Allegro MicroSystems Inc. (Worcester, MA) introduced its new A3967 low-cost microstepping motor driver IC that uses the Allegro EasyStepper™ translator for microstepping (one-eighth step) operation. The A3967 microstepping motor driver IC is targeted at bipolar stepper motors that run up to 750mA as well as office automation, industrial and medical markets.
The A3967 is designed to operate bipolar stepper motors in full-, half-, quarter- and eighth-step modes, with an output drive capability of 30V and ±750mA. When a STEP signal occurs, the A3967 determines if that step results in a higher or lower current in each of the motor phases. If the change is a higher current, then the decay mode is set to slow decay. If the change is a lower current, then the decay mode will be set by the voltage at the percent-fast-decay input. The current decay control scheme results in reduced audible motor noise, increased step accuracy and reduced power dissipation. Internal circuit protection includes thermal shutdown with hysteresis, under-voltage lockout and crossover current protection. Special power-up sequencing is not required.
The A3967 has a 16-week lead time to market and is offered in a 24-lead plastic SOIC with a copper batwing tab. The A3967 will be priced at $1.87 per part for quantities of 1,000.
