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Arts: replacement battery packs for emergency lamps
When an emergency bulkhead light no longer holds a charge, in the vast majority of cases there is no need to replace the fixture: the electronics last much longer than the battery pack. Simply change the battery, and Arts packs cover the most common configurations found in Italian systems, with a pre-wired Molex connector and therefore no soldering required.
The three sizes in the range
| Voltage | Cells | Capacity | Terminal |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6V | 3 SC cells | 1600 mAh | Molex ST4 connector |
| 4.8V | 4 SC cells | 1600 mAh | Molex connector |
| 6V | 5 SC cells | 1600 mAh | Molex connector |
How to read it: the voltage depends on the number of cells in series, because each NiCd cell provides 1.2V. Three cells make 3.6V, four make 4.8V, five make 6V. The SC (sub-C) code indicates the cylinder size, which is typical for emergency lighting packs.
Why NiCd and not NiMH
In emergency lamps, the pack remains constantly under charge for years, often in hot environments such as stairwells, garages, and dropped ceilings. In these conditions, NiCd is more tolerant: it handles continuous charging, deep discharges, and high temperatures better. This is why it remains the standard for these devices, even though NiMH offers higher capacity for the same size.
Pro-tip. Before ordering, open the fixture and take a photo of the connector. On these packs, voltage and capacity often match between different models: the difference lies in the connector, and that is where time is wasted. If it is a Molex, count the pins and check which side the cable exits from. With that photo, we can tell you in a minute if it is the correct replacement. After installation, leave the lamp connected to the mains for 24 hours before testing it: the first full charge cycle is necessary, and a test performed immediately will give a distorted result.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which pack I need?
Voltage and capacity are printed on the old pack. Check those two pieces of data and, above all, the type of connector: these are the three elements that must match for the replacement to work and be installable.
Can I use a higher capacity?
Yes, as long as the voltage, size, and connector remain identical: more mAh simply means longer autonomy and a longer recharge time. The voltage, however, must match exactly.
How often should the battery be replaced?
Under normal conditions after 3–5 years, or less if the fixture is installed in a hot environment. The warning sign is the autonomy: if during the test the lamp does not last for the stated time, the pack is at the end of its life even if the charge indicator light remains on.
The new battery arrives discharged: is that normal?
Yes. NiCd and NiMH batteries naturally self-discharge during storage; this is not a defect. They must be fully charged before the first functional test.
Can I replace it myself?
Replacing the pack on a device disconnected from the mains is within the reach of anyone with good manual skills, which is why these replacements come with a pre-wired connector. Any work on the fixed electrical system, however, must be performed by qualified personnel.
See also rechargeable batteries, emergency lamps, and all batteries.
