Allegro MicroSystems Debuts A3936 Controller IC

Allegro MicroSystems Inc. (Worcester, MA) introduced its latest generation, three-phase, brushless dc, motor controller/driver IC, which features 3A capable DMOS outputs and on-chip commutation logic. The smaller, cost-effective, next-generation A3936 is based on DMOS technology that offers PWM current control of three-phase brushless dc motors; low Rds(on) DMOS outputs; synchronous rectification; 3V and 5V logic voltage compatibility; and configurable slow, fast and mixed-decay modes.

The A3936 will operate with motor supply voltages up to 50V and motor winding currents of 3A. The A3936 is also compatible with both 5V and 3V logic supplies. A tachometer output is provided to enable easy implementation of an external speed-control loop.

Allegro’s three-phase motor controller with integrated drivers is targeted to meet the needs of process-control equipment, medical equipment manufacturers and office-automation applications. The A3936 is supplied in a 44-lead PLCC with a copper batwing tab. The power tab is at ground potential and needs no electrical isolation.

Allegro’s A3936 has a 10-week lead-time to market and is priced at $3.18 in quantities of 5,000.