CR1620 Battery Near Me: Your Irvine Power Solution
CR1620 battery near me is a search term many in Irvine, California, find themselves typing, often when a crucial device suddenly powers down. Whether it’s a key fob, a small electronic scale, a digital thermometer, or a compact remote control, the CR1620 lithium coin cell battery is a common power source. Locating these specific batteries quickly in a bustling area like Irvine, United States, can be a minor but important task. This guide will help you understand where to find CR1620 batteries in Irvine, explore their uses, and ensure you can power up your devices when you need them most. We’ll also touch upon the broader availability across the United States, ensuring you’re never too far from a power source. In 2026, staying connected and functional is paramount, and knowing where to source essential components like CR1620 batteries is part of that preparedness.
The demand for small, reliable power sources like the CR1620 battery is constant. As Irvine, California, continues to be a hub for technology and innovation, the need for readily available components for everything from smart home devices to wearable tech is ever-present. This article aims to provide a comprehensive answer to your search for ‘CR1620 battery near me,’ focusing specifically on the Irvine area while also providing general context for the United States. We’ll delve into the types of devices that commonly use this battery, where to purchase them, and what to look for when buying, ensuring you get the best value and performance in 2026.
Understanding the CR1620 Battery
The CR1620 is a specific type of lithium coin cell battery, a compact, button-shaped power source designed for low-drain electronic devices. The designation ‘CR’ indicates that it’s a lithium manganese dioxide chemistry, known for its high energy density and long shelf life. The ’16’ refers to its diameter in millimeters (16mm), and the ’20’ refers to its thickness, also in millimeters (2.0mm). These dimensions make it ideal for fitting into slim or small electronic casings. CR1620 batteries typically operate at a nominal voltage of 3 volts, providing a stable power output that is crucial for sensitive electronic components. Their primary advantages include their compact size, lightweight nature, and exceptional longevity, often lasting several years in standby mode or when powering devices with minimal energy consumption. This makes them a popular choice for applications where frequent battery changes are impractical or undesirable. In Irvine, California, where technology is integrated into daily life, understanding these basic specifications ensures you’re purchasing the correct battery for your needs.
Key Characteristics of CR1620 Batteries
When looking for a CR1620 battery, it’s essential to be aware of its key features. The 3-volt output is standard for many small electronics. Their operating temperature range is typically quite wide, allowing them to function in various environmental conditions, which is beneficial for devices used both indoors and outdoors in areas like Irvine. Furthermore, CR1620 batteries are non-rechargeable, designed for single use. Their construction often involves a hermetically sealed design to prevent leakage and ensure safety. The long shelf life, often exceeding five years, means you can keep spares on hand without significant degradation. This reliability is why they are found in critical devices like medical sensors, keyless entry fobs for vehicles, and even some computer motherboards for CMOS memory backup. Understanding these characteristics helps you appreciate why the CR1620 is such a prevalent battery type across the United States.
Common Devices Using CR1620 Batteries in Irvine
In a technologically advanced city like Irvine, United States, the CR1620 battery powers a surprisingly diverse range of everyday devices. Their small size and reliable voltage output make them perfect for applications where space is limited. You’ll frequently find them in:
- Key Fobs and Remote Controls: Many car key fobs, garage door openers, and compact remote controls utilize CR1620 batteries for their long-lasting power. Losing your car key battery in Irvine is a common reason people search for ‘CR1620 battery near me.’
- Small Electronic Gadgets: Think of small LED lights, portable fans, electronic organizers, and novelty items.
- Wearable Technology: Some fitness trackers, pedometers, and personal health monitoring devices use CR1620 batteries for their discreet power needs.
- Home and Office Tools: Small digital scales, laser pointers, calculators, and pocket-sized devices often rely on this battery type.
- Medical Devices: Certain personal medical devices like digital thermometers, glucose meters, and heart rate monitors use CR1620 batteries for their consistent performance.
- Computer Motherboards: While less common now with larger motherboards, some compact or older motherboards use CR1620 batteries to maintain BIOS settings and the system clock when the computer is off.
The prevalence of these devices means that a dead CR1620 battery can cause significant inconvenience, driving the need for accessible replacements in areas like Irvine, California. Whether you’re a student at UC Irvine, a professional in one of the city’s tech parks, or a resident enjoying the suburban lifestyle, having a reliable source for these batteries is essential for 2026.
