All-solid-state batteries | Applications and collaborations case studies
| Solving issues of the real-time clock (RTC) module for industrial use | ||
| All-solid-state batteries operating in a wide temperature range can contribute as a backup power for RTCs under harsh conditions. |
Background
RTC (real-time clock) is an IC part with a clock function that is embedded in a device. Even if the system power supply is turned off, it continues to keep the time information with backup power supply. Currently, coin-type primary batteries and electric double-layer capacitors are mainly used for the backup power supply; however, highly reliable batteries that can be used even under harsh temperature conditions are required in recent years due to the increase in surface-mounted RTCs and diversification of use applications.
For industrial equipment, RTCs are used for IT equipment, network equipment, various infrastructure meters, FA equipment, PLCs (sequencers), security equipment, entrance and exit control, POS systems, wearable devices, medical equipment, etc.
Image of a coin-type battery mounted on a board using a holder
Issues
(1) Space saving, reduction of manufacturing processes
(2) Expanded operating environment temperature
As the need for miniaturization of IoT devices increases, further space saving, reduction of manufacturing processes by introducing surface-mounting technology, and reduction of mounting costs are required.
Currently, RTCs are used for a wide range of industrial applications. Accordingly, the operating temperature is extended to −40 to +125 deg. C, requiring highly accurate time information acquisitions even under such harsh temperature environment.
Solution
Space saving, reduction of manufacturing processes
Maxell’s PSB401010H all-solid-state battery uses a ceramic package for the casing, which enables surface mounting∗1, and can be placed in a reflow furnace with other SMDs (surface-mounted devices), eliminating the need for a separate process for battery connection. In addition, a battery holder is not required on the board, so it saves space and reduces the manufacturing processes.
Expanded operating environment temperature range
With its safety∗2 and temperature characteristics, PSB401010H has a wide discharge temperature range of −50 to 125 deg. C, covering the usable environmental temperature of RTCs, and can be applied as a backup power supply for RTCs under harsh temperature environments.
In addition, the long-life characteristic∗3 of PSB401010H eliminates the need to replace batteries every few years, as is the case with primary batteries, thereby reducing maintenance man-hours.
- Surface mounting: Deterioration is not seen in basic characteristics such as capacity and load characteristics due to reflow at a maximum temperature of +245 deg. C.
- Safety: No ignition or smoke generation is seen in various safety tests such as overheating test, nail penetration test, and external short circuit test. It shows high safety with a heat generation temperature of +1 deg. C or less.
- Long-life characteristic: The predicted lifespan calculated from the acceleration factor is at the 20-year level. The life is long compared to 5 years of life of general electronic components (for example, insulation parts).
Other applications
