Maxim Launches Industry’s Smallest USB Battery Charger Detectors

The new MAX14578E/MAX14578AE from Maxim Integrated Products Inc. are claimed to be the industry's smallest USB battery charger detectors that are compliant with the USB Battery Charging Specification. The new devices detect USB standard downstream ports (SDPs), USB charging downstream ports (CDPs), or dedicated charger ports (DCPs), in addition to proprietary charger adapters from Apple and Sony. When a charging port is detected, the MAX14578E/MAX14578AE will control an external lithium-ion (Li+) battery charger controller to optimize charge time and charging efficiency.

According to Maxim, by supporting a broad range of USB chargers, the MAX14578E/MAX14578AE offer consumers a “virtually universal” charging experience. Manufacturers also can now ship equipment without including power adapters, so they simplify their manufacturing supply chain while improving their green credentials.

“The MAX14578E/MAX14578AE allow the consumer to charge from a wide variety of sources,” said Andrew Baker, Director, Business Management at Maxim Integrated Products. “With this level of flexibility, consumers may never have to own a device with a dedicated charger again.”

An on-chip LDO provides a 5.3V output which can be used to power a USB transceiver. In addition, ESD protection on the USB data pins is extended up to +/-15kV (Human Body Model) and +/-8kV IEC 61000-4-2 Contact Discharge.

The MAX14578E/MAX14578AE are available in a 12-bump, 0.4mm pitch, 1.3mm x 1.68mm WLP package for space-critical applications, and in a 16-pin TQFN package for ease of manufacturing. They operate over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range.