Melexis announces low noise fandriver for automotive applications


Melexis, a global microelectronics engineering company, announces a new single coil fan driver IC that is capable of delivering 600mA at 24V, or 15W and is suitable for a wide range of applications that require high performance with low noise operation.

 

The MLX90411 operates from a supply voltage in the range 3V to 28V, making it suitable for all applications that require a supply of 5V, 12V or 24V. This would include home appliances such as air purifiers as well as many white goods. In many of these applications AC induction motors are being replaced by brushless and a single coil fandriver, such as the MLX90411, is the preferred solution.

 

In automotive applications, the device can be directly connected to the battery without further protection due to its ability to withstand load dump pulses up to 40V. It is the world’s first ASIL-ready fandriver and can operate over a temperature range of -40°C to +150°C.

 

Multiple commutation options are available, encompassing both low EMI and low acoustic noise. A patent-pending adaptive control algorithm ensures maximum torque and the lowest reverse current across all operating conditions, with any design of motor. Both open loop and closed loop control is possible, with a wide range of dynamic (PI) settings, for a speed range up to 45,000 electrical RPM.

 

The MLX90411 features multiple integrated protection features including locked rotor, over temperature, overvoltage, short circuit and current limiting. Not only do these facilitate UL/CE certification, they also meet the most stringent automotive requirements.

 

The device is programmable via an I2C interface and all options are configurable in the on-board EEPROM. Based upon 0.18μm technology, the tiny MLX90411 is available in a straight-lead SOT package and a 2.5mm x 2.0mm x 0.4mm UTDFN package.

 

Commenting on the release, Dirk Leman, Motor Control Product Line Manager at Melexis said: “Melexis has a long history in single coil fandrivers for consumer computing applications. The MLX90411 extends our portfolio into household and white goods applications as well as providing a robust solution for automotive use. The closed loop speed control and adaptive commutation control deliver real benefits to designers.”

 

The MLX90411 is sampling now with volumes shipments due later this year.

 


About Melexis

Combining a passion for technology with truly inspired engineering, Melexis designs, develops and delivers innovative micro-electronic solutions that enable designers to turn ideas into applications that support the best imaginable future. The company’s advanced mixed-signal semiconductor sensor and actuator components address the challenges of integrating sensing, driving and communication into next-generation products and systems that improve safety, raise efficiency, support sustainability and enhance comfort.

 

A world leader in automotive semiconductor sensors, Melexis has used its core experience in creating chips for vehicle electronics to expand its portfolio of sensors, driver ICs and wireless devices to also meet the needs of smart appliances, home automation, industrial and medical applications. Melexis sensing solutions include magnetic sensors, MEMS sensors (pressure, TPMS, infrared), sensor interface ICs, optoelectronic single point and linear array sensors and Time of Flight. The company’s driver IC portfolio incorporates advanced DC & BLDC motor controllers, LED drivers and FET pre-driver ICs, while Melexis has the know-how and expertise to build bridges between components, allowing them to communicate in a clear and fast way, whether wired (e.g. LIN, SENT) or wireless (RKE, RFID).

 

Melexis is headquartered in Belgium and employs over 1,500 people in 20 locations worldwide. The company is publicly traded on Euronext Brussels (MELE).

 

For more information, visit www.melexis.com

 


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