To cater to the demands of space-constrained applications requiring efficient real-time embedded motor control systems, Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) has unveiled a new family of dsPIC® Digital Signal Controller (DSC)-based integrated motor drivers. These innovative devices combine a dsPIC33 digital signal controller (DSC), a three-phase MOSFET gate driver, and an optional LIN or CAN FD transceiver into a single package. The integration of these components brings about a notable reduction in the component count of motor control system designs, leading to smaller PCB dimensions and decreased complexity. Moreover, the devices are complemented by development boards, reference designs, application notes, and Microchip’s field-oriented control (FOC) software development suite, motorBench® Development Suite V2.45.
Streamlining Motor Control Solutions
“Automotive, consumer and industrial designs are evolving and require higher performance and reduced footprints. These expectations often come at a higher expense and increase in dimensional size,” said Joe Thomsen, vice president of Microchip’s digital signal controllers business unit. “By integrating multiple device functions into one chip, the dsPIC DSC-based integrated motor drivers can reduce system-level costs and board space.”
Key Features and Development Tools
The dsPIC DSC-based integrated motor drivers are designed to operate with a single power supply of up to 29V (operation) and 40V (transient). Featuring an internal 3.3V low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator to power the dsPIC DSC, these devices eliminate the need for an external LDO. Operating between 70—100 MHz, they deliver high CPU performance, facilitating efficient deployment of FOC and other advanced motor control algorithms. Microchip offers an extensive ecosystem of motor control software and hardware development tools, including development boards like the dsPIC33CK Motor Control Starter Kit (MCSK) and the MCLV-48V-300W, along with the motorBench Development Suite for FOC software development.
Enhanced Design Efficiency and Time-to-Market
With the introduction of features like zero-speed/maximum torque (ZS/MT) in the latest version of the motorBench Development Suite, designers can eliminate Hall or magnetic sensors while maximizing torque output, benefiting applications such as pumps, power tools, and e-Mobility. Additionally, integrating dsPIC DSC-based MATLAB Simulink models in MPLAB Discover and free device blocks for Simulink simplifies code generation and optimization for various motor control algorithms. Microchip also offers a growing array of dsPIC DSC-based motor control reference designs, including those for automotive cooling fans, low-voltage ceiling fans, and drone propeller controllers, speeding up time to market with production-ready solutions for different motor control applications.
Pricing and Availability
For those interested in purchasing or seeking additional information, Microchip encourages contacting a Microchip sales representative, or authorized worldwide distributor, or visiting the company’s Purchasing and Client Services website at www.microchipdirect.com.
Also read – Sony Alpha 9 III camera unveiled
Join our WhatsApp News Channel for quick updates – FYI9 News WhatsApp Channel