Renesas' smart power meter solution is integrated with 4G communication and an electrical double layer capacitor (EDLC) that achieves a smart control and always-on system. The ISL85403 buck-boost regulator achieves self-cycling EDLC backup and could theoretically discharge the EDLC voltage as low as 0.1 V. This greatly improves the EDLC’s efficiency and reduces the system cost. Additionally, the RL78/L13 microcontroller (MCU) is ideal for measurement devices and power meters with ultra-low power and a built-in segment LCD driver.

The EDLC is a supercapacitor with features such as short charging time, high power density, long lifecycles, good temperature performance, and environmental protection. EDLCs can be used to replace traditional batteries (with defects such as electrolyte leakage) as a backup power supply. The EDLC’s power can be used for data backup, wireless communication, and other functions, when the power is turned off for a few minutes.