ZMDI Expands Smart Charger ICs with Two New Chargers for Use with Photovoltaic Sources

ZMD AG (ZMDI) has released the ZSPM4521 high-efficiency lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery charger and the ZSPM4523 super capacitor charger for managing charging with photovoltaic sources. Both the ZSPM4521 and ZSPM4523 are configurable for termination voltages and charge currents to allow optimum charging for a wide range of Li-ion batteries or super capacitors. They can regulate up to 1.5A continuous drive current and use a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) function to extract the maximum possible power from the photovoltaic charging source.

Once the termination voltage is reached, the MPPT regulator operates in voltage mode to maintain optimal voltage. The switching frequency is 1MHz , which enables the use of small filter components, resulting in smaller board space and reduced system costs. An integrated I2Câ„¢ (trademark of NXP) interface enables the user to set application-specific termination voltages and control charging currents.

The ZSPM4521 has an additional charge timeout feature to protect the Li-ion battery from overcharge. It also offers separate settings for termination voltage and maximum charge current for different battery temperature ranges. It provides Li-ion-specific protection for over-current, over-temperature, over-voltage, under-voltage and charging timeout.

The ZSPM4523 is optimized for super capacitor charging. It provides protection for over-current, over-temperature, over-voltage and under-voltage. The ZSPM45XX family is in a league of its own when it comes to its high level of integration, up to 92% efficiency and ultra-low power consumption. When the regulator is disabled, the device typically draws 10µA quiescent current.

“Building on the success of ZMDI’s ZSPM4551 product, the ZSPM4521 and ZSPM4523 will provide our customers with a wider breadth of products to support Li-ion batteries, photovoltaic sources and super capacitor applications. ZMDI’s continual commitment to developing advanced high-efficiency solutions will enable our customers to be leaders in energy efficiency,” stated Edward Lam, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at ZMDI.