Microchip Technology MCP73871-4CCI/ML

Overview

MCP73871-4CCI/ML from Microchip Technology is a fully integrated linear Li-ion/Li-polymer battery charge management IC with system load sharing, supporting simultaneous system power delivery and battery charging from USB or AC-DC sources. It features ±0.5% voltage regulation at 4.20 V, resistor-programmable fast charge current up to 1 A, thermal regulation, and 20-pin QFN (4 mm × 4 mm) packaging - deployed in portable medical devices and GPS navigators.

For engineers reviewing the MCP73871-4CCI/ML datasheet, MCP73871-4CCI/ML pinout, MCP73871-4CCI/ML application, or MCP73871-4CCI/ML equivalent, key selection criteria include its VPCC-based input priority control, dual-source input selection (SEL pin), open-drain status outputs (STAT1/LBO, STAT2, PG), thermistor-based temperature monitoring, and factory-set 4.20 V charge voltage with 6-hour safety timer.

Technical Context

The MCP73871-4CCI/ML implements a constant-current/constant-voltage (CC/CV) charge algorithm with autonomous power source arbitration between battery and input (USB or AC-DC). Its Voltage Proportional Current Control (VPCC) dynamically reduces charge current when input voltage sags, preserving system load priority.

It integrates dual pass transistors (IN→OUT and VBAT→OUT) with 200 mΩ R_DS(on), reverse discharge protection, and internal current sensing. The device uses a 1.21 V reference for regulation and supports preconditioning (0.1C trickle charge), automatic recharge, and thermal shutdown at 150°C with 10°C 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 to ground plane for thermal performance and electrical stability.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BQ24075RGTR and MCP73831T-2DCI/OT, the MCP73871-4CCI/ML uniquely delivers VPCC-based adaptive current allocation, factory-set 4.20 V regulation with ±0.5% accuracy, and integrated LBO/thermistor support in a 20-pin QFN - making it optimal for portable medical and navigation equipment demanding robust power path control.

Availability

MCP73871-4CCI/ML is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPS navigation devices, portable medical monitors, and smartphone docking stations requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MCP73871-4CCI/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, interface, and power management ICs, with broad industrial and automotive qualification programs.

The MCP73871-4CCI/ML belongs to Microchip's dedicated battery charge management product line, designed specifically for portable consumer and medical devices requiring autonomous dual-source power path control and JEITA-compliant thermal safety.

FAQ

What is the factory-set charge voltage for MCP73871-4CCI/ML?

The MCP73871-4CCI/ML is configured for a fixed 4.20 V constant-voltage charge setting with ±0.5% regulation tolerance at 25°C. This value is laser-trimmed during manufacturing and cannot be adjusted externally. It matches the standard termination voltage for most commercial Li-ion cells and eliminates the need for external resistor dividers or configuration registers found in programmable alternatives.

How does the VPCC feature function in MCP73871-4CCI/ML?

In the MCP73871-4CCI/ML, the VPCC pin enables Voltage Proportional Current Control: when the IN supply voltage drops near the VPCC threshold (1.23 V), the IC automatically reduces charge current to preserve system load voltage. This prevents brownouts during transient input sags - for example, when a USB host port experiences momentary voltage dip under load - while maintaining uninterrupted system operation.

What does the "-4C" suffix indicate in MCP73871-4CCI/ML?

The "-4C" in MCP73871-4CCI/ML denotes two factory-configured options: "4" specifies the 4.20 V charge voltage option, and "C" sets the low-battery indicator (LBO) threshold to 3.1 V and enables the 6-hour safety timer. This variant is optimized for applications requiring precise voltage matching and moderate-duration charge supervision, such as portable diagnostics equipment.

Can MCP73871-4CCI/ML operate without a thermistor?

Yes, the MCP73871-4CCI/ML can operate without a thermistor. The THERM pin may be left unconnected or tied to VSS to disable temperature monitoring. However, doing so removes JEITA-compliant thermal fault protection - a requirement for many medical and industrial certifications. If thermal safety is needed, a 10 kΩ NTC thermistor must be connected between THERM and VSS.

What is the role of the exposed thermal pad (EP) on MCP73871-4CCI/ML?

The exposed thermal pad (EP) on the MCP73871-4CCI/ML is electrically connected to VSS and must be soldered to a PCB ground plane. It reduces thermal resistance (θ_JA = 50°C/W) and improves power dissipation during high-current charging. Omitting EP connection risks thermal shutdown at currents above ~800 mA and violates Microchip's recommended layout - directly impacting reliability in sustained 1 A charge applications.