Microchip Technology MCP73853T-I/ML

Overview

MCP73853T-I/ML from Microchip Technology is a linear lithium-ion/lithium-polymer battery charge management controller with integrated P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, precision voltage regulation (±0.5%), programmable fast-charge current (up to 400 mA), and dual status outputs (STAT1/STAT2) for LED-driven state indication. It operates from 4.5V–5.5V input, supports USB-compliant charging, and delivers 4.1V or 4.2V regulated output depending on VSET configuration - used in compact portable devices such as Bluetooth headsets and USB-powered cradle chargers.

For engineers reviewing the MCP73853T-I/ML datasheet, MCP73853T-I/ML pinout, MCP73853T-I/ML application, or MCP73853T-I/ML equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world application mappings, and validated alternative parts for Li-ion charging system design and BOM optimization.

Technical Context

The MCP73853T-I/ML implements a complete linear charge algorithm: preconditioning (trickle charge at ~10% of IREG), constant-current fast charge, and constant-voltage regulation with automatic termination at ~7% of IREG. It integrates internal current sensing, reverse-blocking protection, thermal regulation (155°C shutdown with 10°C hysteresis), and UVLO (4.25–4.65V start threshold).

Unlike the MCP73855, the MCP73853T-I/ML includes full temperature monitoring via THREF (2.55V reference) and THERM inputs, dual open-drain status outputs (STAT1/STAT2), and three VSS pins for enhanced grounding - all housed in a thermally optimized 16-lead 4×4 mm QFN package with exposed pad tied to VSS.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-lead, 4×4 mm QFN with exposed pad (EP) electrically connected to VSS - optimized for thermal dissipation and space-constrained PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP73855T-I/ML, the MCP73853T-I/ML adds essential safety layers (temperature monitoring, dual status, extra grounding) at the cost of larger footprint; versus BQ24075RGTR, it offers simpler, zero-firmware standalone operation but lacks programmability and power-path flexibility.

Availability

MCP73853T-I/ML is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB cradle chargers, Bluetooth headsets, digital cameras, and MP3 players requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MCP73853T-I/ML 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 manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and interface solutions with strong focus on embedded control and power management.

The MCP73853T-I/ML belongs to Microchip's linear battery charge management product line, designed specifically for space-constrained, cost-sensitive USB-powered portable devices requiring high-accuracy, fully autonomous Li-ion/Li-Po charging.

FAQ

What is the maximum fast charge current supported by the MCP73853T-I/ML?

The MCP73853T-I/ML supports a maximum fast charge current of 475 mA (typical 400 mA) when the PROG pin is connected directly to VSS. This value is confirmed in the DC Characteristics table (DS21915C-page 3) under "Fast Charge Current Regulation" with PROG = VSS and TA = -5°C to +55°C. The actual current is resistor-programmable and scales linearly with the PROG-to-VSS resistance value.

Does the MCP73853T-I/ML support temperature monitoring, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the MCP73853T-I/ML supports continuous cell temperature monitoring using the THREF (2.55V reference) and THERM pins. An external NTC or PTC thermistor forms a voltage divider biased by THREF; the THERM input is compared against ratiometric thresholds (THREF/2 and THREF/4). If the voltage falls outside this window, charging suspends automatically - a feature absent in the MCP73855 variant.

How does the MCP73853T-I/ML handle deeply depleted batteries?

The MCP73853T-I/ML performs automatic preconditioning for batteries below 2.70–2.95V (VPTH), delivering a controlled trickle charge at ~10% of the fast-charge current. This prevents thermal runaway and enables safe recovery before entering constant-current mode. The preconditioning timer (45–75 minutes) terminates with fault indication if VPTH is not reached - a key safety function documented in Section 4.1 of DS21915C.

What are the voltage regulation options for the MCP73853T-I/ML, and how are they selected?

The MCP73853T-I/ML offers two factory-trimmed voltage regulation options: 4.1V (for coke anode cells) and 4.2V (for graphite anode cells). Selection is made externally via the VSET pin: tie VSET to VSS for 4.1V regulation, or to VDD for 4.2V. Both options maintain ±0.5% accuracy across -40°C to +85°C, as verified in the Electrical Characteristics table on DS21915C-page 3.

Can the MCP73853T-I/ML operate without a microcontroller?

Yes, the MCP73853T-I/ML is designed for fully autonomous operation. It executes the complete CC/CV charge algorithm - including qualification, preconditioning, fast charge, CV regulation, termination, and automatic recharge - using only passive components (PROG resistor, TIMER capacitor, thermistor network). STAT1 and STAT2 provide direct LED drive capability, eliminating the need for host MCU intervention in basic implementations.