The MAX8903A is an integrated 1-cell Li+ charger and Smart Power Selector? with dual (AC adapter and USB) power inputs. The switch mode charger uses a high switching frequency to eliminate heat and allow tiny external components. It can operate with either separate inputs for USB and AC adapter power, or from a single input that accepts both. All power switches for charging and switching the load between battery and external power are included on-chip. No external MOSFETs, blocking diodes, or current-sense resistors are required.

The MAX8903A features optimized smart power control to make the best use of limited USB or adapter power. Battery charge current and SYS output current limit are independently set. Power not used by the system charges the battery. Charge current and SYS output current limit can be set up to 2A while USB input current can be set to 100mA or 500mA. Automatic input selection switches the system from battery to external power. The DC input operates from 4.15V to 16V with up to 20V protection, while the USB input has a range of 4.1V to 6.3V with up to 8V protection.

The MAX8903A internally blocks current from the battery and system back to the DC and USB inputs when no input supply is present. Other features include prequal charging and timer, fast charge timer, overvoltage protection, charge status and fault outputs, power-OK monitors, and a battery thermistor monitor. In addition, on-chip thermal limiting reduces battery charge rate and AC adapter current to prevent charger overheating. The MAX8903A is available in a 4mm x 4mm, 28-pin thin QFN package.