Microchip Technology MCP73838-NVI/MF

Overview

MCP73838-NVI/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 fixed charge voltage, 1000 mA max AC charge current, and Timer Enable (TE) pin for safety timer control - used in ultra-mobile devices requiring dual-source charging and thermal-safe operation.

For engineers reviewing the MCP73838-NVI/MF datasheet, MCP73838-NVI/MF pinout, MCP73838-NVI/MF application, or MCP73838-NVI/MF equivalent, this page delivers verified package mapping (10-lead 3 mm × 3 mm DFN), confirmed thermal regulation behavior, validated USB/AC current selection logic, and real-world status output timing per DS20002071C.

Technical Context

The MCP73838-NVI/MF implements a CC/CV charge algorithm with factory-set 4.20V regulation, programmable AC charge current (15–1000 mA via PROG1), and selectable USB charge current (100/500 mA via PROG2 logic level). It integrates pass transistors, current sense, reverse discharge protection, and die-temperature-based thermal regulation.

Unlike the MCP73837, this variant features Timer Enable (TE) input (active-low) to enable/disable the safety timer (4/6/8 hr options), lacks Power-Good (PG) output, and uses open-drain STAT1/STAT2 for status indication. Battery temperature monitoring is performed via THERM pin with 50 µA bias current for NTC thermistors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 10-Lead 3 mm × 3 mm DFN with exposed thermal pad (EP), internally connected to VSS. Requires PCB thermal pad connection for optimal thermal performance (θJA = 41°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP73837-NVI/MF, MCP73838-NVI/MF trades PG output for TE control - enabling safety timer configuration without external logic. Against BQ24075RGTR, it offers true autonomous dual-source selection but lower max current, reducing system-level design effort at the cost of peak charge rate.

Availability

MCP73838-NVI/MF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphones, portable media players, and ultra-mobile devices requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and automotive-grade thermal reliability.

Supply support for MCP73838-NVI/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 devices, and interface ICs, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global manufacturing and support infrastructure.

The MCP7383x family was designed specifically for space-constrained portable Li-ion/Li-polymer battery charging applications - emphasizing integration, thermal resilience, and autonomous operation without host processor dependency.

FAQ

What is the exact charge voltage regulation setting for MCP73838-NVI/MF?

The MCP73838-NVI/MF is factory-configured for 4.20 V ±0.5% constant-voltage regulation, optimized for standard single-cell Li-ion batteries. This value is fixed and non-adjustable - unlike variants offering 4.35 V or 4.40 V options. The tolerance ensures cell longevity and compliance with JEITA guidelines across −40°C to +85°C.

How does the Timer Enable (TE) pin function on MCP73838-NVI/MF?

The TE pin on MCP73838-NVI/MF is an active-low input that enables or disables the internal safety timer. When pulled low, the timer activates with factory-set duration (4/6/8 hr); when high, the timer is disabled. This differs from MCP73837-NVI/MF, which lacks TE and instead provides PG output. TE functionality is confirmed in DS20002071C Section 3.9.

Can MCP73838-NVI/MF operate with both AC and USB sources simultaneously?

Yes - MCP73838-NVI/MF autonomously selects the AC adapter (VAC) over USB (VUSB) when both are present. The AC path dominates charge current control, delivering up to 1000 mA, while USB remains available as backup. No host intervention or external arbitration circuitry is required, as specified in Section 4.2 of DS20002071C.

What is the recommended bypass capacitance for VBAT on MCP73838-NVI/MF?

DS20002071C specifies a minimum 1 µF ceramic capacitor from VBAT to VSS for stability when the battery is disconnected. For systems drawing >250 mA, Microchip recommends ≥4.7 µF. This capacitance suppresses high-frequency noise and maintains loop stability during transient load changes - critical for reliable CC/CV transition.

Does MCP73838-NVI/MF include battery temperature monitoring?

Yes - MCP73838-NVI/MF integrates a precision 50 µA current source on the THERM pin to bias standard 10 kΩ NTC thermistors. It monitors voltage at THERM relative to VSS and halts charging if temperature exceeds safe thresholds (VT1 = 1.23 V upper trip, VT2 = 0.25 V lower trip), as detailed in Section 1.0 Electrical Characteristics and Section 3.10.