CHARGING METHODS FOR BATTERY POWERED DEVICES

摘要

A battery charge control system including an algorithm for determining whether the battery chemistry of a battery pack for use in a portable electronic device is primary, in which case charging is prevented, or secondary, in which case charging is enabled. The routine operates by measuring the terminal voltage and temperature of the battery under certain predetermined tests, which generally include a combination of voltage and internal impedance tests performed during charge or discharge. Additionally, a method is described to detect and to correct for lack of cell balance within the rechargeable battery pack of a portable electronic device. A cell or cells of the battery pack which are close to depletion, or are completely depleted, are detected, and a discharge/charge routine is executed to provide for optimum recharging of all of the cells of the battery, thus ensuring proper cell balance, and most efficient power usage.