NiMH Battery Charger Detects and Avoids Charging Alkaline Cells
DALLAS, TX—October 23, 2004—Dallas Semiconductor (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the DS2711, the industry's first loose-cell NiMH charger to detect and avoid charging primary alkaline cells. Additionally, the DS2711 tests for and avoids charging Li+ cells, and defective NiMH or NiCd cells.
The DS2711 is ideal for in-system or stand-alone charging of one or two AA or AAA NiMH or NiCd loose cells. The device charges using a linear charge-control method: precharging deeply depleted cells before fast charging with a –delta voltage (-DV) termination criterion. Once the fast-charge termination criterion is met, the charger device enters a top-off mode, followed by a maintenance mode which continues until power is removed. The DS2711 also monitors voltage and temperature, has an adjustable timer for safety and secondary termination, and has two programmable LED outputs that can be used to display charge status.
The DS2711 supports either a series configuration for one- or two-slot stand-alone or one- or two-cell in-system chargers, or a parallel configuration for two-slot stand-alone chargers. Regardless of configuration, the DS2711 independently monitors and controls each cell being charged.
Typical applications for the DS2711 battery charger include desktop/stand-alone loose-cell NiMH or NiCd chargers, digital still cameras, handhelds, portable music players, and portable electronic games and toys. The device is available in a 16-pin SO package. Prices start at $1.80 (1000-up, FOB USA).
|
