A dummy coin-cell that replaces a CR1632 coin cell in your circuit-under-test. A simple but precise little item that makes a tedious task like injecting external power or measuring current much easier.

See also other sizes in my Tindie shop (2032, 2450, AA, AAA or 18650)

What is it?

It's a simple dummy coin-cell that allows you to test a circuit without soldering or rigging up awkward wires another way. In a new custom circuit, you might have a surprise short that you might not notice when you power up with a real CR1632 coin cell. But with a current-limited supply you can catch it before it becomes a problem. You can also easily use it with a meter in series to test the current consumption of your device or circuit. A simpler application is using one to power a circuit from another battery pack, maybe to provide longer life. It's great when your device is in an awkward location.

A 3D-printed disc of precise size, with a copper wire-threading route that covers all the key contact points that various coin-cell holders need. (There are many different battery-holders on the market, so you may need to rotate the dummy cell a bit in the holder to get optimal contact).

A CR1632 sized coin cell is 16mm x 3.2mm.

Why did you make it?

I needed to test current consumption in a battery-powered device. Later I wanted to rig up a longer-lived battery supply (eg AA cells) instead of the coin cell. This 3D-printed little item let me do those things quick and easy.

What makes it special?

It's easy to use and understand and solves a problem that is quite tedious any other way... and for very low cost. It has positive contact on one side plus the edges, negative on the other side, just like a real coin cell. The alternative test situation is to solder wires onto your board, or onto a battery (dangerous!) or using awkward clips that are difficult to attach to small circuits or which require disassembly. With this little dummy cell, you just slide it in and you're in business. Shipped pre-threaded with solid 24AWG wire and 10cm (4") long wire tails, so you don't have to do the fiddly bit. If you anticipate lots of movement, you should probably connect stranded wire to the solid-wire tails that come out of the surrogate cell.

The item will probably be either grey or white depending on the 3D printing filament handy. Maybe something more colourful in some cases?