Allegro releases three-phase gate drivers for electric and hybrid vehicles

     Allegro MicroSystems (Allegro), a global leader in sensing technology and power semiconductor solutions for motion control and energy efficiency systems, has announced the expansion of its QuietMotion product line and the launch of its new A89307 automotive grade gate driver IC. Designed for battery cooling fans and HVAC systems in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles, the IC features ultra-low noise and vibration by using field directed control (FOC) algorithms to deliver continuous sine wave drive currents to loads, helping automakers reduce vehicle noise and extend battery life. At the same time, each charge can provide a longer range, reducing the carbon emissions of the vehicle.

     "Through continuous design optimization, electric and hybrid vehicles are quieter than traditional internal combustion engines, especially when stopped, and drivers are increasingly sensitive to noise generated by components such as cooling fans," said Steve Lutz, Allegro's Director of motor drive product line. The A89307's hardware-based algorithm allows designers to more easily reduce fan noise while improving cooling performance and increasing the range per charge. It's good for the car user and good for the environment."

     The A89307 integrates a hardware -based algorithm and does not require external sensors or software development. Users only need to use simple graphical user interface (GUI) to select parameters and load them to E2EPROM on IC. A89307 uses only five external components. By reducing the material list and constructing a PCB system in the motor that occupies a very small space, it can help designers reduce the cost of material. The fully integrated algorithm can no longer need a separate microprocessor.

     The operating mode of the A89307 includes the opening of PWM or a complete programmable closed -loop speed control. In the closed -loop mode, customers can program the relationship between PWM and speed to match the PWM instructions provided by the external ECU. A89307 also includes the Field Weakening function to improve the performance under high -speed operation. Windmilling Start-up is also some functions contained in the A89307 based on the hardware digital algorithm.

     Although the A89307 is designed for various electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles battery cooling fans, it can also be used for the liquid pump in the HVAC system drums and the cooler of the traction inverter. The external gate driver of the A89307 makes the device have sufficient high flexibility and can drive a variety of motor power of up to 500W.