Family of code-free FOC sensorless BLDC fan drivers launched

29th January 2019

Anna Flockett

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Allegro MicroSystems Europe has announced the launch of the company’s QuietMotion family. This family consists of the first-to-market Field Oriented Control (FOC) brushless DC (BLDC) electric motor controllers that are customer code-free. The devices are designed to provide reliable and efficient low audible noise performance while reducing design cycle time.

Whereas most FOC BLDC drivers require software developers to code the algorithm in a microprocessor, QuietMotion devices integrate Allegro’s innovative FOC algorithms. These advanced algorithms allow for smooth, quiet motion while eliminating the need to write software. This significantly lowers R&D expenses and reduces time to market. With only five external components, these devices also minimise bill of materials (BOM) cost, improve reliability and reduce design complexity. The result is a quiet, easy to implement, and efficient outcome.

“This is the way of the future for motor drivers,” explained Vijay Mangtani, Vice President of Allegro’s Power IC Business Unit. “Our QuietMotion devices are incredibly efficient and easy to use. Flexible user interface and development boards allow customers to tune and evaluate various motors effortlessly, reduce development time and implement product designs with very few external components.”

The first code-free devices
The first member of Allegro’s QuietMotion family is the AMT49406, which is an ideal solution for applications that demand high efficiency and low acoustic noise- such as pole and ceiling fans, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air purifiers and exhaust fans. With its embedded proprietary windowless sinusoidal algorithm and soft-on-soft-start algorithms, the AMT49406 provides reliable, industry-leading audible noise performance.

The A89301 is also part of the QuietMotion family. This device offers ultra-quiet operation, as well as additional flexibility and programmable features for premium appliances, such as high end appliance fans, high end ceiling fans and air purifiers. The A89301 is specifically targeted at systems with low speed requirements.

“We’re passionate about innovation,” explained Mangtani. “We are continuously working to develop intelligent solutions that give our customers a competitive edge, and we’re excited to bring this new QuietMotion family to market.”

The AMT49406 and the A89301 have a 5.5 to 50 input voltage rating with an operating range of -40° to 105°C. They are available in a 24-contact 4x4 mm QFN with exposed thermal pad (suffix ES), and a 24-lead TSSOP with exposed thermal pad (suffix LP). These packages are lead (Pb) free, with 100% matt-tin leadframe plating.