Microchip Technology MCP73864T-I/SL

Overview

MCP73864T-I/SL from Microchip Technology is a dual-cell linear lithium-ion/polymer battery charge management controller with integrated P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, reverse-blocking protection, and programmable 8.2V/8.4V voltage regulation. It delivers up to 1.2A fast-charge current, supports preconditioning of deeply depleted cells, and includes thermal regulation and automatic end-of-charge control for use in portable dual-series Li-ion battery packs.

For engineers reviewing the MCP73864T-I/SL datasheet, MCP73864T-I/SL pinout, MCP73864T-I/SL application, or MCP73864T-I/SL equivalent, this device is selected for space-constrained, cost-sensitive applications requiring precise dual-cell CV/CC charging, continuous temperature monitoring via external thermistor, and fault/status LED drive capability without external transistors.

Technical Context

The MCP73864T-I/SL implements a fully autonomous linear charging algorithm with three distinct phases: preconditioning (trickle-charge at ~10% of IREG), constant-current fast charge, and constant-voltage regulation. Its internal current sense and voltage reference enable ±0.5% VREG accuracy across –40°C to +85°C ambient.

Charge termination is determined by either current foldback below ~8% of IREG or elapsed safety timers (precondition: 45–75 min; fast-charge: 1.1–1.9 hr; total cycle: 2.2–3.8 hr), all scaled by a single external capacitor on TIMER. Thermal regulation dynamically reduces charge current above ~100°C die temperature to prevent overheating while slowing timer progression.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit), 1.27 mm pitch, body width 7.5 mm, RoHS-compliant lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BQ24075RGTR and MCP73862T-I/SL, the MCP73864T-I/SL uniquely provides 8.2V/8.4V dual-cell regulation with STAT1-OFF end-of-charge signaling and integrated thermistor interface - making it the only drop-in solution for autonomous, temperature-aware 2S charging without firmware dependency.

Availability

MCP73864T-I/SL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, industrial handheld scanners, and dual-cell cradle chargers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant through-hole assembly.

Supply support for MCP73864T-I/SL 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 battery management ICs, headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with global design and manufacturing operations.

The MCP7386X family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained portable electronics requiring fully integrated, autonomous linear charging of single- or dual-cell Li-ion/Li-polymer batteries without host processor supervision.

FAQ

What is the function of the VSET pin on the MCP73864T-I/SL?

The VSET pin on the MCP73864T-I/SL selects the regulated output voltage: tying VSET to VSS configures 8.2V regulation, while tying it to VDD configures 8.4V regulation. This matches the nominal voltage range of dual-series lithium-ion or lithium-polymer battery packs and is implemented via an internal precision resistor ladder. The MCP73864T-I/SL does not support intermediate voltages or dynamic adjustment after power-up.

How does the MCP73864T-I/SL handle deeply depleted batteries?

The MCP73864T-I/SL initiates preconditioning when VBAT falls below the VPTH threshold (5.4–5.9V depending on VSET). During this phase, it delivers a reduced current (IPREG ≈ 10% of IREG) to safely recover cells without thermal stress. Preconditioning continues until VBAT exceeds VPTH or the tPRECON timer (45–75 min) expires - at which point the MCP73864T-I/SL terminates charging and asserts STAT2.

Can the MCP73864T-I/SL be used with a single-cell Li-ion battery?

No - the MCP73864T-I/SL is specifically designed for dual-series Li-ion/Li-polymer battery packs and operates only within the 8.7V–12V input range. Its voltage regulation options (8.2V/8.4V) and preconditioning threshold (5.4–5.9V) are incompatible with single-cell chemistries. For single-cell applications, Microchip's MCP73861T-I/SL or MCP73863T-I/SL are appropriate alternatives.

What is the key difference between MCP73864T-I/SL and MCP73862T-I/SL?

The MCP73864T-I/SL and MCP73862T-I/SL share identical electrical specifications, pinout, and dual-cell functionality. Their sole functional difference lies in STAT1 behavior at end-of-charge: MCP73864T-I/SL drives STAT1 LOW and holds it OFF, whereas MCP73862T-I/SL flashes STAT1. This distinction supports different LED indication schemes or host MCU interrupt handling strategies in the final product design.

Does the MCP73864T-I/SL require external MOSFETs for battery charging?

No - the MCP73864T-I/SL integrates a P-channel MOSFET pass transistor capable of delivering up to 1.2A continuous current. This eliminates the need for external switching elements, simplifies PCB layout, and ensures matched thermal characteristics between control logic and power stage. The internal MOSFET also provides inherent reverse-current blocking when VDD is disconnected.