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TIDA-00488: BQ25505, diode in series to solar panel

Part Number: TIDA-00488
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: TIDA-00100

Hi,

My question concern the Schottky diode placed in series to the solar panel as in the reference design TIDA-00488 or TIDA-00100 for example. 

Is this diode really necessary ? 

Is it worth to use it despite of its the voltage drop? Is it just for reverse voltage protection or equally to prevent the discharge of the battery during night ?

Many Thanks.

  • Hi,

    The diode is there for reverse battery protection. You are correct that the voltage drop must be accounted for when calculating things such as battery life. If that voltage drop is a concern you can consider using a PMOS transistor with low RDSon as described in the SLVA139 app note.