Charge Management ICs Cut Heat Generated In Portables

Said to reduce heat generated in portable systems by up to 70% compared to linear chargers, the bq2420x family of charge management ICs integrate the charge-control MOSFET and current sensor in an eight-pin MSOP. The devices are rated for charge applications up to 500 mA. The charge cycle is completed in three phases: conditioning, current-limit, and constant voltage. Charge is terminated when a minimum current is reached or if the battery fails to reach minimum voltage levels after a specified time. Prices start at $1.48 each/1,000. TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC., Santa Clarita, CA. (800) 477-8924.