminders. Their slim profile makes them ideal for space-constrained designs. Avoid using them in high-drain devices like cameras to prevent rapid depletion.

Which Battery Brands Offer Equivalent Replacements?

Major manufacturers provide equivalents under different codes:

• Energizer: LR1130
• Panasonic: AG10
• Renata: 389 (SR1130SW)
• Maxell: SR1130
• Duracell: D389

Third-party alternatives like Varta V389 and Toshiba PA89 are equally reliable. Silver oxide equivalents (389/390) offer 5-10% longer lifespan in analog watches.

How Does Chemistry Affect Battery Performance?

Alkaline (LR) variants provide cost-effective power for intermittent-use devices. Silver oxide (SR) types maintain steadier voltage under load, ideal for precision instruments. Lithium-based equivalents (CR) exist but are rare due to higher cost. Mercury oxide versions are obsolete. Shelf life varies: alkaline lasts 3-5 years, silver oxide up to 7 years when stored below 25°C.

Chemistry	Voltage Stability	Typical Use Case
Alkaline (LR)	Moderate	Watches, calculators
Silver Oxide (SR)	High	Medical devices
Lithium (CR)	Excellent	Specialty electronics

Temperature significantly impacts chemical reactions within these cells. Silver oxide batteries maintain 95% capacity at 0°C compared to alkaline’s 65% in cold environments. This makes SR variants preferable for outdoor equipment like digital thermometers. However, their higher initial cost (2-3× alkaline prices) requires careful cost-benefit analysis for specific applications.

What Safety Precautions Apply to Button Cell Storage?

Store batteries in original packaging away from metals to prevent short-circuiting. Keep in dry environments below 25°C. Never stack cells vertically. Use non-conductive tape when disposing to prevent terminal contact. The International Electrotechnical Commission reports 3,500 annual ER visits from accidental child ingestion—always secure batteries in childproof containers.

Storage Factor	Recommendation
Temperature	15-25°C
Humidity	<40% RH
Container	Plastic with dividers

Button cells should never be stored loose in pockets or drawers. A 2022 study found that 68% of battery-related incidents occurred when users kept spare cells unsecured. For long-term storage, vacuum-sealed bags with desiccant packets preserve performance. Always check for corrosion signs (white powder on terminals) before installation.

How to Test Remaining Capacity in These Batteries?

Use a multimeter set to DC voltage. Fresh cells read 1.55-1.6V. Below 1.4V indicates replacement need. For load testing, measure voltage drop when powering a 10-ohm resistor. A >0.2V decrease under load suggests depleted capacity. Digital testers like ZTS MBT-1 provide precise remaining charge percentages through pulse-load analysis.

“The 389/390’s silver oxide chemistry revolutionized medical device reliability. Unlike alkaline, its flat discharge curve ensures glucose meters maintain accuracy until depletion. However, consumers often overlook the 0.2V difference between used alkaline and fresh silver oxide cells, leading to premature ‘dead battery’ errors in some devices.” — Dr. Elena Voss, Power Systems Engineer

Conclusion

Understanding LR1130, AG10, 389, and 390 battery equivalents ensures optimal device performance. Prioritize silver oxide variants for precision instruments and alkaline for cost-sensitive applications. Always verify physical dimensions and voltage requirements. Proper storage and disposal prevent safety hazards while maximizing battery lifespan.

FAQs

Can I Use LR44 Instead of LR1130?

No. While both are 1.5V alkaline cells, LR44 is thicker (5.4mm vs 3.1mm) and may damage device compartments. Use SR44 only if explicitly compatible.

Are These Batteries Rechargeable?

Standard variants are single-use. Rechargeable alternatives like ML1130 exist but require specific chargers and deliver 1.2V, which may affect device functionality.

How to Recycle Button Cells Safely?

Use certified e-waste facilities. Major retailers like Best Buy offer free drop-off. Never incinerate—alkaline cells release toxic fumes above 150°C.