Microchip introduces a new integrated motor driver based on dsPIC DSC

     To enable efficient, real-time embedded motor control systems in space-constrained applications, Microchip Technology is introducing a new family of integrated motor drivers based on dsPIC Digital Signal Controllers (DSC). The family of devices integrates a dsPIC33 digital Signal controller (DSC), a three-phase MOSFET gate driver, and optional LIN or CAN FD transceivers in a single package.

     A significant advantage of this integration is a reduction in the number of components for a motor control system design, a reduction in printed circuit board (PCB) size, and a reduction in complexity. Support resources for this family of devices include Development boards, reference designs, application notes, and Microchip's Field Oriented Control (FOC) software development Suite, motorBench Development Suite V2.45.

     Joe Thomsen, Microchip's vice president of Digital Signal Controllers, said: "Automotive, consumer and industrial design is constantly evolving to demand higher performance and smaller sizes. But improving performance often comes at the expense of higher costs and larger sizes. By integrating multiple device functions into a single chip, dsPIC DSC-based integrated motor drivers can reduce system-level costs and footprint on board space."

     This family of integrated motor drivers can be powered by a single supply up to 29V (operating voltage) and 40V (transient voltage). The internal 3.3V Low Voltage Difference (LDO) regulator powers the dsPIC DSC, so no external LDO is required. Integrated motor drivers based on dsPIC DSC operate at frequencies between 70-100 MHz and have high CPU performance, enabling efficient deployment of FOC and other advanced motor control algorithms.