General Description
The MAX846A is a cost-saving multichemistry battery charger system that comes in a space-saving 16-pin QSOP. This integrated system allows different battery chemistries (Li-Ion, NiMH or NiCd cells) to be charged using one circuit.
In its simplest application, the MAX846A is a stand alone, current-limited float voltage source that charges Li-Ion cells. It can also be paired up with a low-cost microcontroller (µC) to build a universal charger capable of charging Li-Ion, NiMH, and NiCd cells.

Features
♦ Multichemistry Charger System (Li-Ion, NiMH, NiCd)
♦ Independent Voltage and Current Loops
♦ ±0.5% Internal Reference for Li-Ion Cells
♦ Lowers Cost:
   —Stands Alone or Uses Low-Cost µC
   —Built-In 1% Linear Regulator Powers µC
   —Linear Regulator Provides Reference to µC ADCs
   —Built-In µC Reset
   —Controls Low-Cost External PNP Transistor or
      P-Channel MOSFET
♦ Space-Saving 16-Pin QSOP
♦ Charging-Current-Monitor Output
♦ <1µA Battery Drain when Off

Applications
   Li-Ion Battery Packs
   Desktop Cradle Chargers
   Li-Ion/NiMH/NiCd Multichemistry Battery Chargers
   Cellular Phones
   Notebook Computers
   Hand-Held Instruments