AMI Semiconductor has introduced two single-chip stepper motor driver and controller ICs, each offering sensorless stall detection. Target applications include headlamp leveling and swiveling and automotive HVAC designs.
The AMIS-30623 and AMIS-30624 are designed for remote and multiple axes positioning applications and offer LIN and serial (I2C) interface connectivity respectively. The sensorless stall detection feature allows designers to implement silent position calibration and semi-closed loop operation when approaching mechanical end stops. A motion qualification mode helps designers select motion parameters such as torque and acceleration-deceleration profile, thus eliminating noise and vibration at end-stops and improving motion control accuracy and reliability without the need for optical encoders, position sensors or software algorithms.
The AMIS-30623 targets mechatronics solutions that are connected remotely to a LIN master. The AMIS-30624 is suited for applications in which the motor controller IC is a peripheral device located next to a host microcontroller on a single PCB. Both operate at temperatures from –40 °C to 125 °C and can deliver programmable peak currents of up to 800 mA. An on-chip position controller is configurable for different motor types, positioning ranges and parameters such as speed, acceleration and deceleration. Each device also incorporates a hold current feature.
The devices are based on AMI Semiconductor's mixed-signal semiconductor processes and are available in SOIC-20 or NQFP-32 packaging.