Maxim battery charger IC provides 4A current

The MAX1908 multi-chemistry battery charger IC from Maxim Integrated Products is capable of charging two to four Li-ion cells by providing 4A of charging current and exhibits 0.5 percent accurate battery voltage regulation to extend battery capacity and minimize charging time.

Available in a 28-pin, 5-by-5mm QFN package, the MAX1908's outputs monitor battery charging current, the presence of an ac adapter, and the currents drawn from it. When charging, the device automatically transitions from regulating current to regulating voltage. It also reduces the cost of the ac adapter by allowing the programming of the maximum current draw from the ac adapter.

The device also exhibits 5 percent accurate current regulation and uses 15-milliohm resistors for ac adapter current limiting. It is screened for operation over the extended-industrial temperature range and is priced starting at $5.05 (1,000-up).