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Microchip Technology MCP73838-FCI/MF
- Part No.:
- MCP73838-FCI/MF
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Battery Chargers
- Package:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP73838-FCI/MF.pdf
- Description:
- IC BATT CHG LI-ION 1CELL 10DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:514
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Product details
Overview
MCP73838-FCI/MF from Microchip Technology is a fully integrated linear Li-Ion/Li-Polymer battery charge management controller with autonomous AC adapter or USB port source selection, ±0.5% voltage regulation accuracy, 4.20V/4.35V/4.40V/4.50V selectable charge voltage, thermal regulation, and Timer Enable (TE) pin for safety timer control - used in ultra-mobile devices requiring dual-source charging and precise battery protection.
For engineers reviewing the MCP73838-FCI/MF datasheet, MCP73838-FCI/MF pinout, MCP73838-FCI/MF application, or MCP73838-FCI/MF equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated 10-lead DFN package mapping, confirmed pin functions, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for Li-ion charging systems.
Technical Context
The MCP73838-FCI/MF implements a CC/CV charge algorithm with factory-set preconditioning and termination thresholds, programmable AC charge current (15–1000 mA via PROG1), and selectable USB charge current (100/500 mA via PROG2 logic level). Its TE pin enables/disables the built-in safety timer (4/6/8 hr options), distinguishing it from the MCP73837 which uses PG instead.
It integrates pass transistors (350 mΩ typical RDS(on)), reverse discharge protection, battery temperature monitoring via 50 µA THERM bias, and UVLO with separate thresholds for VAC (4.10–4.30 V start) and VUSB (3.35–3.55 V start). Thermal regulation dynamically limits charge current above 150°C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Voltage Regulation | ±0.5% accuracy at -5°C to +55°C; supports 4.20V/4.35V/4.40V/4.50V options for emerging Li-ion chemistries. |
| AC Charge Current Range | 15–1000 mA set by PROG1 resistor (1–10 kΩ); enables flexible system-level current scaling without external FETs. |
| USB Charge Current Options | 100 mA (PROG2 = Low) or 500 mA (PROG2 = High); complies with USB 2.0 unit load definitions. |
| Safety Timer Control | Enabled via TE pin (active-low); supports 4/6/8 hr fixed periods - critical for preventing overcharge in unattended charging. |
| Thermal Regulation Threshold | 150°C die temperature shutdown with 10°C hysteresis; maintains reliability under high ambient or high-power conditions. |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C ambient; validated across full range with no derating required for battery voltage regulation. |
| Package | 10-lead 3 mm × 3 mm DFN with exposed thermal pad (EP); θJA = 41°C/W on 4-layer board - enables compact, thermally robust layout. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 10-Lead 3 mm × 3 mm DFN with exposed thermal pad (EP), internally connected to VSS. Requires EP soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VAC | AC adapter supply input | Accepts 4.3–6 V; dominates over VUSB when both present; requires ≥4.7 µF bypass to VSS. |
| VUSB | USB port supply input | Accepts 3.4–6 V; provides up to 500 mA charge current; requires ≥1 µF bypass to VSS. |
| STAT1 | Open-drain charge status output | Active-low during precondition, fast charge, and constant voltage; high-Z at completion - drives LED or MCU interrupt. |
| STAT2 | Open-drain charge status output | Active-low only at charge completion; high-Z otherwise - enables dual-status visual indication. |
| VSS | Battery and supply ground reference | Common return for battery, inputs, and EP; must be low-impedance connection to minimize sensing error. |
| PROG1 | AC charge current and enable input | Resistor-to-VSS sets AC current (15–1000 mA); >70 kΩ disables device; floating = standby mode. |
| PROG2 | USB charge current select input | Digital input: Low = 100 mA, High = 500 mA; also sets USB precondition/termination ratios. |
| TE | Timer Enable (MCP73838-specific) | Active-low input to enable safety timer; pulled high disables timer - allows software-controlled timeout flexibility. |
| THERM | Thermistor monitoring input | 50 µA bias current for NTC thermistors; monitors battery temperature to suspend charge outside safe range. |
| VBAT | Battery positive connection | Direct connection to Li-ion cell anode; includes integrated reverse discharge protection; requires ≥1 µF bypass. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Autonomous power source selection | Hardware-based priority logic selects AC adapter over USB without MCU intervention - reduces firmware complexity and BOM count. |
| Integrated pass transistor and current sense | Eliminates need for external MOSFET, current-sense resistor, and op-amp - cuts solution size by >40% vs discrete designs. |
| Selectable charge voltage options | Four factory-trimmed VREG options (4.20–4.50 V) accommodate evolving Li-ion cathode materials without redesign. |
| Programmable safety timer with TE control | TE pin allows runtime enable/disable of 4/6/8 hr timer - essential for host-controlled charge termination in smart devices. |
| Preconditioning with disable option | Trickle-charge mode for deeply depleted cells (7.5–100% of IREG) prevents lithium plating; can be disabled via part number selection. |
| Reverse discharge protection | Blocks battery-to-input leakage <2 µA in shutdown - preserves battery life during long storage or transport. |
Applications
| Smartphone Charging Circuit | USB-C Power Bank Charger |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Dual-input (USB + wall adapter) charging in space-constrained smartphone mainboard with thermal monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary linear charger IC managing CC/CV profile, source arbitration, and TE-controlled safety timer. Use Value: Enables single-chip solution for 4.35V high-density Li-ion cells with automatic thermal foldback and 500 mA USB compliance. |
Use Scenario: Portable power bank with USB-A input and Li-ion pack, requiring reliable charge termination and low quiescent current. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone charge manager handling preconditioning, CV regulation, and STAT1/STAT2 status signaling. Use Value: Delivers ±0.5% voltage accuracy and <5 µA shutdown current - extends shelf life and ensures consistent full-charge capacity. |
| Bluetooth Headset Battery Management | Handheld Medical Monitor |
|
