New GaN IC Platform from ST Enhances Motion Control Efficiency
GaN Technology Expands into Motor Drives
STMicroelectronics has introduced a new smart power component platform based on gallium nitride (GaN). This technology, already popular in high-efficiency adapters, is now optimized for motion control. It enables significant energy savings and performance gains in home appliances and industrial drives.
Boosting Efficiency for Appliances and Industrial Systems
The platform directly targets motor drive applications. It powers devices like washing machines, power tools, and factory servo drives. The first products, GANSPIN611 and GANSPIN612, handle motors up to 400W. They are suitable for compressors, pumps, and fans. Pin compatibility between the two allows for easy design scaling.
Key Features for Reliable, Compact Designs
Unlike standard drivers, this system-in-package controls switching dynamics precisely. It manages turn-on/off times to reduce stress on motor windings. This also minimizes electromagnetic noise. A configurable slew rate simplifies compliance with strict EMC regulations like the EU directive.
Delivering Size and Cost Reductions
The GaN transistors feature very low RDS(on) values. This minimizes power loss and heat generation. Consequently, many applications can eliminate the heatsink. This change reduces material costs and board space by up to 60%. The GANSPIN611 is currently available in a thermally enhanced QFN package.
Author's Insight: A Strategic Shift for Power Design
ST's move signifies GaN's maturation beyond fast charging into core motor control. By integrating the driver and half-bridge with robust protection features, they are reducing a major barrier to adoption: design complexity. For engineers, this means faster time-to-market for products needing higher efficiency and power density. The industry trend is clear; silicon-based solutions are increasingly facing competition from wide-bandgap semiconductors like GaN in performance-critical segments.
Built-in Protection and System Robustness
The ICs include comprehensive safeguards for reliable operation. Integrated features include fault sensing, undervoltage lockout, and overcurrent protection. They also offer overvoltage and thermal shutdown. A wide supply voltage range up to 20V ensures robust performance. This makes upgrading traditional power stages more straightforward.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main advantage of using GaN for motor drives?
A1: GaN enables higher switching frequencies with lower losses than traditional silicon. This results in greater energy efficiency, reduced heat, and the potential for smaller, lighter motor drive systems.
Q2: What types of motors can these new ICs drive?
A2: They are designed to drive 3-phase Brushless DC (BLDC) motors commonly used in appliances, power tools, pumps, fans, and industrial servo drives.
Q3: How does this help with EMC compliance?
A3: The ICs allow designers to adjust the voltage slew rate (dV/dt). Precise control over switching edges helps minimize electromagnetic interference, making it easier to meet regulatory standards.
Q4: Why is the elimination of a heatsink important?
A4: Removing the heatsink reduces the total bill of materials (BOM) cost, decreases product weight and size, and simplifies the mechanical design and assembly process.
Q5: Are these products available now?
A5: Yes, the GANSPIN611 is in production. The GANSPIN612 is part of the same family, offering pin-compatible scalability for different power requirements.
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