Maxim's MAX17710 is a complete system for charging and protecting micropower storage cells such as Infinite Power Solution's THINERGY® microenergy cells (MECs). The IC can manage poorly regulated sources such as energy harvesting devices with output levels ranging from 1 μW to 100 mW. The device also includes a boost regulator circuit for charging the cell from a source as low as 0.75 V (typ). An internal regulator protects the cell from overcharging.

Output voltages supplied to the target applications are regulated using a low-dropout (LDO) linear regulator with selectable voltages of 3.3 V, 2.3 V, or 1.8 V. The output regulator operates in a selectable low-power or ultra-low-power mode to minimize drain of the cell. Internal voltage protection prevents the cell from over-discharging.