PowerSmart Inc. (Shelton, CT) introduced the new PS3000 family of programmable fuel gauge modules designed to enhance the reliability and runtime of smart lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride packs by providing more accurate battery data than conventional fuel gauge monitoring circuits. The new modules are fully SBS compliant and contain all SBS functionality on a single printed circuit board for simple integration into battery packs containing two to four li-ion cells or six to 10 NiMH or NiCd cells. The modules combine the PowerSmart P3 smart battery IC, a serial EEPROM, and all necessary supporting components for a turnkey smart battery solution. The PS3000 performs precise measurements of discharge and charge current, voltage and temperature and accurately calculates remaining capacity to within 1 percent. Critical information about the battery's state of charge and health are communicated to the host device via an SMBus/12C interface. The module can be preprogrammed for use with either NiMH or various li-ion cell chemistries. With PowerSmart supplied software, the modules and control parameters can be completely customized to user specifications. The modules are small printed circuit boards measuring 8.5mm x 64 mm and can be integrated into battery packs using just four external cell string connections. In li-ion applications, they can be used with either high-side or low-side safety electronics mounted on a separate board as specified by cell manufacturers. PowerSmart's fuel gauge modules are supplied with or without a switch, LED display and 5-pin, self-cleaning advanced battery connector. Fuel gauge circuits, with integrated safety electronics, are also available for use in Li-ion batteries. Pricing is under $10 in OEM quantities.