Single-Chip Protection IC

Paul Boughton

Offering a substantial set of protection features, the AP9234L IC introduced by Diodes Incorporated is specifically designed to provide a high-accuracy, single-chip solution for 1-cell lithium-ion (Li+) or lithium-polymer rechargeable battery packs. Key markets for this device are manufacturers of battery protection circuit modules for smart phones, cameras and similar consumer electronics equipment.

The AP9234L integrates a high-accuracy battery protection circuit with a dual N-channel common‑drain MOSFET that features an ultra-low RSS(ON) specification, typically just 13mΩ at VDD = 4.0V and ID = 1.0A. Safe battery charging and discharging is achieved by turning the MOSFET off when overcharge voltage/current, over-discharge voltage/current, or load short-circuit conditions are detected. A built-in fixed delay time also protects external components.

Stable voltage detection over the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range is ensured by Diodes Incorporated’s innovative design and process technology, which also delivers power savings through a low quiescent current, typically 3.0μA in normal mode and 0.1μA in power-down mode. Additionally, an over-current detection voltage compensation circuit assures current limit accuracy. As well as a power-down capability, the AP9234L features a selectable auto-wake up function and offers protection voltage customization to cater for different cell-type specifications.

Offered in a standard pinout DFN2535-6 package, the AP9234L is competitively priced at $0.41 each in quantities of 10k, providing a low BOM-cost solution.