Batteries for IoT - how to choose the best one.
What factors should you consider when selecting batteries for IoT? The rapidly growing trend of connected devices (expected to reach 29 billion by 2030) has increased the pressure on product developers and suppliers working with various IoT-components.
We asked our battery experts to outline the key factors to consider when choosing batteries for IoT. With these insights, you’ll know what to prioritize when making your decision.
Variaty in battery chemistries
Depending on the specific IoT application, its unique design, and usage, there are various types of battery chemistries available on the market:
- Lithium-ion batteries are most commonly used in devices where energy density and long cycle life are critical.
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) are preferred in IoT devices that rely on next-generation networks, such as 5G/LPWA (Low Power Wide Area), or devices that operate across a wide temperature range.
Another important consideration is how much power the IoT device requires and how long it needs to run on a single charge. Some devices demand significantly more power than others, and you likely want to avoid frequent recharging. In such cases, choose a battery with a higher power output.
Does size really matter?
Many IoT devices share one common characteristic – their small size. This often necessitates the use of a smaller and lighter battery. For these types of products, it’s essential to choose a battery that does not take up too much space or add excessive weight. The most common choice for such applications is rechargeable lithium button batteries or other coin-type batteries. However, some IoT devices require replaceable batteries, which may include lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride options.
Factors impacting battery performance
If your IoT device is used in extreme temperatures or harsh environments, choosing a battery designed to withstand these conditions is crucial. Additionally, the battery must interact seamlessly with other components and its surroundings to minimize the risk of interference, which could damage the device.
Temperature changes, even slight ones, can significantly affect a battery’s capacity and service life. To ensure proper operation, select a battery suited to the specific temperature conditions. For instance, the acceptable temperature range for lithium-ion cells is typically -20°C to 60°C. Both high and very low temperatures can damage lithium-ion batteries in several ways:
Faster degradation due to accelerated aging processes.
Loss of power caused by increased internal resistance.
- Thermal runaway, which could have catastrophic consequences for the device and its surroundings.
What affects the price of Iot-batteries?
Price is often a deciding factor when selecting a battery, regardless of the project type. As a decision-maker, you’ll need to balance cost with performance. So, what should you keep in mind?
Customized Solutions: The more complex the application design, the higher the cost of developing a custom battery solution that stores sufficient power for system operation.
Bulk Orders: Ordering a large volume of batteries can reduce per-unit costs. If the batteries have a long shelf life and consistent demand, buying in bulk can lead to significant savings.
Battery Type: The variety of battery types affects overall costs. For example, lithium-ion and solid-state batteries require sophisticated manufacturing processes, which increase their price. However, their longer lifecycle and higher capacity often justify the cost through reduced operational and replacement expenses.
Be cautious about your choice of suppliers. There is significant variation in the quality of batteries available on the market, and not all suppliers provide the certifications and regulatory documentation required for importing batteries into the European market. Always check for compliance with standards such as UL, CE, or RoHS. A low price may cost you much more in the long run!
When selecting lithium-ion batteries for IoT applications, pay special attention to the Battery Management System (BMS). This system balances battery cells, monitors temperature, and prevents overcharging or over-discharging. While a more complex BMS increases costs, it ensures the safety and longevity of your IoT product. Additionally, some BMS designs may require extra components or design considerations to integrate seamlessly with the overall battery system.
Sparq –guiding you in your personal choice
Now that you’ve seen how many factors can influence battery selection for your IoT devices, you may still have questions about your specific project. Sparq Technology has helped numerous customers across Europe find batteries perfectly suited to their requirements. Feel free to reach out to us with your questions by filling out our form or sending an email to Sparq. It’s completely free and requires minimal information from your side. Let us handle your concerns and guide you toward the best solution!