Quad full bridge motor driver IC offered in two packages

With a 1.6A rating for each of its full-bridge outputs and a maximum load supply of 40V, it has the capacity to simultaneously drive up to 4 DC motors, or alternatively 2 stepper motors.

The IC incorporates fixed off-time pulse-width modulation (PWM) current regulators (based on patented mixed decay mode technology), along with 2-bit non-linear digital-to-analogue converters (DACs).

By utilising these elements, the IC can control stepper motors in full, half and quarter steps as required.

Likewise it can control DC motors in forward, reverse and coast modes.

The proprietary mixed decay mode technology and built-in synchronous rectification control circuitry employed by the PWM current regulators, lead to marked reductions in audible motor noise compared to competing devices.

In addition, the device increases step accuracy and lowers power dissipation - thereby resulting in greater efficiency. As the device only consumes 100µA (typical) while in sleep mode, lower power operation is assured. Special power-up sequencing processes are not required.

“Across a broad spectrum of application areas, we are seeing increasing demand from our clients for assistance in developing more advanced motor control systems,” states Hugh Wratten, Franchise Manager at Solid State Supplies. “There is a need for motor driver ICs with heightened efficiency that draw less power and run while producing minimal noise. In addition, there are growing expectations in terms of functionality too. In many cases, such as CCTV cameras, precise movement in multiple directions might be called for. Here the ability to drive multiple motors from a single chip, combined with increased step accuracy, will prove highly beneficial. Likewise enhancements to step control can lead to better print head positioning, so that finer details can be dealt with.”

Key applications for Allegro A5988 are security equipment, scanners, point of sales (PoS) units and a wide variety of printers (laser, inkjet, label, etc.).

An array of protection mechanisms have been included in this drive to ensure ongoing reliability is maintained. Among these are thermal shutdown, under-voltage lockout (UVLO), over-current and current cross-over protection.

The device supports an operating temperature range of -40°C to 105°C. It is offered in 2 different package formats, both of which have exposed power tabs in order to deliver elevated levels of heat dissipation.

The EV version has a low-profile 36-pin QFN package with a 6mm × 6mm footprint, while the JP version is 48-pin LQFP package covering 7mm × 7mm.