Hrm, this could be fun. Linear Technologies just released a Supercap Backup Controller and Monitor. In layman’s terms: use up to four supercaps to provide you with a brief supply of power should you lose main power to your devices. It can also be designed for use with LiFePo4 batteries. More info here: http://www.linear.com/product/LTC3350 - check out page 39 in the datasheet, bottom design.
This: “Application Circuit 3. 11V to 20V, 5.3A LiFePO4 Battery Charger with 4.6A Input Current Limit and 12V, 48W Backup Mode”?
So for the not-yet-caffeinated: you’re pointing out that this can be used as a charge controller to charge 12v LiFe batteries, presumably to power a 12v LED rig?
Yes to both. It’s primary function is to act as a power backup when your rig loses main power, albeit briefly. It’s the nature of supercaps, they can provide a large umph for a short amount of time. However, by using LiFePo4 batteries, you can extend that backup time. The design will still function as a backup power unit and only power on when it detects the main supply going down. And, as a bonus, it will also recharge those batteries when power is restored.
I wonder if something like this can also be used to provide extra current support for briefly doing a very very high power draw (e.g. flashing all white for strobing effects…)
Unsure. The way the typical application is setup, it only “comes on” when main power drops below a certain threshold. Sooo, yeah, I don’t know.
Someone is stalking me on electronics StackExchange: http://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/111790/understanding-capacitors/111795#111795