Gama Sonic 3.2 V 600 mAh LiFePO₄ (14500)

Gama Sonic 3.2 V 600 mAh LiFePO4 (14500) — What It Is

This is a rechargeable 14500-size (AA-sized) lithium iron phosphate cell designed for low-power products such as solar pathway lights, garden fixtures, and small outdoor devices. LiFePO4 chemistry provides a steady 3.2 V nominal output, good cold-weather performance, and enhanced safety compared to many other lithium chemistries.

Key Specs

Chemistry	LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
Nominal Voltage	3.2 V
Capacity	600 mAh (0.6 Ah)
Size	14500 (approx. 14 × 50 mm, AA-sized)
Charge Profile	LiFePO4-specific charger; typical full-charge cutoff around 3.6–3.65 V
Use Case	Solar lighting and other low-drain devices with onboard LiFePO4 charging

When to Choose This Battery

• Your device originally came with a 3.2 V LiFePO4 14500 cell (often 500–700 mAh).
• You need safe, steady output for dusk-to-dawn solar lighting.
• Operating in variable outdoor temperatures where LiFePO4’s stability helps.

Avoid If

• Your device uses 1.2 V NiMH AA or 1.5 V alkaline AA—this 3.2 V cell is not a drop-in replacement.
• Your device expects a 3.7 V Li-ion 14500—use the chemistry/voltage specified by the manufacturer.
• The charger or solar controller is not designed for LiFePO4.

Compatibility & Installation

• Match chemistry and voltage: replace only LiFePO4 3.2 V cells with LiFePO4 3.2 V cells.
• Check size and terminal style (flat-top vs. button-top, tabs, or leads) to match your fixture.
• Observe polarity: align + and − exactly as marked in the device.
• After installation in a solar light, allow 1–2 full sunny days for the controller to balance and top off the battery.

Expected Runtime (Simple Sizing)

Approximate nightly runtime depends on load. Use this quick estimate:

Runtime (hours) ≈ Capacity (mAh) × 0.8 ÷ Device draw (mA)

• Example: A pathway light drawing 80 mA → 600 × 0.8 ÷ 80 ≈ 6 hours.
• Lower draw (30 mA decorative light) → 600 × 0.8 ÷ 30 ≈ 16 hours.

Actual results vary with temperature, charge time, panel size, and controller behavior.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Safer chemistry, stable 3.2 V output, good lifespan when properly charged, better cold performance than many Li-ion types.
• Cons: Not interchangeable with AA NiMH/alkaline or 3.7 V Li-ion; capacity (600 mAh) may be insufficient for high-brightness lights.

Care & Safety

• Use only a LiFePO4-compatible charger or solar controller (not a 4.2 V Li-ion charger).
• Do not mix old and new cells or different chemistries in the same device.
• Avoid deep discharges; recharge promptly for best longevity.
• Store around 40–60% charge in a cool, dry place if unused for months; check every 3–6 months.

Alternatives

• Higher-capacity LiFePO4 14500 (e.g., ~800–1000 mAh): Longer runtime if your device supports it.
• NiMH AA (1.2 V): Only if your device specifies NiMH; common in older non-LiFePO4 solar lights.
• Primary alkaline AA (1.5 V): For non-rechargeable devices only; never charge.

FAQ

Can I use this in place of a standard AA battery?

No. Although it is AA-sized, this cell is 3.2 V rechargeable LiFePO4. Do not substitute for 1.2 V NiMH or 1.5 V alkaline AA.

How do I know if my solar light supports LiFePO4?

Check the original battery label and the light’s manual. If it states 3.2 V LiFePO4 (14500), this cell is appropriate.

Do I need a special charger?

Yes. Use a LiFePO4 charger (typical cutoff around 3.6–3.65 V) or a solar controller designed for LiFePO4. Do not charge with a 4.2 V Li-ion charger.

How long will the battery last?

Service life depends on depth of discharge, temperature, and charging. Gentle cycling and avoiding deep discharge generally extend lifespan.

Why did my new battery not run all night immediately?

After installation, it may need 1–2 full sunny days to reach full charge, especially if shipped partially charged.