FAQ: Battery and power management (Standalone)
Q2How long can a node operate without a battery fitted?
The Hybrid Pulse Capacitor (HPC) can sustain the node without a D-Cell battery for up to approximately one week.
Q3Can I use a 17 Ah battery instead of the recommended 19 Ah?
Yes: however, the lower capacity will result in a shorter battery lifespan relative to the standard 19 Ah rating.
Q4What battery brands does Ackcio recommend?
Use 3.6 V, 19 Ah ER34615 D-Cell batteries from the following approved brands:
- Sunmoon ER34615
- BP Sunmoon ER34615
- EVE ER34615
- BP EVE ER34615
- Tadiran ER34615
- Saft ER34615
Always use batteries manufactured within the last 3 months for optimal performance.
Q5Do all battery slots need to be filled for a node to function?
No. A node operates with just one battery installed. Additional slots serve as backup to extend runtime.
Q6Which node type consumes the most battery power?
In order of power consumption (highest to lowest):
- DG (Digital) Node: Highest consumption
- AN (Analogue) Node: Moderate consumption
- VW (Vibrating Wire) Node: Lowest consumption
Q9What causes faster-than-expected battery drain?
The following factors commonly accelerate battery consumption:
- Weak network: repeated reconnection attempts drain power.
- Parent node load: acting as a relay for many child nodes increases current draw.
- Extreme temperatures: very hot or cold environments degrade battery output.
- Non-recommended brands: batteries not meeting the 3.6 V / 19 Ah / ER34615 spec.
- Old or improperly stored batteries: manufactured >3 months ago or stored outside optimal temperature.
- High sampling rates: frequent sense-and-transmit cycles increase consumption.
- For Analogue nodes: excitation time exceeding 2 seconds adds significant drain.
Q10Can DG, ANS4, and VWS8 nodes run on a single D-Cell?
Yes. All three node types are designed for single D-Cell operation. Extra battery slots provide extended backup runtime only.
Q12What is the ideal battery storage and handling practice?
To maximise battery life and node reliability:
- Store batteries in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight.
- Use batteries within 3 months of manufacture for best performance.
- Never mix old and new batteries in the same node.
- Dispose of depleted batteries responsibly according to local regulations.
LiSOCl₂ batteries (ER34615) are non-rechargeable: do not attempt to recharge them.