Maxim launches New Cell Management Solutions

Maxim Integrated Products Inc. has announced that it is sampling the MAX14920/MAX14921, high-accuracy, 12/16-channel cell-measurement analog front-ends (AFEs) that lower battery-management electronics costs by up to 35%. These devices double the accuracy of cell voltage readings through the use of high-accuracy common-mode level shifting and an integrated high-precision amplifier that simplifies ADC data conversion.

The MAX14920/MAX14921 is ideal for 48V to 65V pack voltages required in uninterruptible power-supply (UPS) systems, smart grid energy-storage packs, and telecom power backup-battery packs, the MAX14921 eliminates up to two 6-channel AFEs required for 13S-16S channel battery packs.

"We strategically integrated only the cell voltage sampling and a high precision amplifier to optimize accuracy, while also enabling system flexibility. With a flexible battery-management system (BMS) design that can be reused from 3 to 16 channels, we enable optimized front-end solutions based on individual system requirements and cost. This also provides a time-to-market advantage," said Tim Leung, Business Manager, Maxim Integrated.

Available in a 64-pin (10mm x 10mm) TQFP package, the MAX14920 is priced at $5.04. The MAX14921is available in an 80-pin (12mm x 12mm) TQFP package and its price starts at $6.15.
Both devices operate over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range.