Allegro Micro Announces New 8A H-Bridge Motor Driver
Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announced a new 8A H-bridge dc brush motor driver integrated circuit. The dual interface that controls the H-bridge output simplifies the communication between the integrated circuit and the controller circuit. Combining low-power CMOS-compatible logic with high-current, high-voltage power MOSFET outputs, Allegro’s STA6940M provides complete control and drive for brush dc motor applications. It provides internal fixed off time, pulse-width modulation (PWM) control of the output current and is rated at a normal operating level of 4A. This new device is targeted at the office automation and industrial markets.
The CMOS logic section provides four modes of operation: forward and reverse normal drive rotation, outputs-off free spin (coast), and electronic braking. The multi-chip internal structure separates the main logic IC (MIC) from the four N-channel power MOSFETs resulting in lower thermal resistance and greater efficiency.
PWM control allows constant-current control of the output while reducing heat generation and power losses by providing fixed off-time dual decay modes. The internal charge pump ensures full power availability for switching.
The device is available in a small, ZIP type 18-pin fully-molded package which allows for additional simple heat-sinking consuming limited PCB board space. It is priced at $3.60 in quantities of 1,000 and has an 8-week typical lead-time to market.
