Microchip Technology MCP73871-3CCI/ML

Overview

MCP73871-3CCI/ML from Microchip Technology is a fully integrated linear Li-Ion/Li-Polymer battery charge management IC with system load sharing, supporting dual input sources (USB or AC-DC adapter), ±0.5% voltage regulation at 4.20 V, resistor-programmable fast charge current up to 1 A, and thermal regulation. It powers portable medical devices, GPS navigators, and Bluetooth headsets while prioritizing system load over battery charging via Voltage Proportional Current Control (VPCC).

For engineers reviewing the MCP73871-3CCI/ML datasheet, MCP73871-3CCI/ML pinout, MCP73871-3CCI/ML application, or MCP73871-3CCI/ML equivalent, key selection considerations include its 20-lead QFN package, 4.20 V fixed charge voltage option, 1.8 A total input current limit, integrated reverse discharge protection, and LBO threshold set to 3.1 V per the 'C' suffix in the part number.

Technical Context

The MCP73871-3CCI/ML implements a constant-current/constant-voltage (CC/CV) charge algorithm with autonomous power-source arbitration between battery and input (IN/OUT path). Its VPCC circuit dynamically scales charge current based on input voltage drop, ensuring system load priority without external control logic.

It integrates dual pass transistors (IN-to-OUT and BAT-to-OUT) with 200 mΩ R_DS(on), ideal diode operation for low-loss power-path management, and factory-trimmed 4.20 V regulation (±0.5% at +25°C, ±0.75% over –5°C to +55°C). The device includes a 50 μA thermistor bias current source and dual-threshold (1.24 V / 0.25 V) temperature monitoring with hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-Lead QFN (4 mm × 4 mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP), internally connected to VSS. Requires PCB thermal pad connection for reliable thermal performance (θ_JA = 50 °C/W on 4-layer board).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BQ24075RGTR and TP4056, the MCP73871-3CCI/ML uniquely integrates VPCC-based load priority, 3.1 V LBO, and dual-input selection in a single 20-pin QFN-enabling true "charge while operating" functionality without external logic or additional ICs.

Availability

MCP73871-3CCI/ML is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPS navigation devices, portable medical monitors, and Bluetooth headsets requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MCP73871-3CCI/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 leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and interface ICs, with deep expertise in power management and battery safety systems.

The MCP73871 product line delivers integrated Li-Ion charge management with system load sharing for space-constrained portable electronics, targeting applications where runtime charging, thermal safety, and dual-input flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the exact charge voltage setting for MCP73871-3CCI/ML?

The MCP73871-3CCI/ML is factory-configured for 4.20 V constant-voltage regulation with ±0.5% tolerance at +25°C. This value is fixed and non-adjustable; the 'C' in the third position of the part number explicitly denotes the 4.20 V option per Microchip's Product Identification System.

How does the LBO function work on MCP73871-3CCI/ML?

The MCP73871-3CCI/ML provides low-battery indication via the STAT1 pin, activated when VBAT falls below 3.1 V (±150 mV hysteresis) and the system is operating from battery (VIN < VBAT). This hardware-level alert requires no host MCU intervention and drives an LED or microcontroller input directly.

What is the safety timer duration for MCP73871-3CCI/ML?

The MCP73871-3CCI/ML incorporates a 6-hour elapsed safety timer, enabled by pulling the TE pin low. The 'C' in the part number identifies this 6-hour interval (options: A=disable, B=4 hr, C=6 hr, D=8 hr); timer expiration forces charge termination and asserts fault status on STAT1/STAT2.

Can MCP73871-3CCI/ML support both USB and AC-DC inputs simultaneously?

No - the MCP73871-3CCI/ML autonomously selects between USB and AC-DC inputs based on the SEL pin state (Low = USB, High = AC-DC), but does not parallel or combine them. It supports only one active input source at a time, with automatic switchover upon source removal or failure.

What thermal protection features does MCP73871-3CCI/ML include?

The MCP73871-3CCI/ML includes three thermal protections: (1) junction temperature shutdown at 150 °C (10 °C hysteresis), (2) thermal regulation that reduces charge current above safe die temperatures, and (3) thermistor-based battery temperature monitoring using a 50 μA bias current and dual-voltage comparators (1.24 V / 0.25 V thresholds).