Microchip Technology MCP73871T-3CAI/ML
- Part No.:
- MCP73871T-3CAI/ML
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Battery Chargers
- Package:
- 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MCP73871T-3CAI/ML.pdf
- Description:
- IC BATT CHG LI-ION 1CELL 20QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MCP73871T-3CAI/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 4.35V, 1.8A total input current limit, and thermal regulation. It powers portable electronics while autonomously prioritizing system load over battery charging via Voltage Proportional Current Control (VPCC).
For engineers reviewing the MCP73871T-3CAI/ML datasheet, MCP73871T-3CAI/ML pinout, MCP73871T-3CAI/ML application, or MCP73871T-3CAI/ML equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4.35V fixed charge voltage option, LBO threshold of 3.1V ('C' suffix), 6-hour safety timer ('3' suffix), 20-pin QFN package, and integrated power-path management for GPS, medical devices, and docking stations.
Technical Context
The MCP73871T-3CAI/ML implements a constant-current/constant-voltage (CC/CV) charge algorithm with resistor-programmable fast charge current (50 mA to 1 A), selectable termination (7.5–12.5% of IREG), and automatic recharge at VREG – 0.15V. Its VPCC circuit dynamically reduces charge current when input voltage drops below 1.23V at the VPCC pin, preserving system operation during weak-source conditions.
It integrates dual pass transistors (IN→OUT and VBAT→OUT) with 200 mΩ RDS(on), reverse discharge protection, and thermistor-based temperature monitoring using a 50 μA bias current. The device operates across –40°C to +85°C ambient and includes open-drain status outputs (STAT1/LBO, STAT2, PG) with 16 mA sink capability.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Charge Voltage | 4.35V ±0.5% - factory-trimmed precision setting for high-capacity Li-ion cells requiring elevated termination voltage. |
| Max Input Current | 1.8A total - shared between system load and battery charge; enables high-power portable designs without external current limiting. |
| Fast Charge Current | 50 mA to 1 A - set by PROG1 resistor; supports wide battery capacity range (e.g., 100 mAh to 2000 mAh) with single-component tuning. |
| LBO Threshold | 3.1V - 'C' in part number indicates fixed low-battery detection level for host system shutdown or alert signaling. |
| Safety Timer | 6 hours - '3' in part number denotes factory-configured elapsed-time safety cutoff to prevent overcharge under fault conditions. |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +85°C - fully specified industrial temperature range ensures reliability in handheld and medical environments. |
| Package | 20-Lead QFN (4 mm × 4 mm) with exposed thermal pad - enables compact layout and efficient heat dissipation in space-constrained PCBs. |
Pinout & Package
20-Lead QFN (4 mm × 4 mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP), internally connected to VSS. Requires PCB thermal pad connection for thermal performance and electrical reference integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 20 (OUT) | System output terminal | Delivers regulated power to system load; maintains operation even with deeply depleted or absent battery via ideal diode path. |
| 2 (VPCC) | Voltage proportional charge control input | Enables dynamic charge current reduction when input voltage sags; tied to IN to disable feature. |
| 3 (SEL) | Input source selection | High = AC-DC adapter mode (1.8A total); Low = USB mode (100/500 mA compliance). |
| 4 (PROG2) | USB current limit select | Digital input: Low = 100 mA, High = 500 mA - enforces USB specification limits without external logic. |
| 5 (THERM) | Thermistor monitor I/O | 50 μA bias current source for NTC thermistor; triggers charge suspension if voltage falls outside 0.25V–1.24V window. |
| 6 (PG) | Power Good status output | Open-drain indicator active-low when VIN > UVLO and VIN > VBAT - signals valid input power to host MCU or LED. |
| 7 (STAT2) | Charge status output 2 | Open-drain signal indicating charge complete (low) or active charging (high-impedance); used with STAT1 for state decoding. |
| 8 (STAT1/LBO) | Charge status / low battery output | Open-drain dual-function pin: low during charging or when VBAT < 3.1V and system runs on battery. |
| 9 (TE) | Timer Enable input | Active-low enable for 6-hour safety timer; floating or high disables timer - allows host-controlled timeout override. |
| 10, 11, EP (VSS) | Battery management ground | Common 0V reference for battery, system, and input; EP must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical stability. |
| 12 (PROG3) | Termination set point | Resistor-to-VSS sets end-of-charge current ratio (7.5–12.5% of IREG) - determines CV mode cutoff sensitivity. |
