From correspondents in Delhi, India, 11:10 AM IST

Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, has announced the MCP73871 charge-management controller - a Li-Ion/Li-Polymer charger with an intelligent charge management feature that enables simultaneous AC-DC-adapter or USB-port charging and powering of devices. The single-chip charger features an integrated pass transistor, and numerous battery and termination-voltage options - making it ideal for complex, space-constrained portable applications.

By enabling electronic devices to be simultaneously powered and charged via either an AC-to-DC adapter or through a USB port, the MCP73871 charge-management controller simplifies the charging and powering of today's portable electronic devices. With highly accurate voltage regulation of 0.5%, the new charger extends battery life by allowing the battery to be charged closer to its optimal limit. Additionally, with its integrated pass transistor, the charger eliminates the need for an external FET, and only a few small passive components are necessary. This results in smaller, less complex and less expensive designs.

"Our customers have requested a compact, single-chip charger to meet the needs of today’s advanced portable consumer-electronic devices, many of which now offer traditional wall-plug charging, plus USB port charging and connectivity," said Bryan Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip's Analog and Interface Products Division. "The MCP73871 charger meets these needs, head on. Microchip's battery-charger offering now includes products that provide everything from simple, USB-based battery charging, to complex power-path solutions."

The MCP73871 charge-management controller is ideal for portable consumer electronic products, such as GPS units, phone chargers, toys, cameras, PDAs, Bluetooth headsets, and many more.

Development tool support

Microchip also announced the MCP73871 Evaluation Board today (Part # MCP73871EV), to help engineers get started using the new charger in their designs. The board is available today at www.microchipdirect.com.

Device packaging & availability

The MCP73871 charger is available in a 20-pin, 4 mm x 4 mm QFN package. Samples are available today, at http://sample.microchip.com. Volume production quantities of the charger can be ordered now, at www.microchipdirect.com.

For further information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorised worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip's Web site at www.microchip.com/mcp73871.

Source: Press Release Distribution via India PRwire