Nexperia USA Inc. NBM5100ABQX

Overview

NBM5100ABQX from Nexperia is a coin-cell battery life booster IC implementing adaptive two-stage DC-DC energy transfer and intelligent learning for lithium thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl₂) primary batteries. It delivers regulated 1.8–3.6 V output at ≥150 mA pulse load current, maintains ultra-low 20 nA standby current, and operates across −40 °C to +85 °C - enabling multi-year operation in wireless IoT sensor nodes with burst transmission.

For engineers reviewing the NBM5100ABQX datasheet, NBM5100ABQX pinout, NBM5100ABQX application, or NBM5100ABQX equivalent, this device addresses critical challenges in low-power, high-pulse-load systems: voltage sag mitigation, capacitor-based energy buffering, programmable battery load current (2–16 mA), integrated fuel gauge, and I²C-configurable operation with RDY status signaling.

Technical Context

The NBM5100ABQX implements a dual-conversion architecture: first stage transfers energy from VBT to CAP at constant current (2–16 mA), charging an external storage capacitor; second stage converts stored energy into a regulated, low-ripple VDH output capable of >150 mA pulsed loads. The proprietary learning algorithm dynamically adjusts charge current to minimize residual capacitor voltage after each cycle.

It integrates analog sensing (VDHS input), capacitor balancing (BAL pin), permanent low-current VDP supply (30 Ω output impedance), and digital control via I²C interface (SCL/SDA/ADR/START). RDY provides real-time status indication, and TST is reserved for factory test only.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: DHVQFN16 (SOT763-1), 2.5 mm × 3.5 mm × 0.85 mm, lead-free, thermal-enhanced, with exposed ground pad (soldered to VSS).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar battery energy management applications.

Compared with BQ25504 and ADP5090, the NBM5100ABQX uniquely combines 20 nA standby, I²C-programmable charge current, integrated fuel gauge, and dual-rail (VDH/VDP) delivery - making it the only solution qualified for >10-year, maintenance-free Li-SOCl₂ deployments in unattended IoT infrastructure.

Availability

NBM5100ABQX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Bluetooth® sensor nodes, LoRaWAN® asset trackers, NB-IoT smart meters, and electronic shelf labels requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for NBM5100ABQX 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

Nexperia is a global semiconductor expert delivering high-performance, reliable components for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets, with leadership in logic, MOSFETs, diodes, and power management.

The NBM5100 series is part of Nexperia's ultra-low-power battery management portfolio, engineered specifically to unlock full capacity from primary lithium cells in intermittent, high-pulse IoT applications - replacing legacy linear regulators and inefficient discrete boost solutions.

FAQ

What is the minimum battery voltage required to start the NBM5100ABQX?

The NBM5100ABQX features a programmable power-on reset (POR) threshold. At −40 °C, startup occurs at 1.3 V; at 25–85 °C, it starts reliably at 1.3 V, with upper limit 2.3 V. This ensures robust cold-weather activation from aging Li-SOCl₂ cells while preventing false starts due to leakage currents.

Can the NBM5100ABQX drive a 3.3 V microcontroller directly?

Yes. The VDH output is programmable from 1.8 V to 3.6 V in precise steps and maintains ±1% load regulation up to 150 mA. When configured to 3.3 V, it meets standard MCU core voltage requirements with low ripple (<10 mVpp) and fast transient response - verified across −40 °C to +85 °C.

How does the adaptive learning algorithm improve battery life?

The algorithm monitors energy consumed per pulse cycle and dynamically adjusts the first-stage charge current to minimize residual voltage on the storage capacitor (CAP) after discharge. This reduces wasted energy and prevents overcharging, extending effective battery capacity by up to 37% compared to fixed-charge schemes in real-world duty cycles.

Is an external inductor required, and what are its specifications?

Yes. A 15 µH shielded power inductor (saturation current >1 A) is mandatory between LX1 and LX2 pins. Recommended part: Coilcraft XAL5030-152MEB (15 µH, 1.3 A Isat, 100 mΩ DCR). Inductor selection directly impacts conversion efficiency (>90%) and EMI performance in compact PCB layouts.