Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4008, a 4A multi-cell, multi-chemistry battery pack charger with a solution size of only 5.6cm?(50% smaller than conventional high power battery charger designs). The LTC4008 also reduces the cost of a charger design by eliminating the need for more than 40% of the discrete components. The IC high efficiency operation from high input voltage and low dropout power conversion allow a designer to optimize the choice of an AC/DC adapter based on size, cost and weight. The LTC4008 includes I/O signals for simple reporting of the system status, which a microcontroller can then use for precision gas gauging, power management and comprehensive display of the charging condition. When interfaced with a microcontroller, the LTC4008 is capable of charging NiCd, NiMH and sealed lead-acid batteries as well as Li-Ion. Typical applications include battery charger cradles, uninterruptible power supplies, portable data terminals and notebook PCs.

The LTC4008 drives external MOSFETs synchronously to achieve over 95% efficiency even when operating from high input voltage and delivering up to 4A of charge current. Unlike many industry standard battery chargers, the LTC4008 guarantees no audible noise operation with all types of output capacitors including ceramic. Charging current is programmable to accuracy with external resistors. The LTC4008 AC adapter current limit allows an end product, such as a notebook PC, to operate simultaneously as the battery pack is being charged at the maximum rate without overloading the AC adapter. Moreover, the LTC4008 includes a thermistor sensor input that will suspend charging if an unsafe temperature condition is detected and will automatically resumes charging when battery temperature returns to within safe limits.

The LTC4008 is offered in a 20-pin SSOP package. Pricing for 1,000-quantity starts at $3.70 each.

Summary of Features: LTC4008
General Purpose Battery Charger Controller
Small Solution of 5.6cm?/li>
50% Less Discrete Components: Capacitors, Resistors, and Diodes
Indicator Outputs for Charging, C/10, Current Detection, AC Adapter Present, Input Current Limiting and Faults
Precision 4% Charge Current
?.8% Voltage Accuracy
AC Adapter Current Limiting Maximizes Charge Rate without Overloading AC Adapter
Wide Input Voltage Range form 6V to 28V
Wide Output Voltage Range from 3V to 28V
Small 20-Pin SSOP