Microchip Technology MCP73827-4.1VUATR

Overview

MCP73827-4.1VUATR from Microchip Technology is a linear single-cell lithium-ion battery charge management controller in an 8-pin MSOP package, featuring ±1% voltage regulation at 4.1 V, programmable fast-charge current via external sense resistor, automatic preconditioning for deeply depleted cells, and open-drain MODE output for status indication. It operates from 4.5 V to 5.5 V input and supports industrial temperature range (–20°C to +85°C), used in compact portable devices requiring precise, low-component-count charging.

For engineers reviewing the MCP73827-4.1VUATR datasheet, MCP73827-4.1VUATR pinout, MCP73827-4.1VUATR application, or MCP73827-4.1VUATR equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 4.1 V regulation voltage (optimized for coke-anode Li-ion cells), VDRV-driven external P-channel MOSFET topology, IMON-based current monitoring, and thermal-aware linear architecture requiring careful PCB layout and pass transistor selection.

Technical Context

The MCP73827-4.1VUATR implements a three-phase charge algorithm-preconditioning (foldback current at ~43% of peak), controlled-current fast charge, and constant-voltage regulation-with internal voltage reference (1.2 V) and precision resistor divider setting VREG = 4.1 V (±1%). Its analog control loop uses VSNS–VDRV differential sensing and integrates charge current monitor (IMON, 26 V/V gain) and open-drain MODE output with defined logic states per charge phase.

It features automatic power-down when VIN < VBAT, shutdown input (SHDN) with 40% VIN high-threshold, and gate drive output (VDRV) capable of sinking 1 mA in CV mode. Thermal design centers on external P-MOSFET dissipation, with θJA = 206°C/W for the MSOP package, requiring attention to copper area and sense resistor sizing to manage peak power during preconditioning and fast charge.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

8-pin MSOP (Micro Small Outline Package), 0.65 mm pitch, 3.0 mm × 4.9 mm body, molded thickness 0.75–0.95 mm, lead width 0.22–0.40 mm. RoHS-compliant, matte tin finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar linear single-cell Li-ion charge management applications.

Compared with MCP73831T-410I/OT, the MCP73827-4.1VUATR offers external MOSFET control and real-time current monitoring (IMON), enabling higher current and thermal optimization; compared with BQ24075RGTR, it provides simpler autonomous operation without I2C dependency but lacks programmability and thermal profiling.

Availability

MCP73827-4.1VUATR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone charging circuits, digital camera battery packs, handheld medical instruments, and industrial handheld scanners requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for MCP73827-4.1VUATR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Microchip Technology is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and interface ICs, with emphasis on reliability, longevity, and broad ecosystem support for embedded applications.

The MCP738xx family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained portable electronics needing autonomous, accurate linear Li-ion charging-prioritizing simplicity, thermal safety, and compatibility with common 5 V power sources.

FAQ

What is the exact voltage regulation accuracy of the MCP73827-4.1VUATR?

The MCP73827-4.1VUATR delivers voltage regulation accuracy of ±1% over the full operating temperature range (–20°C to +85°C) and input supply range (4.5 V to 5.5 V). This is achieved via an internal 1.2 V reference and precision resistor divider network calibrated for 4.1 V output, as confirmed in DS21704B-page 3 DC Characteristics table under "Regulated Output Voltage" for MCP73827-4.1 only.

Can the MCP73827-4.1VUATR be used with a 4.2 V lithium-ion cell?

No-the MCP73827-4.1VUATR is factory-trimmed for 4.1 V regulation and is intended for lithium-ion cells with coke anodes, which require lower termination voltage to maximize cycle life. Using it with a standard 4.2 V graphite-anode cell results in undercharging (~2–3% capacity loss) and violates cell manufacturer specifications; the MCP73827-4.2VUATR variant must be used instead.

How does the preconditioning function work in the MCP73827-4.1VUATR?

The MCP73827-4.1VUATR initiates preconditioning when battery voltage (VBAT) falls below ~2.4 V. It applies a foldback current scaled to ~43% of the programmed fast-charge current-set by the external sense resistor-to safely recover deeply depleted cells. This phase minimizes heat in the external P-MOSFET and prevents lithium plating, transitioning automatically to fast charge once VBAT exceeds the threshold.

What external components are mandatory for basic operation of the MCP73827-4.1VUATR?

Four components are mandatory: (1) an external P-channel MOSFET (e.g., NDS8434) driven by VDRV; (2) a sense resistor (RSENSE) between VIN and MOSFET source to set charge current; (3) ≥10 µF capacitor from VBAT to GND for loop stability; and (4) ≥10 µF capacitor from VIN to GND. The SHDN pin may be tied to VIN for automatic enable, making it optional but recommended for robust operation.

Does the MCP73827-4.1VUATR support charge termination via timer or current threshold?

Yes-the MCP73827-4.1VUATR supports both methods. Charge termination can be triggered by a host microcontroller monitoring the IMON output for current decay to ~10% of peak, or by using the MODE pin's transition to high-Z (indicating entry into constant-voltage mode) to start an external timer. Final termination is executed by pulling SHDN low, as detailed in DS21704B-page 10 Section 4.4.