LTC’s LTC4412 controls an external P-channel MOSFET to create a near ideal diode function for power switch-over or for load sharing. This permits highly efficient OR-ing of multiple power sources for extended battery life and low self-heating. When conducting, the voltage drop across the MOSFET is typically 20 mV. For applications with a wall adapter or other auxiliary power source, the load is automatically disconnected from the battery when the auxiliary source is connected.

Two or more LTC4412s may be daisy-chained /interconnected to allow load sharing between multiple batteries or charging of multiple batteries from a single charger. The wide supply operating range supports operation from one to six Li-Ion cells in series. The low quiescent current (11 µA typical) is independent of the load current. The gate driver includes an internal voltage clamp for MOSFET protection. The LTC4412 is ideal for handheld, battery, and smart applications such as cellphones, notebooks, and tablets.