Use Scenario: Small-form-factor Bluetooth headset with micro-USB input and single-cell Li-Po battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact DFN-packaged charger providing 100 mA USB-Low mode and THERM-based temperature cutoff. Use Value: 3×3 mm footprint and integrated reverse discharge protection prevent battery drain during device sleep mode. |
Use Scenario: FDA-class II handheld medical monitor requiring fail-safe charging, battery temperature supervision, and traceable safety timer. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical charge controller using TE pin to enforce 4-hour maximum charge duration per session. Use Value: Factory-trimmed ±0.5% regulation and 150°C thermal shutdown meet IEC 62368-1 thermal hazard requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Li-ion linear charge management applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCP73837-FCI/MF | Lacks TE pin; includes PG (Power-Good) open-drain output instead; identical pinout and regulation options. | Used where input power presence indication (PG) is prioritized over programmable timer enable. | Select when system requires power-good monitoring but does not need host-controlled timer activation. |
| BQ24075RGTR | TI part with 4.2V fixed regulation, no selectable voltage options; includes VBUS detection and internal LDO; different pinout and PROG scheme. | Targeted at cost-sensitive USB-powered devices without AC adapter support or thermal monitoring. | Choose only if 4.2V-only regulation suffices and THERM monitoring is unnecessary; verify PCB layout compatibility. |
Compared with MCP73837-FCI/MF, the MCP73838-FCI/MF trades PG functionality for TE control - enabling dynamic safety timer management. Against BQ24075RGTR, it offers broader voltage options, integrated thermal sensing, and true dual-source autonomy - at the cost of higher pin count and design complexity.
Availability
MCP73838-FCI/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone charging circuits, portable medical devices, USB-C power banks, and Bluetooth audio accessories requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MCP73838-FCI/MF 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 Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and battery management ICs, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.
The MCP7383x family was designed specifically for space-constrained, dual-input Li-ion charging applications in consumer and portable medical electronics - emphasizing integration, accuracy, and autonomous operation without MCU dependency.
FAQ
What is the function of the TE pin on the MCP73838-FCI/MF?
The TE (Timer Enable) pin on the MCP73838-FCI/MF is an active-low input that enables or disables the internal safety timer. When pulled low, the timer runs (with factory-set 4/6/8 hr options); when high, the timer is suspended. This allows host firmware to control timeout behavior dynamically - a key distinction from the MCP73837-FCI/MF, which lacks TE and uses PG instead.
How does the MCP73838-FCI/MF select between AC adapter and USB power sources?
The MCP73838-FCI/MF performs autonomous power source selection using hardware priority logic: the VAC input dominates over VUSB when both are present. It monitors UVLO thresholds separately (4.10–4.30 V for VAC, 3.35–3.55 V for VUSB) and transitions seamlessly without MCU involvement - ensuring reliable charging even in noisy or marginal input conditions.
What battery voltage options does the MCP73838-FCI/MF support, and how are they selected?
The MCP73838-FCI/MF supports four factory-trimmed regulated charge voltages: 4.20V, 4.35V, 4.40V, and 4.50V. These options are fixed per device variant and selected at purchase - not configured externally. The ±0.5% regulation tolerance applies across -5°C to +55°C, making it suitable for next-generation high-voltage Li-ion and Li-polymer cells.
Can the MCP73838-FCI/MF charge a deeply depleted battery?
Yes - the MCP73838-FCI/MF includes preconditioning (trickle charge) mode for batteries below the factory-set VPTH threshold (64–74% of VREG). It delivers 7.5–100% of the programmed fast-charge current depending on variant, preventing lithium plating. Preconditioning can be disabled only via part number selection - not by pin configuration.
What is the thermal performance of the MCP73838-FCI/MF in its DFN package?
The MCP73838-FCI/MF in the 3 mm × 3 mm DFN package has a θJA of 41°C/W on a 4-layer JEDEC-standard board with natural convection. Its thermal shutdown activates at 150°C junction temperature with 10°C hysteresis, and thermal regulation begins reducing charge current before shutdown - ensuring robust operation in sealed enclosures or high-ambient environments.
MCP73838-FCI/MF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-VFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Battery Chemistry:
- Lithium Ion/Polymer
- Number of Cells:
- 1
- Current - Charging:
- Constant - Programmable
- Programmable Features:
- -
- Fault Protection:
- Over Voltage
- Charge Current - Max:
- 1.1A
- Battery Pack Voltage:
- 4.2V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 6V
- Interface:
- USB
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-DFN (3x3)
MCP73838-FCI/MF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP73838-FCI/MF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP73838-FCI/MF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MCP73838-FCI/MF reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP73838-FCI/MF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP73838-FCI/MF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MCP73838-FCI/MF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MCP73838-FCI/MF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MCP73838-FCI/MF?
MCP73838-FCI/MF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MCP73838-FCI/MF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MCP73838-FCI/MF?
For technical support, including MCP73838-FCI/MF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP73838-FCI/MF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP73838-FCI/MF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP73838-FCI/MF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MCP73838-FCI/MF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP73838-FCI/MF?
All MCP73838-FCI/MF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP73838-FCI/MF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MCP73838-FCI/MF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP73838-FCI/MF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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