MCP73863-I/ML Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MCP73863-I/ML is a lithium ion/polymer battery charger IC manufactured by Microchip Technology, designed for single-cell battery management applications. This component operates as a constant-current/constant-voltage charger with programmable charging parameters and integrated timer functionality. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing design support and production continuity. Equivalent parts must maintain functional compatibility across battery chemistry, cell count, charging methodology, and thermal operating range to ensure reliable system performance.

Substiute Parts

MCP73863-I/ML

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 1285MCP73863-I/ML Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MCP73833-FCI/MF

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 4025MCP73833-FCI/MF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the MCP73863-I/ML is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Battery Chemistry & Cell Configuration: Substitute parts must support single-cell lithium ion/polymer battery charging at 4.2V nominal voltage
• Charging Methodology: Constant-current/constant-voltage charging capability is required
• Maximum Charging Current: Substitute parts must support the application's required charging current profile; the MCP73863-I/ML supports up to 1.38A
• Supply Voltage Range: The substitute must operate within the system's available input voltage; the MCP73863-I/ML accepts up to 12V
• Operating Temperature Range: The substitute must function across -40°C to 85°C to maintain system reliability
• Package Compatibility: Surface-mount packages with exposed pad construction are required for thermal management
• Regulatory Compliance: RoHS3 compliance and MSL rating must be maintained

The MCP73833-FCI/MF qualifies as a manufacturer-recommended substitute based on these parameters, though specific application constraints must be evaluated.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MCP73833-FCI/MF is designated as the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete MCP73863-I/ML. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and unlimited moisture sensitivity rating, ensuring regulatory and environmental compatibility.

Key considerations for selection:

• Supply Voltage Constraint: The MCP73833-FCI/MF operates with a maximum supply voltage of 6V, compared to 12V for the original part. Applications requiring input voltages above 6V cannot use this substitute without additional voltage regulation circuitry.

• Charging Current Capacity: The substitute supports a maximum charging current of 1.1A versus 1.38A for the original. Applications requiring charging currents above 1.1A must implement external current limiting or select alternative components.

• Package Footprint: The MCP73833-FCI/MF uses a 10-pin DFN package (3x3mm) versus the 16-pin QFN package (4x4mm) of the original. PCB layout redesign is required; the smaller package may improve thermal characteristics in space-constrained applications.

• Active Product Status: The MCP73833-FCI/MF is actively manufactured, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MCP73833-FCI/MF directly replace the MCP73863-I/ML without PCB modifications?

A: No. The MCP73833-FCI/MF uses a different package (10-DFN versus 16-VQFN) and has different pin assignments. PCB layout redesign is required. Additionally, the reduced supply voltage maximum (6V versus 12V) and lower maximum charging current (1.1A versus 1.38A) must be verified against system requirements before substitution.

Q: What is the impact of the lower maximum supply voltage on the MCP73833-FCI/MF?

A: The MCP73833-FCI/MF accepts input voltages up to 6V maximum. If your application requires input voltages above 6V, you must implement a voltage regulator or buck converter to step down the supply voltage before the charger IC. Failure to do so will damage the component.

Q: Are there pin-to-pin compatibility considerations between these parts?

A: No. The MCP73863-I/ML has 16 pins in a QFN package, while the MCP73833-FCI/MF has 10 pins in a DFN package. Pin assignments differ significantly. Complete schematic and PCB redesign is necessary.

Q: Does the lower maximum charging current of the MCP73833-FCI/MF affect battery charging performance?

A: The MCP73833-FCI/MF supports programmable constant-current charging up to 1.1A. If your application requires charging currents above 1.1A, this substitute cannot be used. Verify your required charging current against the 1.1A maximum before proceeding with substitution.

Q: Are both parts compliant with current environmental and regulatory standards?

A: Yes. Both the MCP73863-I/ML and MCP73833-FCI/MF are ROHS3 compliant with MSL rating 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity). Both are REACH unaffected and classified under ECCN EAR99.

Q: Why is the MCP73863-I/ML obsolete if the MCP73833-FCI/MF is available?

A: The MCP73863-I/ML has been discontinued by Microchip Technology. The MCP73833-FCI/MF represents the active product line for single-cell lithium ion/polymer charging applications. For new designs or production continuation of legacy systems, the MCP73833-FCI/MF is the recommended path forward, subject to the electrical and package constraints outlined in this document.