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Charge Indicator circuit misbehaving

Thread Summary

The user encountered an issue with the charge indicator not releasing after the charge cycle completes in a custom instant-on circuit for a 33.6V peak, 28V nominal battery pack. The final answer identified that the charger's maximum output voltage was set too close to the battery's full-charge voltage, causing the battery to never fully charge and the indicator to remain stuck. Adjusting R35/R37 to increase the maximum output voltage resolved the issue.
AI Generated Content
Category: Hardware
Product Number: LTC4020

Hello we have implemented the recommended circuit in the datasheet for instant-on with some minor changes. When a battery is connected and a charge cycle has started the indicator pin goes low as expected, BUT after the charge cycle completes the charge indicator does not release. Regardless of time that has passed. Our pack voltage is 33.6V peak and 28V nominal. I would also like to mention that it has been observed in some cases where the charge indicator pin oscillates from high to low. How can we ensure the signal is asserted and released when it is supposed to be? I have attached the schematic of the implemented design as well as what the STAT1 and STAT2 pins are connected to.

Thank you for your time!

 ES-10015-SCH-REVE-p4-p9-redacted.PDF

  • I figured it out.

    The charger's maximum output voltage is set too close to the battery's full-charge voltage. On some boards, normal part tolerances put the maximum at or below full charge. The battery then never reaches full charge, so the charger never switches to the mode where it checks the current. That leaves the charge indicator stuck on "charging".

    Changing R35/R37 raises the maximum so there's room for the battery to get there.

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