The MAX17320 is a 38μA IQ stand-alone pack-side fuel gauge IC with protector, battery internal self-discharge detection, and optional SHA-256 authentication for 2 to 4 series lithium-ion/polymer batteries. The IC monitors the voltage, current, temperature and state of the battery to provide protection against over/undervoltage, overcurrent, short-circuit, over/undertemperature, overcharge, and internal self-discharge conditions using external high-side N-FETs, and provides charging prescription to ensure that the battery operates under safe conditions, thereby prolonging the life of the battery. The IC balances the cells using internal FETs. During prequal charging, the IC uses the CHGFET to linearly control charging.