Multi-chemistry charge controller with programmable timer
The BQ24401PW from Texas Instruments is a multi-chemistry battery charge controller designed for applications that need to handle NiCd, NiMH, or single-cell Li-Ion packs without a separate microcontroller. The 6V supply maximum sets the charge voltage ceiling, making this part a fit for portable instruments, backup power systems, and consumer electronics where the battery voltage stays under that rail. A programmable timer provides charge termination, so the designer sets the charge duration with an external capacitor — no I²C or firmware overhead. This keeps the BOM lean and the charge cycle deterministic, which matters for production repeatability.
Temperature grade and operating envelope
Rated for -20°C to 70°C ambient, the BQ24401PW covers most indoor and outdoor telecom, industrial, and consumer equipment.
8-TSSOP footprint and mounting
Housed in an 8-TSSOP package (4.40 mm width), this part is surface-mount and suited for compact PCBs.
Lifecycle and supply posture
For production BOM lines, this means no urgent qualification of a replacement; the part can be dual-sourced across multiple distributor channels to mitigate allocation risk.