Saft LS-14250-BA

Saft LS-14250-BA (1/2 AA, 3.6 V Li-SOCl2)

The LS-14250-BA is a compact, long-life primary lithium-thionyl chloride cell for low-average-current electronics. The BA variant comes with axial leads for reliable PCB mounting, avoiding direct heat on the cell can during assembly.

When to choose

• Long service life with very low average current (e.g., 5–100 µA) such as RTC/memory backup, metering, and data logging.
• Wide temperature operation from cold outdoor installs to warm equipment bays (about -60°C to +85°C).
• Intermittent pulse loads when paired with a suitable low-ESR capacitor.

When to avoid

• Continuous high current draws or frequent heavy pulses without a buffer capacitor.
• Applications requiring rechargeability or power tools, cameras, or radios with sustained transmit.
• Life-support or implantable medical devices (use dedicated, approved cells only).

Key specs

Chemistry	Lithium-Thionyl Chloride (Li-SOCl2), bobbin
Format	1/2 AA (often cross-referenced as ER14250)
Nominal voltage	3.6 V
Typical capacity	≈ 1200 mAh (at low drain, 20°C)
Self-discharge	< 1%/year at 20°C (storage/use conditions dependent)
Operating temperature	~ -60°C to +85°C
Dimensions (DxH)	≈ 14.55 mm × 25.15 mm
Weight	≈ 8.9 g
Max continuous current	Up to ~35 mA (application and temperature dependent)
Pulse capability	Short pulses up to ~100 mA with a parallel capacitor
Termination	BA: axial leads for soldering
Compliance	RoHS and REACH compliant

Runtime planning

Estimate runtime with capacity ÷ average current. Real-world life depends on temperature, pulse profile, and cutoff voltage.

• 10 µA average: ≈ 1200 mAh / 0.01 mA ≈ 120,000 h ≈ 13.7 years (often limited by self-discharge).
• 50 µA average: ≈ 2.7 years.
• 100 µA average: ≈ 1.4 years.

For radio bursts, keep average current low and use a pulse capacitor to offload peaks.

Handling pulse loads

• Add a low-ESR capacitor (e.g., 100–470 µF) across the supply near the load; size it to your pulse width and peak current.
• Minimize pulse duration and duty cycle; allow recovery time between bursts.
• If peak demand or duty cycle remains high, consider a hybrid Li-SOCl2 with an HLC or a different chemistry designed for pulses.

Installation and compatibility

• BA axial leads are intended for PCB soldering; avoid soldering directly to the cell can.
• Check polarity markings before installation; do not reverse connect.
• Often interchangeable with ER14250-format cells; verify dimensions, lead style, and voltage before replacing.

Storage and safety

• Store cool, dry, and ventilated; ideally ≤ 30°C. Avoid prolonged high-temperature storage.
• Primary cell—do not recharge. Do not short, crush, or incinerate.
• Use only in compatible equipment; do not mix old and new cells or different chemistries.
• Dispose/recycle per local regulations. Transport is subject to lithium battery shipping rules (UN38.3 applies).

Alternatives

• Need higher pulse current: consider Li-SOCl2 cells with pulse support (hybrid or spiral types).
• Need rechargeable: a Li-ion 14500 is not a drop-in replacement (different charging and characteristics).
• Different size constraints: CR123A (3.0 V) or AA-size LS14500 (3.6 V) may fit if the device allows.

FAQ

Is the LS-14250-BA rechargeable?

No. It is a primary (non-rechargeable) lithium cell. Charging can cause leakage, venting, or fire.

What does the “BA” suffix mean?

BA denotes a factory-fitted axial lead configuration for PCB soldering, improving mounting reliability.

Can it replace an ER14250?

Generally yes, if your device expects a 1/2 AA 3.6 V Li-SOCl2 cell and the lead style matches. Always confirm size, polarity, and connector.

How do I power a radio transmitter with this cell?

Keep the average current low and place a low-ESR capacitor (e.g., 100–470 µF) across the supply near the radio. Validate pulse performance at your lowest operating temperature.

What shelf life can I expect?

With very low self-discharge (typically under 1%/year at 20°C), long storage and service life are achievable. Actual life depends on temperature and load.