Nuvoton launches new battery chip for enhanced monitoring capabilities

Nuvoton Technology Corporation Japan (NTCJ) announced on September 29 that it will begin sample shipments of its new KA85010UA battery monitoring integrated circuit (IC) in January 2027. This IC is designed to manage up to 26 battery cells and incorporates electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurement technology.

The new IC enables continuous monitoring and analysis of a battery's internal state without requiring separate measurement equipment. EIS is a technique that can assess battery health, predict lifespan, and detect anomalies early, which is crucial for safety in applications like electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Nuvoton's proprietary method for EIS measurement, which utilizes an inductor instead of a resistor, reportedly reduces printed circuit board temperature rise by approximately 93% compared to conventional methods. This reduction in heat and power loss facilitates the integration of EIS functionality into battery systems and ensures more stable data acquisition during operation.

The company is also providing EIS analysis algorithms and comprehensive support to help customers implement measurement environments and integrate diagnostic features. This assistance aims to shorten development cycles for customers, especially those new to EIS technology.