A note on batteries
Digital Matter battery powered devices offer world-leading performance and battery life.
However, it should be noted, with any battery powered device, the ultimate performance and battery life is largely down to the batteries themselves. Our devices make the best use of the energy available from the batteries. But if the batteries underperform, so will the entire solution.
Cheap batteries can be found, but great care needs to be taken. Using low quality batteries can lead to early battery failure, and short battery life.
Often, the cost of going out to an asset to replace batteries will FAR exceed any marginal cost saving on batteries, and any reputational damage with your customers.
This is why we have left no stone unturned in designing the Oyster Edge to achieve it's 'Deploy Once' battery life.
Some examples of batteries and suppliers are given in this article. DM has not tested all models and partners should conduct their own testing to verify the batteries are suitable. Many batteries will be 'suitable' according to their datasheet but not perform later on after some time in the field.
If you are unsure on battery selection, contact our support team.
Recommendations:
1. Fresh Batteries
It has been shown that batteries deteriorate over time. Make sure that the batteries that you are buying are as fresh as possible. You can usually check the batch manufacture date or the expiry date on the battery to get an idea.
2. Test
Ideally each battery should be tested using a battery tester before being installed.
3. Size
You would think every battery is exactly the same size. But they can vary slightly and affect the fit of the battery in the device. It is important to check the fit of your batteries in the device's battery holder.
Battery Requirements
The Oyster Edge has the following requirements for batteries:
| Battery Size | 3 x AA |
| Input Voltage Range | 3 → 5.5V |
| Battery Chemistry |
|
Suitable Batteries
Resellers should conduct their own testing to ensure the listed batteries meet their requirements.
| Battery | Where to buy? |
| Energizer Ultimate Lithium L91 - AA | Hardware stores Supermarkets Battery Distributors |
Alkaline Batteries
- The Oyster Edge supports LiFeS2 or Alkaline batteries.
- Energizer Ultimate Lithium are recommended
- Alkaline batteries will work - but many cheaper models are of low quality and likely to fail early. However they are a good cheap option for testing or short deployments.