nPM1304 PMIC offers the ideal solution for space-constrained applications that require small batteries. Nordic’s unique algorithm-based fuel gauge method uses voltage, current, and temperature monitoring, together with a mathematical battery model, to estimate battery state of charge. This method yields an accuracy comparable to that of dedicated fuel gauge devices such as coulomb counters, but without the additional power consumption and inherent error accumulation. Nordic is the first company to deliver the fuel gauge precision expected by today’s product users at a power consumption conducive to small battery energy budgets.

The nPM1304 charges single-cell Li-ion, Li-poly, and LiFePO4 batteries with a linear charging module that supports from 4 to 100 mA charge current and programmable from 3.5 to 4.65 V termination voltage. The battery charger features automatic thermal regulation with programmable maximum chip temperature during charging.

In addition to battery charging and fuel gauging, the nPM1304 includes two ultra-efficient buck converters, two load switches/Low Drop Out voltage converters (LDOs), 5 GPIOs, and 3 LED drivers. It also features an I2C-compatible Two Wire Interface (TWI) for easy access to configure a range of advanced system management functions.

Key features of the nPM1304 PMIC
• Up to four regulated power rails. Two ultra-efficient buck converters and two LDOs that also can serve as load switches, allowing up to four independently controlled power rails
• Ultra-low power precision fuel gauge. Offering coulomb counter precision with 8µA or less active power consumption and zero standby consumption
• 370nA ship mode. Enables long storage times with minimal energy loss and supports wake-up from charging, button press, or via disconnecting two connected electrodes (break-to-wake)
• External watchdog. Halts charging and resets a non-responsive host. Alternatively, power cycles the entire system

Advanced system management features
The nPM1304 includes the following advanced system management features to enable developers to design more reliable products with enhanced end-user experience.
• Hard reset function. Allows users to restart their product from a long button press
• Failed boot recovery. Restarts the system if the host processor fails to boot – especially helpful for sealed applications without user battery access
• Power failure warning. Warns the host that power has been lost through a high-priority interrupt

With these features and functions packed into a compact 3.1 x 2.4 mm WLCSP package, the nPM1304 delivers an unmatched power management solution to the market.