Linear Technology introduces the LTC4101, a smart battery charger controller that operates with or without a host microcontroller. The IC is 100% compliant with Rev. 1.1 SMBus specifications and meets the requirements of Smart Battery System (SBS) Level 2 charging functions. It is optimized for 3V to 5.5V charging voltages, suitable for 1-cell Li-Ion and 3- to 4-cell nickel-chemistry batteries. It is capable of fast charging up to 4A with 0.8% voltage accuracy and 4% current accuracy. Synchronous switching operation provides high efficiency charging from a wide input supply voltage range of 6V to 28V.

The LTC4101 is housed in a small 24-pin SSOP package and is ideal for use in portable computers and instruments.For flexibility, the LTC4101 integrates a 10-bit DAC for charge current programming and an 11-bit DAC for charge voltage programming. Using the charger's input current limit feature, a maximum charge rate is achieved without overloading the input supply, such as a wall adapter. The SMBus interface remains alive when the input power is removed and responds to all SMBus activity directed to it, including SafetySignal status, which in tandem with the IC automatically monitors the battery temperature, connectivity and battery type information. The LTC4101 is rated for operation from -40°C to 85°C. Pricing starts at $5.00 each in 1,000-piece quantities.