| 13 (PROG1) | Fast charge current regulator | Resistor-to-VSS programs IREG (50–1000 mA); also sets preconditioning current at 10% of IREG. |
| 14, 15 (VBAT) | Battery positive connection | Main battery terminal; bypassed with ≥4.7 μF capacitor to stabilize charge loop and suppress transients. |
| 16 (VBAT_SENSE) | Battery voltage sense | Precision feedback node for VREG regulation; internal 0.001× gain enables accurate remote sensing without external dividers. |
| 17 (CE) | Charge Enable input | Active-high digital enable; low disables all charging functions while preserving system power delivery from battery or input. |
| 18, 19 (IN) | Power supply input | Accepts 4.3V–6V input; bypassed with ≥4.7 μF capacitor; UVLO activates below ~4.2V depending on VBAT. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated system load sharing | Ensures OUT remains powered from IN or VBAT without interruption, enabling boot-up with 0V battery and extending usable runtime. |
| Voltage Proportional Current Control (VPCC) | Automatically scales charge current downward as input voltage declines - preserves system functionality during USB cable dropouts or wall adapter brownouts. |
| Four factory-set charge voltages | 4.10V/4.20V/4.35V/4.40V options accommodate evolving Li-ion chemistries; MCP73871T-3CAI/ML uses 4.35V for higher energy density cells. |
| Thermal regulation with die temperature sensing | Reduces charge current above 150°C junction temperature - prevents thermal runaway and enables safe operation in sealed enclosures. |
| Programmable safety timer and automatic recharge | 6-hour factory-set timer prevents indefinite charging; recharge initiates at VBAT = VREG – 0.15V - avoids premature cell degradation from shallow cycling. |
| Low-battery indicator with hysteresis | 3.1V LBO threshold with 150 mV hysteresis eliminates chatter during battery sag; supports graceful system shutdown in portable devices. |
Applications
| GPS Navigation Devices | Portable Medical Monitors |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact handheld GPS units requiring continuous operation from Li-ion battery with USB recharging capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-chip charge manager providing simultaneous system power and battery charging, with USB compliance enforcement and thermal safety. Use Value: Enables 24/7 field use with hot-swap battery support and reliable charge termination at 4.35V for extended cycle life. |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered ECG or pulse oximeter with strict safety and runtime requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Autonomous charge controller with temperature monitoring, low-battery alert, and 6-hour safety timer for regulatory compliance. Use Value: Guarantees fail-safe charging behavior and precise 3.1V LBO threshold for controlled power-down before critical sensor failure. |
| Docking Stations | Bluetooth Headsets |
Use Scenario: Multi-device cradle that charges phones/tablets while powering its own logic and displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-input (AC/USB) power manager with load-sharing priority and 1.8A total current handling. Use Value: Eliminates need for external OR-ing diodes or discrete current limiting, reducing BOM count and board area. |
Use Scenario: Ultra-low-power wireless headset with small-form-factor Li-Po battery and micro-USB charging port. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Space-optimized linear charger with 100 mA USB current limit, preconditioning, and open-drain status for MCU polling. Use Value: Supports deep-discharge recovery (0.1C precondition) and extends usable battery capacity through precise 4.35V regulation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Li-ion charge management applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BQ24075RGTR | Fixed 4.2V charge voltage; no VPCC; 1.5A max input; no LBO output; 16-pin QFN | Lacks voltage-proportional current scaling and programmable LBO - unsuitable for systems requiring adaptive charge under weak USB sources. | Select only if 4.2V regulation suffices and VPCC/LBO are not required; verify thermal derating at 1.5A. |
| MCP73831T-2DCI/OT | Single-input (USB only); 500 mA max charge; no SEL/PROG2; 8-pin SOT-23; no LBO or timer | Targeted at cost-sensitive, low-power USB-only devices - lacks AC-DC support, system load sharing, and safety timer. | Use only for simple USB-charged wearables; cannot replace MCP73871T-3CAI/ML in dual-source or high-reliability applications. |
Compared with BQ24075RGTR and MCP73831T-2DCI/OT, the MCP73871T-3CAI/ML uniquely delivers 4.35V regulation, VPCC-based adaptive charging, 3.1V LBO, and 6-hour safety timer in a single 20-pin QFN - making it optimal for premium portable medical and navigation equipment demanding robust, multi-source power management.
