Vibration-Motor Driver Touts Best-In-Class Efficiency

Providing discrete notification of incoming calls or scheduled events to cell phone users, the MLX90283 vibration-motor driver IC is said to add unique capabilities in packaging and power efficiency. The chip, a single-phase brushless motor driver, promises longer battery life while delivering strong vibrations. It also suits applications for force feedback or haptic interfaces in gaming systems. The chip integrates a Hall-effect sensor with digital and power driver circuitry into a low profile QFN package and employs a proprietary active-start design to improve start-up reliability. Supply voltage ranges from 1.8V to 3.6V. Other features include a freewheel principle that reduces average motor current consumption by as much as 10 mA while keeping the same rotation speed. Available in a CSP measuring 1.5 mm x 2 mm with a maximum thickness of 0.43 mm, price for the MLX90283 (part number MLX90283ELD) is $0.325 each/5,000. MELEXIS USA, Concord, NH. (603) 223-2362.