Stepper Motor Evaluation Kit Demonstrates Integrated Stall Detection for Robust Motion Control without Sensors or Software
POCATELLO, Idaho--Nov. 9, 2004--| Evaluation Kit with LIN and I2C Connectivity Simplifies Development of Automotive and Industrial Motion Control and Positioning Applications |
AMI Semiconductor , a designer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal and structured digital products, today announced that it has expanded its high-resolution single-chip motordriver/controller capability with a new technology that allows engineers to rapidly implement sensorless stall detection into stepper motor-based designs. This technology is demonstrated in the new EVK-3062x evaluation kit, which is based on the company's 800mA bipolar 2-phase stepper motordriver/controller ICs.
Designed to simplify the development of remote and multiple axes positioning applications, the EVK-3062x kit combines a graphical user interface, USB connection, a central board with connection cables and supply, a demonstration motor, and four miniature PCBs ("stamps") featuring AMIS-3062x single-chip stepper motordriver samples. These samples comprise a family of devices providing key motordriver and controller functions, including stall detection.
Offering LIN and/or I2C connectivity, the EVK-3062x will suit the development of a variety of automotive, industrial and commercial motion control applications. These include headlamp leveling and swiveling systems, automotive HVAC designs, surveillance camera control, professional lighting equipment, industrial X,Y,Z tables, and manufacturing robots.
By providing integrated stall detection, the new evaluation kit allows designers to develop silent, yet accurate position calibration, and semi-closed loop operation when approaching mechanical end stops. As a result, noise and vibration at end-stops can be eliminated and motion control accuracy and reliability can be improved without the need for optical encoders, position sensors or software algorithms.
By offering a dedicated LIN interface, the AMIS-30623 'stamp' in the EVK-3062x can be used in development of mechatronics solutions that are connected remotely to a LIN master. Compared to solutions with centrally placed drivers, the LIN bus saves wiring cost and leads to improved EMC performance - key issues for automotive and industrial applications that are expected to operate in cost-sensitive, harsh and electrically noisy environments. The dedicated I2C serial interface provided by the EVK-3062x when configured with the AMIS-30624 'stamp' allows engineers to evaluate and develop solutions in which the IC is a peripheral device situated next to a host microcontroller on a single PCB.
Each AMIS-3062x IC is designed for operation at temperatures from -40(degree)C to 125(degree)C, can deliver programmable peak currents up to 800mA, and has advanced diagnostics features. The on-chip position controller is configurable for different motor types, positioning ranges and parameters including speed, acceleration and deceleration. Devices also incorporate a hold current feature, while a power down supply current of under 100 micro Amps ensures minimum power consumption when the IC is not operational.
"These kits demonstrate our advanced mixed-signal semiconductor process technologies that allow high-current drivers, high-precision sensors and digital control functions to be integrated into a single IC," said Robert Klosterboer, senior vice president of integrated mixed-signal products at AMIS. "By combining position control, driver functionality, bus connectivity, and stall detection in a single device, we are providing designers with a way to improve the performance and reliability of stepper motor-based applications while minimizing cost, component count and time-to-market."
Pricing for the EVK-3062x is $350 per kit.
About AMI Semiconductor
AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is a leader in the design and manufacture of silicon solutions for the real world. As a widely recognized innovator in state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal products, mixed-signal foundry services and structured digital products, AMIS is committed to providing customers with the optimal value, quickest time-to-market semiconductor solutions. Offering unparalleled manufacturing flexibility and dedication to customer service, AMI Semiconductor operates globally with headquarters in Pocatello, Idaho, European corporate offices in Oudenaarde, Belgium, and a network of sales and design centers located in the key markets of the United States, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.