Batteries for Asset Tracking Applications

Devices for tracking assets and vehicle fleets such as GPS devices and various asset tracking devices are used by many businesses worldwide. The use of asset tracking systems allows businesses to get real-time data on the location of vehicles and valuable assets which helps improve productivity and reduce operational costs, boosting profitability. While asset tracking devices have revolutionized the way shipments and other assets are tracked, the one limiting factor is keeping the devices powered.

At Nichicon, we produce lithium titanium-oxide (LTO) batteries that can be used to reliably power GPS devices and other asset tracking devices. Our LTO batteries can provide sustained, high-power output with rapid charge and discharge capabilities to be a reliable internal power source for asset trackers.

What is an Asset Tracking Device Battery?

An asset tracking device battery is a battery that can efficiently power asset trackers and GPS devices. Many of the asset tracking devices being used are wireless which means that they rely on an internal power source to operate. Businesses need to be able to track assets in real-time which makes it extremely important for the batteries used in asset trackers to be able to provide dependable, long-lasting power.

Nichicon provides LTO batteries for asset tracking devices with high-power output and fast charge/ discharge capabilities for rapid energy transfer. The small size of our LTO batteries makes them an ideal fit for small asset tracking devices and they can charge and discharge very quickly with no significant degradation of their capacity. They can be energized from multiple types of energy harvesting devices such as light, RF, vibration, etc. These qualities make our LTO batteries maintenance free and they seldom require replacement, making them a dependable cost effective option for asset tracking devices that reduce the total cost of ownership.

What Makes Nichicon Batteries Great for Asset Tracking Devices?

The high-power output and rapid charge and discharge capabilities make our LTO batteries a great option for powering GPS and asset tracking devices. Not only do our LTO batteries provide dependable power output, but they also have a cycle life of over 25,000 charge/ discharge cycles, which means they can provide dependable power for a prolonged period of time.

The following are the main characteristics that make our LTO batteries an effective solution for asset tracking applications:

Rapid charging: The rapid charge/ discharge qualities of our LTO batteries allow for uninterrupted power in asset tracking devices as these batteries can charge in as little as 3 minutes.
Small-size: Our LTO battery has diameters ranging from 3 to 12.5 millimeters with a small footprint which makes them ideal for use in small asset tracking devices.
Long Life: Our LTO batteries have a cycle life of more than 25,000 charge/discharge cycles to be a long-lasting, dependable power source for asset trackers.
Maintenance free: No maintenance is required with our LTO batteries, and they rarely need to be replaced.
Sustainable: Our LTO batteries are RoHS compliant and meet all environmental standards for disposal and operation.
High energy density: The high energy density of our LTO batteries allows for dependable power output that will keep asset trackers functioning.
High safety: Our LTO batteries can safely operate in extreme conditions with little risk of ignition or explosion.
Low temperature: Our LTO batteries are able to charge and discharge in temperatures as low as -30°C, making them a safe solution for asset trackers exposed to the elements.
High power discharge: The discharge time for our LTO batteries is just 3 minutes which suits short discharge requirements.
UL 1642 & IEC 62133-2 certified
ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 certified

What is a Lithium Titanate Battery (LTO)?

The lithium titanate battery (LTO) shares many characteristics with the lithium-ion battery. One difference is the LTO anode. An LTO battery uses lithium titanate oxide, while a lithium-ion battery uses carbon. By using lithium titanate, the battery has a significant performance improvement.

How is placing the Nichicon SLB (LTO battery) on a PCB different than a Lithium Titanate or other battery?

The SLB is a battery with long leads, just like a standard capacitor. The leaded profile allows for soldering directly to the circuit board using hand soldering or a select solder technique. Lithium Titanate batteries require an additional mounting bracket or holder placed on a circuit board. The Nichicon SLB (LTO) take less board space allowing them to be used in very compact or densely populated circuit boards.

What is the difference between the Nichicon (SLB) LTO and Lithium Titanate batteries?

LTO batteries are safer; they have an extremely small risk of ignition if there is a short. The SLB, Nichicon’s LTO battery, has superior charge and discharge capabilities, such as a 20C charge rate. Even higher rates are possible with pulsed discharges, like those used in telecommunications.

What are the advantages of the Nichicon SLB series (LTO battery)?

‘The SLB can withstand up to 25,000 charge/discharge cycles and have a lower cold temperature rating than a lithium-ion battery. And its low internal resistance allows energy harvesters to charge with weak currents without loss. They will not ignite if a short occurs. In addition to the advantages previously mentioned, the SLB comes in aluminum electrolytic case styles and size.

What is the difference between LTO batteries and supercapacitors/electric double-layered capacitors?

LTO batteries provide a substantial increase in capacity and demonstrate minimal self-discharge, distinguishing them from electric double-layer capacitors and enabling prolonged discharge. Remarkably, smaller rechargeable LTO batteries offer an impressive 20-30-fold increase in energy density compared to equivalently sized electric double-layer capacitors. Leveraging this significant advantage, our LTO batteries present a viable alternative to electric double-layer capacitors, delivering consistent power output over extended periods.

What is the difference between LTO batteries and lithium-ion batteries?

Our LTO batteries stand out in terms of their rapid charging, discharging, and extended lifespan, surpassing the capabilities of typical lithium-ion batteries while ensuring enhanced safety. Conventional lithium-ion rechargeable batteries face difficulties in achieving high power discharge, but our LTO batteries effortlessly handle this challenge with exceptional charge/discharge performance and remarkably fast charging times. The ability of LTO batteries to charge rapidly makes them ideal for devices that require quick charging intervals or scenarios. Unlike lithium-ion batteries LTO batteries can also be charged with weaker or low charging currents.