Basic functions and importance of battery management system (BMS)

May 28, 2025

Basic functions and importance of battery management system (BMS)


Against the background of the rapid development of the current markets such as electric vehicles, energy storage systems, power tools, and electric bicycles, battery management systems (BMSs) have become the core component that determines product safety and performance. This article will introduce the main functions of BMS in detail and analyze its key role in the industry to help you gain insight into the value of smart BMS.



 1. Core function analysis


1. Voltage monitoring and protection


    Monitor the voltage of each single cell in real time to prevent overcharge and overdischarge.
    When the battery voltage exceeds the set threshold, the BMS immediately issues a fast charging protection command to ensure safety.


2. Cell Balancing includes active and passive balancing functions


    Through passive or active balance algorithms, the battery balance between single cells is achieved and the life of the battery pack is extended.
    In lithium-ion battery packs, balance errors can lead to capacity loss, and smart BMS can effectively suppress this attenuation.


3. Temperature monitoring and thermal management


    Multi-point temperature sensing, monitoring battery cells and ambient temperature.
    When the temperature is close to the limit, perform derating or enable the cooling system to ensure the system is safe.


4. SOC and SOH estimation


    Algorithms such as Coulomb metering and electrochemical models are used to accurately estimate the residual electricity (SOC) and health status (SOH).
    SOC and SOH data display can be transmitted to the upper computer through the **CAN communication** or **UART** interface to realize remote monitoring.


5. Security protection policy


    Including multiple hardware and software protection such as overcurrent, short circuit, overtemperature, and undertemperature.
    In the event of a failure, the BMS quickly isolates or cuts off the circuit to avoid the accident from amplifying.


6. Data logging and troubleshooting


    Record key parameters (voltage, current, temperature, equilibrium status, etc.) for a long time to form a complete log.
    Automatically generate alarms and fault reports, supporting on-site maintenance and online upgrades.



 2. The importance of BMS in the industry


1. Improve product safety


   Lithium batteries have high energy density and flammability, and the lack of a reliable battery management system will greatly increase the risk of thermal runaway. Smart BMS is the first line of defense for security monitoring.


2. Extend battery life


   Accurate SOC/SOH estimation and battery balancing function avoid excessive circulating damage to single cells and maximize the manufacturer's nominal cycle life.


3. Optimize the charging and discharging experience


   Fast charging has become an industry trend. Only by being equipped with advanced BMS can we achieve a balance between charging rate and battery life while ensuring safety.


4. Help intelligent upgrades


   Through communication protocols such as CAN bus and Modbus, BMS seamlessly connects with vehicle controllers and energy management systems (EMS) to jointly build a smart energy ecosystem.


5. Meet regulations and standards


   Currently, the market has increasingly high requirements for safety certification such as UL, CE, IEC, etc., and BMS solutions that comply with international standards must be equipped to ensure that products are listed on the shelves in compliance.



 3. Search industry keywords to learn more


 Battery Management System (BMS)
 Smart BMS
 SOC/SOH estimation
* Battery balance
* Fast charge protection
* CAN communication
* Energy storage system
* Electric cars
* Security monitoring
* Lithium battery protection board



 4. Conclusion


Choosing a high-performance, compliant and safe BMS can not only improve the operating efficiency of electric vehicles and energy storage systems, but also win market reputation and user trust for enterprises. Welcome to contact us to discuss the future development of smart BMS!