Battery-Monitoring IC Integrates High-Side, Current-Sense Resistor

Designed for cost-sensitive, lithium-ion applications, the DS2741 current monitor/accumulator is said to be the first battery-monitoring IC to incorporate a high-side, current-sense resistor. The device’s unique topology allows users to connect the DS2741 directly to the power source to detect downstream failures and trigger appropriate corrective action. It also avoids the ground disturbance associated with low-side, current-sense designs. In order to support adjustments to battery-capacity estimates based on temperature, the device integrates a sensor that measures temperature over the ?20°C to 70°C operating range with a resolution of ±1°C. The device consumes 60 µA (typical) during active operation and only 1 µA (typical) in low-power sleep mode. The DS2741 comes in a 3- by 3-mm, 14-pin TDFN package. Prices start at $1.45 for quantities of 1000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.