LTC4010CFE#PBF

The LTC4010CFE#PBF from Analog Devices (AD) is a cost-effective, high-efficiency standalone nickel battery charger designed for 1 to 16 cells. This IC integrates a 550kHz PWM current source controller and all necessary charge initiation, monitoring, and termination circuitry, requiring few external components.

Key electrical specifications include a wide input voltage range of 5.5V to 34V and programmable charge current with 5% accuracy. The device automatically senses DC adapter and battery insertion or removal, entering shutdown when no external DC source is present to minimize battery drain. It supports automatic trickle precharge for heavily discharged batteries and can utilize both –∆V and ∆T/∆t fast charge termination techniques.

Additional features include automatic NiMH top-off charge, programmable timer, automatic recharge capability, and multiple status outputs. The LTC4010CFE#PBF is suitable for applications such as portable instruments, consumer products, battery-powered diagnostics, and back-up battery management. It comes in a 16-lead thermally enhanced TSSOP package suitable for surface mount applications.

This charger IC requires no microcontroller or firmware, simplifying design and reducing system cost. It is designed to detect various battery faults and can operate with optional temperature qualification. The pin-selectable termination parameters allow for customization for NiMH or NiCd fast charging.