Varta High Energy 9V bloc

An alkaline 9 volt block battery from Varta. The only size in this range that does not give 1.5 volts, and the only one that is not really a battery but a collection.

Six cells in a tin

The IEC designation gives it away: 6LR61 means six LR61 cells in series. Each delivers 1.5 volts and six in a row give the 9 volts the device wants. All of it sits in one casing with two terminals on top.

Something practical follows from that. A chain is as strong as its weakest link, so a 9 volt block holds its voltage reasonably long and then drops away fairly suddenly. Where an AA fades gradually, a 9 volt often quits without much warning. On a measuring instrument you notice: it works, and then it does not.

What takes them

In this range 9 volt is the size of multimeters and part of the measuring equipment. Outside the grow room you know it from smoke alarms. Keep a spare for anything you rely on, precisely because the end arrives so abruptly.

Terminals

The two terminals sit close together and stand proud. Do not store loose blocks with coins or keys: a short between those terminals makes the battery warm and flat. Leaving the packaging on until use solves it.

Technical Specifications:

• Brand: Varta High Energy
• Varta type: 04922
• IEC: 6LP3146
• Size: 9V block
• Voltage: 9 V
• System: alkaline manganese (Zn/MnO2)
• Height: 48.5 mm
• Weight: 46 g
• Also known as: MN1604, PP3-HP, 006P, 6LR61, 6LF22, 6LF62

Frequently asked questions

Why does my 9 volt quit so suddenly? Because it is six cells in series. The voltage holds up for a long time and then falls away quickly, unlike a single cell.

Which names refer to the same battery? Among others 6LR61, 6LF22, MN1604, 006P and PP3. All the same size.

How should I store loose blocks? In the packaging, and not loose among metal. The two terminals sit close together and can short.

Can I recharge it? No, this is a single-use alkaline cell. Rechargeable 9 volt blocks exist, but this is not one.