In portable applications, overall system size and system operating time are primary design issues. As a result, portable system and battery pack manufacturers generally attempt to package as much battery power in the smallest amount of space. Integrating a PC board for battery monitoring in a battery pack without compromising space and energy density requires a highly integrated solution. The bq2019 integrates an internal temperature sensor that monitors battery temperature to allow estimation of the battery's self-discharge rate. This function is important for determining remaining operating time, especially for devices, like cellular phones, that are often kept in standby mode.
Temperature measurements are also key to ensuring safe battery conditions.
Thanks to this on-chip flash, no external source is needed to retain the parameters should the battery become deeply discharged. Moreover, the ROM and the temperature sensor eliminate the need for additional battery contacts compared to external components. In fact, all communication between the bq2019 and the host processor is through a simple, single-wire serial interface. Additional space and cost savings arise from the on-chip time base that does not need an external crystal for its oscillator. Texas Instruments Incorporated.