Microcontroller with Built-in Pre-driver for Motor Control

Toshiba Corporation today announced the launch of the new TMPM37AFSQG microcontroller as the latest addition to its ARM® Cortex®-M3-based "TX03 series". The new IC is claimed to be the world’s smallest vector control microcontroller to incorporate an original coprocessor, the "Vector Engine Plus," and a pre-driver to implement brushless dc motor control. Sample shipments will start in the middle of January 2016. Applications are expected to include: small motors, server fans, small cooling fans, vent fans, electric fans, ceiling fans, pumps and toys.

The TMPM37AFSQG contains a pre-driver that directly drives the MOSFET in small applications, including small fan motors. A single-power supply is also feasible since the power of the microcontroller is internally supplied from the power of the pre-driver. Furthermore, peripheral parts, such as an Op-Amp essential for current detection using shunt resistors and a comparator for over-current detection, have been incorporated in a small package (QFN32 5 x 5 mm), minimizing the mounting space.

The new IC can perform highly efficient vector control, realizing low vibration, low noise motor control. The TMPM37AFSQG greatly improves motor performance in user applications. Key features include: Easily implements vector control drive and minimizes the mount space; ARM Cortex-M3 core, up to 40 MHz operation; Complementary PWM, minimum unit 25ns; Coprocessor: Vector Engine Plus (VE+); Single-power supply; Built-in pre-driver for direct drive of MOSFET for three-phase PWM output; 12-bit AD converter, Op-amp, and over-current detection circuit; and VQFN32 (5 mm x 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) package.