General Description

The MAX846A is a cost-saving multichemistry battery charger system that comes in a space-saving 16-pin QSOP. This integrated system allows different battery chemistries (Li-Ion, NiMH or NiCd cells) to be charged using one circuit.

In its simplest application, the MAX846A is a stand alone, current-limited float voltage source that charges Li-Ion cells. It can also be paired up with a low-cost microcontroller (μC) to build a universal charger capable of charging Li-Ion, NiMH, and NiCd cells.

Features

? Multichemistry Charger System (Li-Ion, NiMH, NiCd)

? Independent Voltage and Current Loops

? ±0.5% Internal Reference for Li-Ion Cells

? Lowers Cost:

?? —Stands Alone or Uses Low-Cost μC

?? —Built-In 1% Linear Regulator Powers μC

?? —Linear Regulator Provides Reference to μC ADCs

?? —Built-In μC Reset

?? —Controls Low-Cost External PNP Transistor or

????? P-Channel MOSFET

? Space-Saving 16-Pin QSOP

? Charging-Current-Monitor Output

?

Applications

?? Li-Ion Battery Packs

?? Desktop Cradle Chargers

?? Li-Ion/NiMH/NiCd Multichemistry Battery Chargers

?? Cellular Phones

?? Notebook Computers

?? Hand-Held Instruments