Microchip Announces Single-Cell, 1A Li-Ion/Polymer Chargers

Microchip Technology Announces Single-Cell, High-Current (1A)

Li-Ion/Li-Polymer Charge-Management Controllers

Fully Integrated Chargers Support Multiple Regulated Output Voltages and

Offer On-Chip Safety Features in Small, MSOP and 3 mm x 3 mm DFN Packages

CHANDLER, Ariz., Oct. 3, 2006 [NASDAQ: MCHP] — Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, today announced the MCP73833 and MCP73834 (MCP73833/4) single-cell, high current (1 Ampere [A]), Li-Ion/Li-Polymer linear charge-management controllers. These fully integrated charge-management controllers combine several key, standard charge-management and safety features in a single chip for reliable charging of high-capacity Li-Ion and Li-Polymer batteries. Available in small MSOP and thermally efficient 3 mm x 3 mm DFN packages, the MCP73833/4 chargers enable smarter, faster and safer battery- charger designs.

Because they combine a pass transistor, current-sense and reverse-discharge protection on a single chip, the MCP73833/4 charge-management controllers eliminate the need for external components and enable smaller, more integrated charging solutions. Multiple combinations of key charging parameters, including pre-conditioning current threshold and ratio, charge-termination threshold and recharge threshold ratio are available, meaning the devices provide standard product support for a variety of high-current Li-Ion/Li-Polymer battery charger applications. Additionally, with high charging currents of up to 1A and support for multiple regulated output voltages (4.2V, 4.35V, 4.4V and 4.5V), the devices can be used with early generation batteries where output voltages are lower, as well as newer batteries where output voltages are higher.

“Because different applications require different battery-charging voltage and current levels for ideal operation, our customers have requested chargers with better combinations of performance and safety features,” said Keith Pazul, senior product marketing manager for Microchip’s Analog and Interface Products Division.

“With their ideal combination of high integration, high charging current, multiple standard parameter options and safety features in small, thermally efficient packages, the MCP73833/4 chargers meet these needs. At the same time, they help customers to keep costs low and get their products to market faster.”

Safety features onboard the MCP73833/4 include charge timers, battery-temperature feedback and thermal-current regulation. The charge timer shuts the charger off if a charge is not terminated before timeout is reached. The battery-temperature feedback reduces the charge current when the battery’s temperature exceeds safe levels. The thermal-current regulation feature decreases the charge current when the device reaches its thermal limits. All of these safety features keep the battery from overcharging and overheating.

Device-specific features include a power-good output on the MCP73833 and a timer-enable input on the MCP73834. The timer-enable input can disable the timer when the battery is charged at the same time that current is supplied to the system. Both devices offer a low dropout regulator (LDO) test mode that enables application system test even in the absence of a battery; and both feature two status outputs to provide the user with additional information about the battery chargers state. These features help to prevent battery-related system damage, resulting in safer, more efficient and more reliable charger designs.

Example applications for the MCP73833/4 charge-management controllers include consumer electronic devices such as portable DVD players, personal media players (PMPs) and portable GPS systems.

Development Tool Support

To support development using the MCP73833/4 charge-management controllers, Microchip offers the MCP73833 Li-Ion Battery Charger Evaluation Board (Part # MCP73833EV). The board is priced at $20 and can be ordered today at www.microchipdirect.com.

Device Packaging, Pricing and Availability

The MCP73833/4 charge-management controllers are available in 10-pin MSOP and DFN (3 mm x 3 mm) packages. Sampling is available today at http://sample.microchip.com. Volume production orders are received today at www.microchipdirect.com. The devices are priced at $.87 each in 10,000-unit quantities for all devices and package options.

For additional information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip’s Web site at www.microchip.com/MCP73833.

Note: The Microchip name and logo are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies.

**Photo and block diagram available through editorial contact**

Keywords:

Semiconductor Applications: Consumer; DVD Recorder/Player

Semiconductor Applications: Consumer; Audio; Portable Audio/MP3

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