Multi-chemistry 4-cell charger with 4A headroom
The Analog Devices MAX1873TEEE+ is a multi-chemistry battery charger IC designed for charging 4-series cells up to a 16.8V pack voltage. It delivers a programmable constant charge current rated up to 4A, making it suitable for medium-capacity Li-ion, Li-Po, or other chemistry packs in portable equipment, industrial handhelds, and backup power systems. The device operates from a supply rail up to 28V, giving margin for unregulated adapters or 24V industrial buses. Its industrial temperature range of -40°C to 85°C covers outdoor and enclosure-based charging scenarios where ambient temperature swings are a concern.
4A programmable charge current — sizing the charge rail
The 4A maximum charge current is the key rating for BOM fit: it determines how fast a given battery pack can be charged and sets the thermal budget for the PCB. At 4A continuous, the power dissipation in the charger and pass element needs a layout with adequate copper area and airflow. The constant-current programming is done with an external resistor, so the charge current can be tailored to the pack capacity without changing the IC.
16.8V pack voltage and multi-chemistry flexibility
The 16.8V output regulation target matches the full-charge voltage of a 4-series Li-ion or Li-Po stack (4.2V per cell). The multi-chemistry support means the same IC can be configured for other cell chemistries by adjusting the voltage set point and charge algorithm, reducing qualification effort across product variants. The 28V supply maximum allows the charger to tolerate input transients common in automotive or industrial power rails.
Package and mounting for production
The MAX1873TEEE+ is offered in a 16-lead QSOP package (supplier device package 16-QSOP). Mounting is surface-mount, compatible with standard reflow profiles.