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ALD extends Supercapacitor Auto-Balancing (SAB) MOSFET family

Advanced Linear Devices (ALD) has announced the latest addition to its Supercapacitor Auto-Balancing (SAB) MOSFET family.

Supercapacitor Auto-Balancing (SAB) MOSFET family Credit: ALD

A dual MOSFET, it provides unmatched auto-balancing capabilities and power management for supercapacitors ranging from 2.8V to 3.3V. The ALD910030 uses virtually no power for cell balancing and prevents most catastrophic failures. The chip enhances performance across various sectors, including utility boxes, backup power systems, industrial applications, uninterruptable power supplies, renewable energy and consumer electronics.

Traditionally, widely used supercapacitors had a voltage rating of 2.7V to 3.0V. However, 3.3V supercapacitors are increasing the demand for advanced voltage and leakage current balancing schemes. ALD's latest SAB MOSFET addresses this need by precisely and effectively balancing series-connected supercapacitors.

It does this by dissipating near-zero leakage currents, so that the chip practically eliminates excessive power usage, making it an energy-efficient solution for a wide range of applications. Each part is precision factory-trimmed according to individual voltage specifications.

Supercapacitors are commonly connected in series to reach targeted voltage levels. For instance, four 3.3V-rated supercaps can be stacked for applications that need a standard 12V direct current supply voltage. This configuration will produce 13.2V, satisfying the requirements of a 12V power supply while allowing for potential fluctuations.

With its unique electrical characteristics, the ALD910030 ensures precise monitoring and control of voltage and leakage current for each supercapacitor in a series-connected stack. The chip exponentially adjusts drain currents to effectively balance voltages, safeguarding against voltage runaway power fluctuations. The MOSFET operates within a temperature range from -40°C to +85°C.

ALD offers a wide range of SAB MOSFETs to balance supercapacitors from 1.6V up to 3.0V or higher.