Intelligent charge controller supports various power levels

The LC709501F determines what type of device is connected and automatically selects the fastest available method for charging. Advanced users can even reprogramme the LC709501F to support custom charge/discharge profiles, as well as USB Type-C and PD 'Policy Engine' functions. This single-chip solution includes integrated fuel gauge function, configurable I/O, LED drivers, I2C interface, and pre-drivers for external power MOSFETs, providing system flexibility. A design reference kit is available to realise fast time to market. The LC709501F supports various output power levels up to 30W, by changing external MOSFETs. In addition, there is an integrated USB 2.0 Full Speed host controller.

The LC709501F’s USB host controller supports connectivity with iOS and Android apps that enable the device to communicate with the connected smartphone and subsequently make use of its display to show information concerning the battery health and the charging process (charging time, battery life, number of charging cycles completed, etc.) The device works with the proprietary charging protocols (such as Fast Charge and Qualcomm Quick Charge) now being utilised by smartphone manufacturers to accelerate the charging period. To ensure operational longevity, over-current, over-voltage, and redundant battery protection mechanisms are all included, as well as a thermistor for monitoring of temperature levels. The LC709501F supports an operational temperature range of -40 to +85°C.

“With a growing need for on-the-go recharging of portable electronics, power banks are certain to become more prevalent over the coming years,” stated Matthew Tyler, Director Strategy and Product Roadmap Definition of the Digital and DC/DC Division at ON Semiconductor. “Accurate and reliable charge capacity indication and the ability to support the latest quick charging standards are becoming more critical, especially as power bank capacities have grown over time. The level of sophistication that power banks possess is destined to increase, so that batteries can be replenished as quickly as possible and inconvenience is minimised. The best-in-class LC709501F charger will enable the creation of compact, highly efficient, feature-rich power banks that will simplify and accelerate time-to-market of next generation power bank solutions. Its breadth of functionality will enhance the user experience and mean that high degrees of safety are maintained.”