paristokotelo

Paristokotelo, literally “battery holder” in Finnish, is a component used in electronics to securely hold one or more batteries and provide electrical connections to a circuit. It is designed to accommodate common cell formats, such as cylindrical batteries (AA, AAA, C, D) and button/coin cells, and to keep them in place during handling and operation.

There are several common variants. Cylindrical cell holders typically use springs to contact the battery terminals, with one end forming the positive contact and the other a fixed negative contact. Coin cell holders usually employ flat, springy contacts or snaps that press against the battery’s flat faces. Battery holders can be standalone chassis components, PCB-mounted units with leads for through-hole or surface-mount assembly, or integrated into a plastic enclosure.

Construction and mounting materials vary. The housing is commonly made from durable plastics such as ABS or polycarbonate, while contacts are made from phosphor bronze or beryllium copper, often nickel-plated to resist corrosion. Some designs include insulating spacers, polarity markings, and locking features to prevent accidental removal.

Electrical and mechanical considerations include contact reliability, contact force, resistance, and corrosion resistance. Holders are designed to minimize voltage drop and ensure stable connections across temperature and vibration. They may incorporate safety features such as insulation barriers to prevent short circuits and clear labeling for battery orientation.

Common applications include remote controls, toys, flashlights, sensors, medical devices, and other portable electronics. Selection depends on battery size, number of cells, mounting method, and environmental requirements.