austriamicrosystems devices provide 'numerous safety features'

According to the analogue IC specialist, the AS3610/11 step down dc/dc chargers offer fast and highly efficient charging of Li-Ion batteries in mobile devices with up to 1.25A output current. The devices incorporate a number of safety and protection features, internal current measurement, and USB Host/OTG (on the go) boost mode operation. The AS3610 dc/dc charger provides an I^²C interface for external control and the AS3611 operates independently. Suitable for applications powered by one Li-Ion battery, potential applications include high end blood glucose meters, remote controls, GPS outdoor navigation or tracking equipment, mobile phones, e-dictionaries and e-book readers. austriamicrosystems says the switching charger ICs were designed with inputs from the handset and portable markets to use a high efficiency switch mode charger with minimum ripple. Implementation is simplified with most options and features controlled by pin strapping or OTP. Features include current limit set, charging current and OTG boost. The AS3610 also supports 900mA input current limitation for USB 3.0. "Modern mobile devices incorporate more features while demanding higher battery life", said Peter Kammerlander, product manager at austriamicrosystems. "The mobile industry asked for higher efficiency dc/dc chargers, with numerous options. These options enable the customer to reuse one design across a family of end product with minimal customisation to support each model. The AS3610/11 features high current, low heat dissipation and all necessary safety features to safely give the end user the shortest possible charging time. Despite all these features, only a minimal number of external components are needed." The devices are available now, along with a demo board which is designed to reduce development time.