Three-phase sensorless BLDC driver is previewed at PCIM Europe

The three-phase sensorless brushless DC (BLDC) fan driver IC (pictured) incorporates a sinusoidal drive to minimise audible noise and vibration. The company has also scheduled for release the A5932, a three-phase, sensorless BLDC fan controller that is designed to drive external N-channel power MOSFETS. It incorporates 180̊ sinusoidal drive with sensorless commutation to minimise vibration and eliminate the requirement for Hall sensors for server fan applications.

Among the new current sensors, visitors saw the ACS780xLR, a fully integrated linear current sensor IC in a new coreless package designed to sense AC and DC currents up to 100A. The automotive-grade, low-profile (1.5mm thick) sensor IC package has a very small footprint, says the company. The Hall sensor technology also incorporates common-mode field rejection to optimise performance in the presence of interfering magnetic fields generated by nearby current-carrying conductors.

The latest position sensor, the APS13568 was also highlighted. The IC acts as a magnetically actuated light switch by combining a sensitive, omnipolar, micropower Hall-effect sensor switch with a linear programmable current regulator providing up to 150mA to drive high brightness LEDs. The omnipolar Hall-effect switch provides contactless control of the regulated LED current, which is set by a single reference resistor.

Another new IC is the ATS605LSG, a single IC for rotational position sensing applications, with a ferrous gear target. The SG package incorporates a rare earth pellet for ease of manufacturing, consistent performance over temperature, and enhanced reliability, says the company. Three Hall elements create two independent, differential channels. These channels are processed by the IC’s digital circuit designed to eliminate the detrimental effects of magnet and system offsets. Hall differential signals are used to produce a highly accurate speed output and, if desired, provide information on the direction of rotation. This device is optimised for applications requiring dual-phase gear speed and position signal information or simultaneous high-resolution gear speed and direction information.

Other new products include the ALS31000, a uni-directional linear Hall-effect sensor IC with an analogue output in a miniature low-profile surface-mount package and the A4450 buck-boost controller with integrated buck MOSFET.
At the stand, there are live demonstrations of applications for the latest products including current sensors, a joystick based on an angle sensor, and a motor driver.