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Solar lithium ion charger with fuel gauge

Part Number: BQ25186

Tool/software:

Hello,

I want to design an ultra low power application with 6V (100-500mA) PV cells and a Li-Ion battery (3.5Ah).

The BQ25186 states it can handle solar input and looks promising for my application.

Is this chip recommended for my use case and can you recommend a fitting fuel gauge which is also ultra low power consumption?

Best regards

Tobi

  • Hello Tobi,

    Yes, the BQ25186 is a great choice for applications with a solar input. It has a battery tracking VINDPM feature that is designed for use with solar panels and other high impedance sources. Instead of regulating the PV cell to its MPPT, it will regulate it to either VBAT + 330mV or 3.6V, whichever is greater. This maximizes output current while reducing thermal dissipation from the charger.

    Please let me know if you have any other requirements. I'll loop in the battery fuel gauge experts to help with a fuel gauge recommendation.

    Best regards,

    Alec Lehman

  • Hello Alec,

    thank you for your fast response. I will test the part.

    Additional information from the fuel gauge expert would be much appreciated.

    Best regards.

    Tobi