CR123 rechargables, whats the difference?

[freewheelin']

I'm on the list for a Gatlight 3 and Mr Bulk Dragon both can use rechargable CR123 size batts. My confusion comes in where some are advertised at 3,0v and some at 3.7v. Are they the same batts that can peak at 3.7 or are they different batts? The Gatlights say they are designed for 3.7v lions.
I'm used to NCAD and NIMH butt these will be my first Lions. All I know for sure is I'll be using prootected cells.
Thanks for comments and suggestions.
Mike

 

[mdocod]

the 3.0V cells use the exact same chemistry as a 3.7V cell, in fact, the cell itself IS 3.7V. They have a voltage regulator slapped on the end of em to give you the 3.0V.. Works ok for some applications but should be avoided whenever possible. If your light says it's ok to use a pair of 3.7V cells, then pick up 2 RCR123 protected cells from AW. they have great protection circuits and perform well.

 

[Supernam]

It's because CR123 batteries were primarily made for cameras. When rechargeable lithium ions came about in the same size, they advertised them as 3 volts so that consumers would see that they can use them in their cameras. Cameras' and flashlights' circuits are different of course, therefore one must use caution when shoving them into their flashlights. As mdocod mentioned above, there ARE a rare breed of LIR 3.0 volts out there, however it may be difficult to distinguish the two simply by their exterior wrapping and advertising.

 

[bridgman]

There are also lithium phosphate rechargeables (LiFePO4, I think) which don't seem to need protection circuits and which run at around 3.2v natively rather than 3.7v. AW sells some on his main sales thread. This thread talks specifically about the LiFePO4 cells :

http://candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?t=125353

 

[freewheelin']

Thanx all, I think I'll just get a pair to tey in the lights I mentioned as they say the are optimized for 3.7 and only plann to use them in 1 cell LED applications till several new Batts. are worked out.