LTC3550EDHC-1 Integrated Battery Charger and PowerPath Manager

The LTC3550EDHC-1 from Linear Technology is a highly integrated power management solution designed to simplify the charging and power regulation for portable electronic devices. This compact, multifunctional component integrates a standalone linear battery charger with a synchronous buck regulator, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained applications such as handheld devices, digital cameras, and medical equipment.

Efficient Battery Charging

The LTC3550EDHC-1 features a programmable battery charger that can efficiently charge single-cell lithium-ion/polymer batteries. It provides a selectable charge current up to 950mA, which can be adjusted via an external resistor, allowing for flexibility in designing for different battery capacities and charge rates. The charger also includes an automatic recharge feature, ensuring the battery remains fully charged over time.

PowerPath Control

One of the standout features of the LTC3550EDHC-1 is its PowerPath control. This technology allows the device to seamlessly manage power flow between the input source, battery, and load. When external power is available, the system can operate directly from the input while simultaneously charging the battery. This minimizes battery charging cycles and extends battery life, which is crucial for modern portable devices.

High-Efficiency Synchronous Buck Regulator

Alongside the charger, the LTC3550EDHC-1 includes a high-efficiency synchronous buck regulator with an adjustable output voltage range from 0.8V to VIN. This regulator can deliver up to 400mA of continuous output current, ensuring a stable power supply for the device's critical components. Its high switching frequency allows the use of small, low-cost capacitors and inductors, further reducing the overall solution size.

Protection Features

The LTC3550EDHC-1 is designed with multiple protection features to safeguard the device and battery. These include thermal regulation to prevent overheating during fast charging, overvoltage protection, and a thermistor input for temperature-qualified charging. Additionally, the device comes in a low-profile (0.75mm) 16-lead DFN package, offering a compact footprint suitable for slim portable electronics.

With its integrated approach to charging and power management, the LTC3550EDHC-1 is a versatile component that streamlines design and enhances the reliability and user experience of battery-operated devices.