ST offering energy harvesting IC with multiple functions

STMicroelectronics has launched a energy-harvesting IC to power electronic circuits and recharge batteries using either a solar cell or Thermo-Electric Generator (TEG). SPV1050 harvests ambient light or thermal energy to power small electronic devices such as wireless sensors, smart-building and industrial equipment controls, wellness and wearable monitors and any such mobile and outdoor devices featuring support for Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. ST claims SPV1050 offers more functions than competing devices, which aids miniaturization and saves bill-of-materials costs. Both 1.8V and 3.3V regulators are available to power a companion microcontroller or wireless transmitter directly without requiring additional components. Maximum Power-Point Tracking (MPPT) continuously optimizes energy harvesting, or can be disabled. The battery-charging circuitry supports a wide variety of battery types including lithium-ion and lithium-polymer, lithium thin-film solid state, NiMH and NiCd, as well as supercapacitors. “Energy harvesting delivers environmental benefits and helps reduce equipment ownership costs, and is used increasingly as energy-conversion efficiency rises and typical system power demands fall,” said Matteo Lo Presti, Group Vice President and General Manager, Industrial and Power Conversion Division, STMicroelectronics. “The tremendous operational and ener...