The PS4160EV Evaluation Kit provides the opportunity
to evaluate the PS401 IC quickly and easily. The evaluation
kit contains all of the hardware and software
necessary to implement a fully functional smart battery
and demonstrate all operating modes. The included
PS4160 module is a complete smart battery controller
subsystem, based on the Microchip PS401 battery
manager with patented Accuron? technology. The
module is designed to operate in a battery pack
consisting of three (3) and four (4) series connected
Li-based cells. The module consists of the Microchip
PS401 battery manager IC, with a four LED SOC display,
safety circuit, and an optional connection for an
external thermistor.
The included PowerTool? Windows?-based software
can be used to modify the programming in the preprogrammed
evaluation module. Although many interdependent
parameters must be taken into account
when programming the battery manager, the process is
simplified with the PowerTool configuration wizard.