The LT1769 current mode PWM battery charger is a simple, efficient solution to fast charge modern rechargeable batteries including lithium-ion (Li-Ion), nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) and nickel-cadmium (NiCd) that require constant-current and/or constant-voltage charging. The internal switch is capable of delivering 2A** DC current (3A peak current). Charge current can be programmed by resistors or a DAC to within 5%. With 0.5% reference voltage accuracy, the LT1769 meets the critical constant-voltage charging requirement for Li-Ion cells.A third control loop is provided to regulate the current drawn from the input AC adapter. This allows simultaneous operation of the equipment and battery charging without overloading the adapter. Charge current is reduced to keep the adapter current below specified levels.The LT1769 can charge batteries ranging from 1V to 20V. Ground sensing of current is not required and the battery’s negative terminal can be tied directly to ground. A saturating switch running at 200kHz gives high charging efficiency and small inductor size. A blocking diode is not required between the chip and the battery because the chip goes into sleep mode and drains only 3µA when the wall adapter is unplugged.ApplicationsChargers for NiCd, NiMH, Lead-Acid, Lithium Rechargeable BatteriesSwitching Regulators with Precision Current Limit