STMicroelectronics has released STSPIN820 IC. ST’s STSPIN820 IC enables the next generations of stepper-motor-based robots to achieve smoothness and silence, with smaller size, greater precision, and lower power consumption. With its high-speed inputs and precise micro-stepping algorithm, it can turn a motor by a fraction of a degree to move a 3D printer’s head at a speed of more than 500mm/s, with submicron precision to create parts very quickly and with incredible surface finish, or control extremely precise movements like sample loading, capping/decapping, and storage/retrieval in next-generation clinical automation systems. Other motor-driven medical equipment such as plate handlers, fluid pumps, blood analyzers, and respirators can be quieter, more compact, and cost-effective.
Measuring just 4mm x 4mm, and containing both the control intelligence and fully protected power components (rated 45V and 500mΩ RDS(ON)) for driving the motor, the chip is the world’s smallest all-in-one high-precision controller. Manufacturers of automation equipment can simply place the device on the controller circuit board, with minimal extra parts needed to complete the system, to save space and enhance system reliability.
The STSPIN820 is in production now, packaged as a 4mm x 4mm QFN device, and available from $1.25 for orders of 1000 pieces.
The associated STSPIN board (X-NUCLEO-IHM14A1) will be showcased at the ST booth at SPS IPC Drives in Nuremberg, 28-30 November 2017.
The STSPIN820 is a dedicated stepper-motor driver with 256-microstep resolution. It operates from a supply voltage between 7V and 45V, simplifying design-in for a wide range of applications. The maximum output RMS current of 1.5A gives designers flexibility to satisfy various power and torque requirements.
STSPIN820 delivers a superior combination of high performance and cost-effectiveness by leveraging ST’s new proprietary Smart Power technology, which integrates motor-control logic featuring a high-precision micro-stepping algorithm with a low-RDS(ON) fully protected power stage in a single device. It provides familiar step-clock and direction-input pins thereby simplifying connection to a host processor or microcontroller.
In addition, a dedicated Standby pin allows the device to be put in low-power mode to minimize consumption in energy-conscious applications.
Over-current, over-temperature, and short-circuit protection are also built in, allowing the device to withstand harsh industrial environments, and further helping to reduce circuit complexity, component count, and bill-of-materials costs.
About STMicroelectronics
ST is a global semiconductor provider delivering intelligent and energy-efficient products and solutions. In 2016, the Company’s net revenues were $6.97 billion, serving more than 100,000 customers worldwide. Further information can be found at www.st.com