When choosing a battery charger IC, start with the battery chemistry and pack configuration. Li-ion and LiFePO4 cells need different float voltages, so confirm the charge voltage accuracy (ideally within 1%), the number of series cells, and the maximum charge current your design needs.

Next, match the input source and power path. Check the input voltage range and its absolute maximum rating, and decide between a linear and a switching topology: linear chargers are simple and quiet but dissipate heat, while switching chargers stay efficient at higher currents. You can compare options in the ChipApex battery chargers category, filtering by input voltage, charge current and package.

Finally, think about package and thermal limits. A small QFN or DFN saves board space but needs a good exposed-pad copper layout, so look at the thermal resistance and the thermal regulation feature that reduces current as the die heats up. Also check protection features such as over-voltage, over-temperature, a safety timer and NTC support before you finalise the part.