Integrated circuit technology has enabled the development of power management integrated circuits (PMICs) for the management of battery power. The BQ29312PWRG4 from Texas Instruments is a one-cell, single-channel PMIC designed for alkaline, NiCd and NiMH chemistry batteries. It features a high-efficiency, low-power synchronous buck (step-down) DC-DC regulator with guaranteed 8 mA load current, direct load control input and two-level output voltage control. This one device provides embedded protection, recharge, monitoring and system control. The BQ29312PWRG4 is ideal for portable, low-power applications, where a wide load range, small footprint and low power dissipation are essential.
Application Field
The BQ29312PWRG4 offers numerous features which make it well suited for a broad range of portable and low-power applications. Typical applications include digital cameras, portable radio devices, GPS locators and personal digital assistants (PDAs). The BQ29312PWRG4 is also used in data acquisition and automation systems, as well as medical equipment and consumer electronics. The device offers high efficiency and low power dissipation, resulting in extended battery life in portable applications. The BQ29312PWRG4 features a wide input voltage range of 2.7V to 18V, making it ideal for use with a variety of battery chemistries. The device offers a programmable buck frequency from 200 kHz to 20 MHz, allowing for optimized efficiency and small form factors. It also features integrated battery safety and protection, supporting overvoltage, overcurrent, overtemperature and overcharge protection.
Working Principle
The BQ29312PWRG4 contains a DC-DC synchronous buck regulator, which converts the input voltage to a lower level suitable for the battery. It works by comparing the voltage of an external reference to a feedback voltage, determining the correct output voltage. The device features a programmable step size, allowing five selectable voltage steps, and two customizable lines of intermediate steps between each of the five preset voltages. This enables the output voltage to be changed without affecting the current draw of the system.The BQ29312PWRG4 also features a low quiescent current, allowing it to maintain a low power dissipation even when the charger is off. For further power savings, the device can be set up to enter a low power sleep mode when the voltage suspension is below a certain level.The device also includes a enable control interface, which can be used for remote shutdown and start up, enabling the user to reduce system power when not in use.
Conclusion
The BQ29312PWRG4 from Texas Instruments is a 1-cell, single-channel power management integrated circuit designed for efficient, low-power battery management. The device combines a high-efficiency, low-power synchronous buck DC-DC regulator with a wide input voltage range, direct load control and two-level output voltage control. It is ideal for portable and low-power applications, where a high efficiency rating, small footprint and low power dissipation are essential. With its wide range of features, the BQ29312PWRG4 is a great choice for managing battery power in portable and low-power applications.