Charge Ahead: Intelligent Battery Management For Optimal Design

Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries are common in rechargeable tools, handheld devices and E-mobility. Li-Ion has many benefits over other battery chemistries in these and many more applications but be aware. There are pitfalls to avoid in charging and discharging regimes to achieve a safe and long, reliable life. In this blog post, we discuss the challenges and identify the ideal solutions. We also introduce a new, integrated, intelligent battery management, single-chip solution that provides unique features and a high level of control for maximum run time, flexibility and safety.

Battery technology is more than 200 years old and counting

Batteries have been around since 1800 when Italian Alessandro Volta invented his ‘voltaic pile’ with copper and zinc discs separated by brine-soaked cardboard. But these were ‘primary cells’ that degraded quickly and couldn’t be recharged. It took another 59 years before rechargeable or ‘secondary cells’ were invented with their lead and acid construction. The scene was then set for the development of battery technologies – resulting in today’s long talk-time cell phones, powerful cordless hand tools and electric vehicles (EVs). All provide decent range—from e-bikes to electric supercars. Legislation is also a driver. For example, California may outlaw sales of new gas-powered garden machinery by as early as 2024, with cordless electric versions being the only sensible alternative.