LTC4020 parallel diode

Question

We are designing a battery charging system with the LTC4020 for a 3A max charge and 20A max discharge. In order to save space and lower potential losses, can a Schottky diode be added in parallel with the PowerPath FET? 
 
 Thank you.

ntenorio · Accepted Answer

Hi @mzilvetti, 
 Upon consulting the device experts, 
 It is assumed that the Schottky diode is for conducting the 20A discharge current. I don&rsquo;t see a problem with this. Note that the discharge current will be shared between the PowerPath FET and the added Schottky diode. The current going through the PowerPath FET will be Vf/Rds-on, where Vf is the forward voltage drop of the Schottky and Rds-on is the on-state resistance of the PowerPath FET. 
 Hope this helps. 
 Best regards, 
 Noel)

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LTC4020 parallel diode