New driver reduces design complexity and PCB area compared to discrete solutions

Allegro MicroSystems has a new motor driver IC designed for PWM control of DC motors. Their A5950 is capable of peak output currents up to ±3A and operating voltages up to 40V. This new device is targeted at the automotive market with end applications to include heads-up-display, shift drive, door closure and engine thermal management applications. It is also targeted at the commercial market to drive brush DC motors for ATM cash dispensers, robotic vacuums, printers, copiers and ticketing and vending applications. Input terminals are provided for use in controlling the speed, direction and torque of a DC motor with externally applied PWM control signals. Internal synchronous rectification control circuitry is provided to lower power dissipation during PWM operation and low current standby mode is included to improve efficiency. Internal circuit protection includes overcurrent protection, motor lead short to ground or supply, thermal shutdown with hysteresis, undervoltage monitoring of VBB, and crossover-current protection. Diagnostic features include an analogue output that can be used to monitor the current through the external sense resistor and an open drain FAULTn output.