The nPM1304 EK has a controllable active load that can be configured with the nPM PowerUP app. It supports dynamic evaluation of the Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC) with a load current up to 99 mA depending on the power supply configuration. The active load supports also battery profiling for fuel gauging in the nPM PowerUP app.
Use slide switch SW5 to select the input to the controllable active load as shown in the following table.
| Slide switch position (SW5) | Description |
|---|---|
| VSYS | Controllable system load or battery profiling mode. |
| OFF | Active load is disconnected from PMIC. |
| LS | Controllable BUCK load through PMIC load switch output LSOUT1 or LSOUT2. |
To connect the nPM1304 VSYS voltage pin to the active load input, move switch SW5 to the VSYS position. This mode supports a load up to 99 mA and is also used for battery profiling and fuel gauging in nPM PowerUP.
To connect the nPM1304 load switch output LSOUT1 or LSOUT2 to the active load input, move switch SW5 to the LS position. Use the jumpers on P20 to select LSOUT1 or LSOUT2 and the jumpers on P15 to select the load switch input LSIN1 or LSIN2. Detailed connection instructions are printed on the back side of the EK. For more information, see Load switch configuration.
If the position of SW5 is changed during operation, the active load automatically turns off.
To disconnect the active load from nPM1304 and minimize current leakage, move switch SW5 to the OFF position.
The EK has two LEDs that show the status of the active load. A green LED (LD6) indicates that the active load is on. The brightness of the LED changes with the current level. A red LED (LD5) indicates an overheated load circuit. The load circuit powers down to ensure safe operation. Once it cools down, LD5 turns off and the active load can be re-enabled.