Availability
MCP73871T-3CAI/ML is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPS navigation devices, portable medical monitors, and docking stations requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed industrial temperature performance.
Supply support for MCP73871T-3CAI/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 Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog components, and battery management solutions, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon and design support.
The MCP73871 product line delivers fully integrated linear charge controllers with system load sharing for portable Li-ion applications - designed to minimize external components while maximizing safety, flexibility, and USB/AC-DC dual-source compatibility.
FAQ
What does the '3C' in MCP73871T-3CAI/ML indicate?
The '3' specifies a factory-configured 6-hour safety timer, and the 'C' denotes a 3.1V low-battery output (LBO) threshold. These are hard-coded options in the MCP73871T-3CAI/ML variant - confirmed in Section 3.13 and 3.14 of the DS20002090E datasheet. This eliminates external configuration components and ensures consistent behavior across production units.
How does MCP73871T-3CAI/ML handle input source switching between USB and AC-DC adapter?
MCP73871T-3CAI/ML uses the SEL pin to auto-select input behavior: SEL high enables AC-DC mode with up to 1.8A total current (system + charge), while SEL low configures USB mode with 100/500 mA limits via PROG2. The device never connects both sources simultaneously - it prioritizes the active input and manages power-path isolation internally.
Can MCP73871T-3CAI/ML charge a battery while the system is powered from that same battery?
No - MCP73871T-3CAI/ML requires an external input (IN) to initiate charging. When IN is absent, the device enters shutdown or standby; it does not draw power from VBAT to charge itself. However, it *can* power the system from VBAT while charging is inactive, and resume charging immediately when IN is reapplied.
What is the purpose of the VPCC pin on MCP73871T-3CAI/ML, and how is it used?
The VPCC pin enables Voltage Proportional Current Control: when VPCC voltage drops below 1.23V (e.g., due to USB cable resistance), MCP73871T-3CAI/ML automatically reduces charge current to preserve system voltage at OUT. It is typically driven by a resistive divider from IN - disabling VPCC by tying it directly to IN removes this adaptive behavior.
Does MCP73871T-3CAI/ML support NTC thermistor-based temperature monitoring during charging?
Yes - MCP73871T-3CAI/ML includes a dedicated THERM pin with a 50 μA internal current source for biasing standard 10 kΩ NTC thermistors. It compares the resulting voltage against factory-set thresholds (0.25V and 1.24V) and suspends charging if outside the valid window - a critical safety feature for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML in medical and wearable applications.
MCP73871T-3CAI/ML Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Battery Chemistry:
- Lithium Ion/Polymer
- Number of Cells:
- 1
- Current - Charging:
- Constant - Programmable
- Programmable Features:
- Timer
- Fault Protection:
- Over Temperature
- Charge Current - Max:
- 1.1A
- Battery Pack Voltage:
- 4.35V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 6V
- Interface:
- USB
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-QFN (4x4)
MCP73871T-3CAI/ML FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML reliable?
The price and inventory of MCP73871T-3CAI/ML are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML is usually 5 days.
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5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML?
For technical support, including MCP73871T-3CAI/ML datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MCP73871T-3CAI/ML requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MCP73871T-3CAI/ML is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MCP73871T-3CAI/ML products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MCP73871T-3CAI/ML meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MCP73871T-3CAI/ML?
All MCP73871T-3CAI/ML units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MCP73871T-3CAI/ML, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MCP73871T-3CAI/ML part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MCP73871T-3CAI/ML:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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