PowerSmart Is First To Distribute Smart Battery ICs with Error Checking Mechanism.

SHELTON, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 18, 1999--

New Smart Battery IC Increases Reliability and Accuracy of Data Communications: PowerSmart, Inc., is the first manufacturer to begin shipping production quantities of smart battery ICs that enable data error checking. PowerSmart's PS331 supports Packet Error Checking per version 1.1 of the System Management Bus Specification, and predicts battery capacity remaining to within 1%. SMBus version 1.1 calls for an error checking mechanism in order to improve the reliability and communications robustness of smart batteries used in notebook computers and other devices.

The PS331 is the most advanced product in PowerSmart's P3 family of smart battery ICs, developed in response to industry demand for high accuracy and reliability of smart data communications. The new PS331 enables a host device, which appends a Packet Error Code (PEC) at the end of each message transfer, to check the integrity of the data communication. For each read or write bus transaction, an 8-bit cyclic redundancy check (CRC-8) is used to calculate a frame check sequence. Only one millisecond is required for the CRC-8 calculation of a single data byte. The PS331 is also capable of communicating with devices that do not implement PEC error correction protocols.

The PS331 is designed for use with all battery chemistries and brings a new level of reliability and customization not available before with other smart battery ICs. PowerSmart provides all the necessary software to enable easy tailoring of battery control algorithm parameters and cell performance models to meet specific application requirements and attain the highest fuel gauging accuracy available anywhere.

The PS331's integrating, self-calibrating 14-bit A/D ensures precise measurements of current, voltage and temperature to enable remaining runtime predictions to within 1%. Patented, self-learning algorithms compensate for self-discharge, temperature, charge/discharge efficiencies and other factors, and an auto-zero offset correction feature automatically compensates for accuracy drift during usage. An advanced 8-bit RISC microprocessor enables exceptionally fast data computations.

The PS331 is packaged in a standard 28-pin 209-mil SSOP and is priced at under $4.00 in large quantities. Evaluation Kits are also available for purchase at $199. Kits include all necessary hardware and software for programming of battery control algorithm parameters and for customizing preprogrammed cell data models.

For more information on the PS331, including data sheets and images, visit PowerSmart's Web site: http://www.powersmart.com

PowerSmart, Inc., provides smart battery and charger electronics for use with all battery chemistries, including custom and standard modules with and without safety circuits. Engineering design, software and smart battery implementation services are also offered. For more technical information and to place sample orders, please contact Michael Mattera, Director of Technical Sales, PowerSmart, Inc., One Research Drive, Shelton, CT 06484, [phone].