Devices Supported: MCP1630

Summary Description:

The MCP1630 High Speed PWM is interfaced to the PIC16LF818 to develop a complete NiMH battery charger with fuel gauge capability. The MCP1630 is used to regulate the battery charge current and protect the SEPIC power train against an open circuit (removed battery) or a shorted battery. The high speed (12 ns current sense to output) capability of the MCP1630 is used to switch the SEPIC converter at 1 MHz, minimizing external inductor and capacitor cost, while the PIC16LF818 performs the complex NiMH battery charger timing functions. Both the MCP1630 and PICLF818 protect the battery and circuit in the event of a fault.

Features:

• MCP1630 used in a high frequency (1 MHz) SEPIC converter
• Complete evaluation of complex NiMH charging algorithm
• Pre-programmed charge currents:
  • Fast Charge = 500 mA
  • Trickle Charge = 50 mA
  • Top-Off Charge = 25 mA
• Overvoltage, Overcurrent, Over-charge and Over-discharge protection
• Battery temperature sensor on board
• Simple fuel gauge capability
• Low standby current (29 µA)
• ICD connector footprint allows access to PIC16LF818 program code with Microchip’s ICD2 in-Circuit Debugger