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BQ79616-Q1: Initial Hardware Testing and Software Implementation for BQ79616-Based BMS

Part Number: BQ79616-Q1
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: BQ79616

Hello TI Community,

I hope this message finds you well. I am currently in the early stages of testing a Battery Management System (BMS) that utilizes the TI BQ79616 IC. I have successfully designed and assembled the hardware, and now I am looking for guidance on the initial hardware testing process before moving on to software implementation.

Here are the specific queries I have:

  1. Hardware Testing: a. What are the recommended procedures for the initial hardware testing of a BMS with the BQ79616 IC? b. Are there specific voltages, signals, or parameters I should monitor during the initial power-up to ensure the hardware's integrity?

  2. Software Implementation: a. Where can I find the necessary software tools or firmware for the BQ79616 IC? b. What is the process for uploading the test software onto the BMS?

  3. Post-Software Implementation: a. After uploading the test software, what are the key functionalities or features I should focus on to verify the BMS's performance? b. Are there any debugging steps or common issues that typically arise during this phase?

I appreciate any insights or guidance you can provide, especially from those who have experience with the BQ79616 IC or similar BMS designs. Your assistance will be invaluable as I work towards a successful implementation and testing phase.

Also, Is Test Software Alone Sufficient?

Thank you for your time and expertise.

Batuhan

  • Hi,

    Here are some thoughts. 

    Hardware testing:
       a. Recommended procedures would be to turn on the device and check the active voltages of the power rails. However, you cannot wake up the device without using software.
       b. The AVDD, CVDD, and DVDD rails should be observed during wake up. 

    2. Sofware implementation:
       a. You can find a GUI created for our evaluation board on the product page on TI.com. 
       b. The BQ79616 device does not have any non-volatile (flash) memory so commands/scripts cannot be stored on it. A host (MCU/laptop) would be used to send commands/read back values from the device. Can you share the system schematic to get you a more detailed answer?

    3. Post-software implementation:
        a. Once the software is working, try to read back ADC voltages correctly. Try to run cell-balancing. Try to force a fault and read it back correctly.

        b. Just as general guidelines, if there is an issue try to isolate the cause. The first things I would check would be signal integrity, power supply/rail integrity, and software. 

    Best,

    Nancy Hidalgo