Where to Find CR1620 Batteries Near Me in Irvine
When your device needs a CR1620 battery, you don’t want to wait. Fortunately, Irvine, California, and its surrounding areas offer several convenient retail locations where you can find these batteries. These options range from large electronics stores to smaller convenience shops, ensuring you can find what you need relatively quickly.
Electronics Retailers
Major electronics chains are your best bet for a wide selection and often competitive pricing. Stores like Best Buy are well-stocked with various battery types, including CR1620. Their Geek Squad counter might also offer replacement services for specific devices if you’re unsure how to replace the battery yourself. These stores are strategically located throughout Irvine, making them accessible from most parts of the city.
Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
Large grocery stores and hypermarkets, such as Target, Walmart, and Ralphs in the Irvine area, typically have a dedicated battery section. You can often find blister packs of CR1620 batteries alongside other common battery sizes. These stores are convenient for grabbing a battery while running other errands.
Drugstores and Convenience Stores
Local drugstores like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, as well as smaller convenience stores and gas stations, are also good places to check. While their selection might be more limited, and prices potentially higher, they offer the quickest access for urgent needs. If you’re out and about in Irvine and your device dies, these are often the closest options.
Specialty Battery Stores
For specific needs or bulk purchases, specialty battery stores might exist in or near Irvine. These stores offer a comprehensive range of batteries, including less common types, and often have knowledgeable staff who can assist you. However, for a common battery like the CR1620, standard retail outlets are usually sufficient.
Online Retailers (for future reference)
While not an immediate solution for ‘near me’ searches, online giants like Amazon, eBay, and direct manufacturers offer CR1620 batteries. Buying in bulk online can significantly reduce the per-battery cost, making it a smart option for stocking up. This is a good strategy for 2026 and beyond, ensuring you always have spares available without needing to make last-minute trips around Irvine.
Choosing the Right CR1620 Battery: Quality and Brands
Not all CR1620 batteries are created equal. While the specifications (16mm diameter, 2.0mm thickness, 3V) are standardized, the quality, reliability, and brand reputation can vary significantly. When you’re looking for a CR1620 battery in Irvine, United States, consider these factors to ensure you get a product that performs as expected and lasts.
Reputable Brands
Opt for well-known and trusted battery brands. Companies like Energizer, Duracell, Panasonic, Sony, and Maxell have a long history of producing reliable power cells. These brands typically adhere to strict quality control standards, ensuring consistent performance and safety. While store brands or less-known manufacturers might be cheaper, they can sometimes suffer from shorter lifespans or inconsistent voltage output, which could affect the performance of your sensitive electronics. For crucial devices, sticking with a recognized brand is often worth the small premium.
Packaging and Freshness
CR1620 batteries are usually sold in blister packs, which help protect them and keep them from shorting out. Always check the expiration date printed on the packaging. Batteries are consumables, and while they have a long shelf life, buying older stock will result in reduced performance. Ensure the packaging is intact and the batteries look clean and free from corrosion.
Value vs. Cost
The ‘near me’ search often implies an immediate need, which can sometimes lead to purchasing the first battery available, regardless of price. However, consider the value proposition. Buying a single battery at a convenience store might cost $3-$5, whereas a multi-pack from a larger retailer or online could bring the per-battery cost down to $1-$2. For devices that use CR1620 batteries regularly, investing in a multi-pack is more economical in the long run. This cost-saving is relevant for residents and businesses across the United States.
Compatibility
While the CR1620 is a standard size, always double-check your device’s manual or the battery it currently uses to confirm compatibility. Some devices might have specific requirements or use slightly different but similar-looking batteries (e.g., CR1616, CR1632, CR2016, CR2020). Ensuring you have the exact CR1620 is crucial for proper device function and to avoid potential damage.
Powering Your Devices: Battery Replacement Tips
Replacing a CR1620 battery is usually a straightforward process, but a few tips can make it smoother and safer, especially when you’ve just found ‘CR1620 battery near me’ and made your purchase in Irvine. Always refer to your device’s manual for specific instructions, as compartments vary.
Locating the Battery Compartment
For key fobs, it’s often a small panel on the back that slides or pries open. For other devices like scales or thermometers, look for a small circular or rectangular cover on the underside or back. Sometimes, a tiny screw needs to be removed.
Opening the Compartment
Use a small, flat-head screwdriver or a plastic prying tool to gently open the compartment. Avoid using excessive force, which can break plastic clips or damage the device. For key fobs, a fingernail or a small coin might be sufficient.
