Li-ion 18650 battery packs for security system

Security systems—whether for homes, businesses, or industrial facilities—rely heavily on uninterrupted power to keep surveillance and alarm equipment operational. Li-ion 18650 battery packs have become the preferred power source due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and compact form factor. However, like all advanced technologies, they require proper handling and integration to perform safely and effectively.

At HIMAX Electronics, we specialize in designing and assembling high-performance Li-ion battery packs tailored for critical applications like security systems. In this article, we’ll outline the key points you need to pay attention to when using 18650 lithium-ion battery packs in your security solutions.

1. Battery Pack Design and Configuration

Each security system has different power demands based on camera quantity, data transmission, and backup requirements. Choosing the right series-parallel configuration of 18650 cells is essential:

Voltage Requirements:Most systems run on 12V or 24V, which means using a 3S or 7S configuration respectively.
Capacity and Runtime:Evaluate the amp-hour rating needed to keep your system running during outages. HIMAX Electronics offers custom 18650 packs up to 20Ah or more for extended runtime.

Tip: Always balance power requirements with physical space availability in enclosures.

2. Incorporation of a Smart Battery Management System (BMS)

A high-quality BMS is non-negotiable for safety and performance. HIMAX Electronics integrates intelligent BMS modules into every 18650 pack we produce to:

Prevent overcharging, overdischarging, and short circuits
Enable cell balancing to maximize lifespan
Support communication protocols (UART, CAN, SMBus) for remote monitoring

Important: Never use a pack without a properly rated BMS—doing so can risk fire or permanent system damage.

3. Thermal Management and Placement

Security systems often operate in confined, weatherproof enclosures or attics where heat buildup is an issue. 18650 batteries are sensitive to high temperatures.

Ideal Operating Temperature:0°C to 45°C (charge), -20°C to 60°C (discharge)
Avoid placing packs near heat-generating electronics or under direct sunlight
Consider passive or active cooling methods for high-load systems

HIMAX Electronics also offers temperature-sensor integrated BMS for enhanced safety shutdowns.

4. Regular Maintenance and Monitoring

Even the best 18650 packs degrade over time. Set up routine inspection and software-based battery health monitoring to detect:

Voltage imbalance between cells
Capacity fade
Abnormal charging/discharging rates

Some HIMAX smart packs include app or PC software interfaces to allow real-time diagnostics.

5. Storage and Backup Power Readiness

Security systems must be ready 24/7—even after weeks or months of low activity. Ensure:

Packs are stored at 40–60% state of charge if unused for long periods
Recharge every 3–6 months to avoid deep discharge
Always test the system’s backup runtime quarterly

HIMAX Electronics uses low self-discharge cells and industrial-grade assembly to maintain long-term stability in standby mode.

6. Certifications and Compliance

Security systems often fall under building safety regulations. Use certified batteries to ensure regulatory compliance:

3 for transportation
IEC62133 for safety
CE/RoHS for environmental compliance

HIMAX Electronics ensures every battery pack complies with international standards, helping integrators and installers pass inspections with confidence.

Conclusion

Using Li-ion 18650 battery packs in security systems offers outstanding benefits—but only when properly designed, integrated, and maintained. At HIMAX Electronics, we understand the critical importance of reliability in life-safety systems. That’s why we engineer our battery packs with precision, safety, and long-term performance in mind.

For custom battery solutions tailored to your security system’s requirements, contact HIMAX Electronics today. Our engineers are ready to help you power your peace of mind.