Debating the Phasing Out of the TP4056 ChargingIC?
In the world of DIY electronics, a debate has been brewing about the use of charge controllers for lithium batteries. Lefty Maker, a well-known figure in the maker community, has been promoting the BQ25185 as a potential alternative to the popular TP4056.
The TP4056, a favourite among makers and hackers, is a simple linear charger that, while easy to work with, has its drawbacks. It is often found on cheap charge modules, which Lefty Maker criticises for lacking mounting holes and proper USB-PD.
However, using the BQ25185 instead of the TP4056 does not necessitate these shortcomings. The BQ25185 offers variable under- and over-charge protection voltages, making it a more versatile option. Moreover, it can be customised to suit specific project needs, a significant advantage when making one's own boards.
Lefty Maker has taken this a step further, creating his own charge controller board using the BQ25185. This board can be designed to include additional features such as a longer USB port, indicator LEDs, and a built-in battery compartment.
The BQ25185's added price is a point of contention, with Lefty Maker stating it is more than a 300% increase compared to the TP4056. However, the cost of custom PCBs has decreased significantly, making it justifiable to roll one's own charging board.
Another promising switch-mode alternative to the TP4056 is the BQ25630 from Texas Instruments. This IC offers a DC-DC converter and an integrated ADC for monitoring currents and voltages in the power chain. Unlike the TP4056, the BQ25630 offers better efficiency due to its switch-mode design, but is more complex and requires additional passive components.
The TP4056 remains popular due to its simplicity, ease of soldering, and low cost, despite its inefficiency as a linear charger. While Lefty Maker and others acknowledge the potential benefits of modern switch-mode charge controllers like the BQ25630, the TP4056 largely remains the easiest and most accessible choice for simple single-cell Li-ion battery charging in small projects.
In conclusion, while the TP4056 continues to dominate the DIY electronics scene, alternatives like the BQ25185 and BQ25630 offer advantages for those seeking more versatility and customisation in their projects. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and resources of the maker or hacker.
| Feature | TP4056 | BQ25630 and similar switch-mode chargers | |-----------------------------|--------------------------------|------------------------------------------------| | Charging type | Linear | Switch-mode DC-DC convertor | | Efficiency | Low (wastes heat) | Higher (less heat generated) | | Complexity | Low (few external parts) | Higher (needs extra passives, complex design) | | Ease of soldering | Easy, popular module form | Harder, leadless packages common | | Monitoring capabilities | Limited | Integrated ADC for monitoring currents and voltages |
- To further enhance the capabilities of DIY projects, one can consider implementing switch-mode technology like the BQ25630, as it offers a DC-DC converter and an integrated ADC for monitoring currents and voltages.
- For a more customizable charging solution in DIY electronics, the BQ25185 or similar switch-mode charge controllers can be considered, as they provide variable under- and over-charge protection voltages, allowing for tailored configurations according to specific project needs.