Removing the Old Battery
Note the orientation of the old battery. Typically, the positive (+) side faces up. Carefully remove the old battery. You can use a small plastic tool or a non-metallic object to gently push it out. Avoid using metal objects that could short-circuit the device.
Inserting the New Battery
Insert the new CR1620 battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards, aligning it with the markings inside the compartment. Ensure it sits securely and flush within the compartment. Some devices may have small springs or clips that need to hold the battery in place.
Closing the Compartment
Once the new battery is correctly inserted, snap or screw the compartment cover back into place. Ensure it is securely closed to protect the battery and internal components from dust and moisture. Test the device immediately to confirm the new battery is working.
Disposal of Old Batteries
Properly disposing of used CR1620 batteries is important for environmental protection. Many retailers, including electronics stores and large supermarkets in Irvine, United States, offer battery recycling drop-off points. Avoid throwing them in regular household trash.
The Importance of Reliable Power in Irvine’s Tech Ecosystem
Irvine, California, is renowned for its vibrant technology sector, boasting a high concentration of tech companies, research institutions like the University of California, Irvine, and a thriving startup scene. In such an environment, the reliability of even the smallest components, like CR1620 batteries, plays a significant role. A sudden power loss in a critical device ? whether it’s a researcher’s portable sensor, a developer’s prototype, or a smart home device essential for daily life ? can disrupt workflows, cause data loss, or lead to inconvenience. Knowing where to find a ‘CR1620 battery near me’ quickly is therefore not just about convenience; it’s about maintaining productivity and functionality in a city that thrives on innovation and efficiency. Businesses and individuals across the United States face similar challenges, underscoring the need for accessible and reliable power solutions.
Supporting Innovation and Daily Life
From smart thermostats that manage energy in Irvine homes to wearable fitness trackers monitoring health, CR1620 batteries are silent enablers. For companies developing new gadgets or maintaining existing product lines, a consistent supply of quality batteries is crucial. Maiyam Group, a premier dealer in strategic minerals and commodities from the DR Congo, understands the foundational importance of raw materials like lithium, which are essential for batteries powering modern devices. While they deal with large-scale mineral supply for global industries, the principle remains the same: reliable sourcing of essential components is key to technological advancement and daily convenience. This ensures that the infrastructure supporting everyday life and cutting-edge innovation remains powered.
Preparing for the Future in 2026
As technology continues to evolve, the demand for compact, high-performance batteries like the CR1620 will likely persist. Innovations in miniaturization mean more devices will incorporate these small power sources. Being prepared by knowing where to source them, and by choosing quality products, is a small but significant aspect of navigating the technological landscape of 2026 and beyond. Whether you’re in Irvine, or anywhere else in the United States, having a plan for battery replacements ensures your essential devices remain operational.
Frequently Asked Questions About CR1620 Batteries
Where can I find a CR1620 battery near me in Irvine, California?
What devices commonly use a CR1620 battery?
Are all CR1620 batteries the same quality?
How do I replace a CR1620 battery in my device?
Can I buy CR1620 batteries in bulk in the United States?
What is the voltage of a CR1620 battery?
Conclusion: Powering Your Irvine Lifestyle with the Right CR1620 Battery
Finding a CR1620 battery in Irvine, California, is generally straightforward, thanks to the city’s abundant retail options. Whether you’re facing a dead key fob mid-errand or need to power a home gadget, electronics stores, supermarkets, and drugstores in Irvine, United States, are well-equipped to meet your needs. Remember to choose reputable brands like Energizer or Panasonic for reliable performance and check expiration dates to ensure maximum longevity. For those looking to save money or simply be better prepared for 2026 and beyond, purchasing multi-packs from online retailers offers excellent value. Understanding the specifications of the CR1620 battery ? its 16mm diameter, 2.0mm thickness, and 3V output ? ensures you select the correct power source for your devices. Proper replacement and disposal are also key to maintaining device function and environmental responsibility. In the technologically driven landscape of Irvine and across the United States, even the smallest components like the CR1620 battery are essential for keeping our lives running smoothly.
Key Takeaways:
- CR1620 batteries are 3V lithium coin cells, 16mm in diameter and 2.0mm thick.
- Commonly found in key fobs, scales, thermometers, and small electronics.
- Available in Irvine at electronics stores, supermarkets, and drugstores.
- Choose reputable brands for reliability and check expiration dates.
- Consider multi-packs for cost savings and preparedness in 2026.
- Proper replacement and disposal are crucial for device function and environment.
