BQ24650

The BQ24650 from Texas Instruments is a sophisticated, highly integrated switch-mode battery charge controller. It is specifically designed for solar-powered applications, offering Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) capability through input voltage regulation to maximize power output from solar panels.

This device supports a wide input voltage range from 5V to 28V, making it versatile for different solar panel configurations. It accommodates multiple battery chemistries including Li-Ion/Polymer, LiFePO4, and lead-acid batteries. Key electrical specifications include a maximum charge current of 10A, ±0.5% charge voltage regulation accuracy, ±3% charge current regulation accuracy, and ±0.6% input voltage regulation accuracy.

The BQ24650 operates as a 600-kHz NMOS-NMOS synchronous buck controller. It includes safety features such as input overvoltage protection, battery temperature sensing, battery absent detection, and thermal shutdown. The charge status outputs are suitable for LED indication or host processor monitoring. It is housed in a compact 3.5mm x 3.5mm 16-pin QFN package, suitable for space-constrained designs.

Applications for the BQ24650 include solar-powered devices, remote monitoring stations, portable instruments, and 12V to 24V automotive systems. Its automatic sleep mode ensures low power consumption with less than 15-μA OFF-state battery discharge current.