HL6.SEP–Benchmarq–rp
IC fast charges both NiCd and NiMH batteries
Device uses temperature-slope sensing for fast-charge termination
The bq2003 is offered as the first IC for fast charging nickel metal
hydride (NiMH), nickel cadmium (NiCd), and lead-acid batteries. According
to the company, the chip enables safe and reliable charge-termination
schemes, upgrades to new NiMH battery technology without redesign, and
efficient power conversion from standard sources. System designs using
the bq2003 can automatically use excess power supply current to
variable-rate charge the batteries. The device supports charge rates of 1
to 1.5 hours for NiMH and as fast as 10 to 20 minutes for appropriate NiCd
batteries. The bq2003 calculates the slope of the battery temperature
rise curve and uses the rapid temperature increase associated with fully
charged batteries to terminate charging quickly when the rate of increase
is outside predetermined limits. In addition, the device terminates
charging based on the more traditional negative delta voltage detection,
as well as maximum temperature, maximum charge time, and maximum battery
voltage. The bq2003 addresses power-conversion problems associated with
recharging batteries by providing flexible current regulation. The device
can be used as a frequency-modulated controller for switched regulation of
the charging current, or be used with a transistor or SCR to gate an
external charging current. The bq2003 is available in 16-pin DIPs and SO
packages. (From $4 ea/1,000–available now.) Benchmarq Microelectronics,
Inc. Carrollton, TX David Heacock 214-407-0011 Fax 214-407-9845 EEM
FILE 3130 David Heacock, Product Marketing Manager, 2611 Westgrove Dr.,
Suite 101, 75006
CAPTION:
The bq2003 supports fast charge and conditioning of NiCd, NiMH, or
lead-acid batteries.
Advertisement
