ST introduces high power density smart motor drivers for future industrial automation applications

     STMicroelectronics introduces the new powerSTEP motor driver, a sophisticated motor control design that enables applications to perform high-power work directly on the chip. This fully integrated stepper motor driver System Package (SiP) offers the industry's highest power density of up to 500W/cm2 and will assist automation equipment manufacturers in designing cost-effective motor control systems. Improve performance and reliability without sacrificing flexibility or durability.

     PowerSTEP is a complete 14mm x 11mm system package that integrates the control circuits and all power levels required for motor drive, and requires very few external components to start the application design. With the highest level of integration in its class, the new product is the first for high-power applications up to 85V and 10A, significantly expanding the power range of industrial motor control chips to include applications such as automatic machine tools, industrial sewing machines, stage lighting, security systems and home automation.

     The internal power stage consists of eight low-resistance (RDS(ON)) MOSFETs of only 16 Mω to maximize energy efficiency while reducing heat dissipation, thereby simplifying the thermal management system. The internal control chip also includes an intelligent motion control engine that performs microcontroller computing tasks in the original main system, providing engineers with greater freedom in choosing a microcontroller and helping to simplify software and firmware design.

     Users benefit from the flexibility of ST's patented voltage-controlled technology, which ensures smoother motor movement, quieter and more precise positioning. Advanced current control methods, including predictive control and adaptive decay algorithm, are also available when necessary. The resolution of up to 128 microsteps per step is comparable to the best stepper motor controllers available today.

     The motor driver can be directly connected to the main microcontroller through the industry standard SPI interface, facilitating motor driver programming, current detection management, and sensorless stall detection. Because a minimal number of external components are required, powerSTEP saves up to 50% of printed board space compared to designs using discrete control chips and power stages. With comprehensive internal protection features, powerSTEP can be considered an extremely robust and reliable solution.