STMicroelectronics introduces phase current single Shunt detection motor control chip

     The STSPIN32 programmable motor controller/Driver family adds a cost-effective phase current single Shunt detection motor control chip, the STSPIN32F0B SiP (System Level Package). This ideal all-in-one new motor controller meets the growing demand for battery-powered tools.

     By integrating a current detection op amp, the STSPIN32F0B saves three separate coil current detection resistors in three-phase BLDC motor control, providing more I/O ports for user functions. The new drive includes a 48MHz STM32F031x6 * microcontroller (MCU) capable of running 6-step motor control algorithms as well as application-level functions.

     The STSPIN32F0B has 20 GPIO pins for easy access to the MCU's internal features, including up to five universal timers, a 12-bit ADC, and a temperature sensor. The MCU also provides users with I2C, UART, and SPI ports.

     The STSPIN32F0B SiP contains a three-channel half-bridge gate driver capable of outputting up to 600mA per channel for the external MOSFET to power the motor. In addition, the new product integrates a 3.3V DC/DC buck converter and a 12V low voltage difference (LDO) regulator to power the MCU, gate drivers and external components, further reducing bill of material costs and improving overall system energy efficiency.

     Other integrated features include bootstrap diodes, which provide a safe and reliable starting voltage for switching power supplies, and protection mechanisms that ensure stable motor operation in harsh industrial applications. Protection features include real-time programmable overcurrent protection, cross conduction/through protection, undervoltage lock (UVLO) to protect all power supplies, and overheat protection.

     To simplify the design and development of STSPIN32-based applications, ST offers developers a complete set of hardware, software and firmware tools, including a series of out-of-the-box 6-step motor control algorithms for sensorless or sensorless BLDC motor control. In addition, users are allowed to enter the STM32 Bootloader mode to facilitate over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates, improve the flexibility of system upgrades, and reduce the total cost of ownership.

     The STSPIN32F0B extends the power supply voltage range to between 45V and 6.7V and is suitable for a wide range of products, including portable devices powered by two lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries. To save power when the motor is idle, standby mode maximizes battery life by shutting down all circuits except the DC-DC converter that powers the MCU.