Batteries for our wireless active infrared beams

29 October 2020

To ensure the best performance for our battery-operated active infrared beams, it is important to use the lithium-based D size LSH-20 , 3.6V batteries manufactured by SAFT. Our tech team explains why it matters.

When our engineers designed our battery-operated active infrared beams, they specified what type of batteries will ensure the best performance and longevity. For all our active beams series, we recommend using the Lithium-based D size LSH-20, 3,6V batteries produced by SAFT.

Why we recommend using Lithium-based rather than Alkaline batteries?

Whilst Alkaline batteries are good for everyday electronic devices at home, they are not suited for our professional security sensors as they can’t provide a voltage high enough to power them. Additionally, Lithium based batteries last longer and they can withstand colder temperature which is a key benefit as our beams are installed in an outdoor environment. It is key not to compromise on the performance of a security system; investing in the correct batteries to ensure the functioning of the system should be part of the quality process.

What are the risks if alternative batteries are used?

If systems are installed using alternative batteries to the LSH-20, a number of issues can happen. First of all, the battery-operated infrared beams may simply not power up. Another issue is that different manufacturers of Lithium batteries will have a slightly different length of connectors meaning they will not fit correctly in the battery-holder. While the system might be working to start with, the connection would come loose, and the beams will stop working.

How many batteries are needed for each OPTEX beam model?

For the AX-TFR series: A total of four LSH-20 batteries are required, two for the receiving beams and two for the transmitting beam. The batteries can last on average three to five years.

For the SL-QFR and SL-QNR series: four batteries in each side (eight in total). There is the option to have two on each beam (four in total) the battery life will be between three to five years. The other option is to have four batteries on each side, which increases the battery life of eight to ten years.