Predicts battery life with 99% accuracy

The bq27500 system-side fuel gauge IC can help determine the age old question: How much battery life do I really have left? The chip uses Impedance Track technology and targets smart phones and other handhelds. The 2.5 x 4-mm gauge predicts battery life with 99% accuracy to help users protect data and possibly extend battery usage.

The IC analyzes precise state-of-charge by correlating between a battery¡¯s voltage and cell impedance, or resistance, and its current integration to adjust remaining state-of-charge up or down the predicted discharge curve. It directly measures the effect of a battery¡¯s discharge rate, temperature, age and other factors to predict remaining life within 1% error. By measuring and storing real-time battery impedance values, the IC automatically adjusts to changes in full capacity as a battery ages.

The bq27500 is implemented on the host system¡¯s board, and can support an embedded or removable battery.