Current sensors and fan driver ICs deliver improved performance and energy efficiency

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. has announced three new solutions to enhance motor control and thermal management performance in e-mobility and industrial automation applications. These new solutions, the ACS37035 and ACS37630 current sensors, and the A89347 automotive-grade fan driver IC, deliver advanced capabilities for various applications.

"Our latest motor control and thermal management solutions reflect Allegro's commitment to delivering innovative technology that enhances efficiency and performance across automotive and industrial applications," said Ram Sathappan, vice president of Global Marketing and Applications at Allegro. "The ACS37035 and ACS37630 provide industry-leading accuracy and noise immunity for precise motor control for demanding applications such as robots, industrial motors and electric vehicle traction inverters. The A89347 fan driver IC ensures quiet, reliable operation in seat- and battery-cooling applications in the e-mobility space. We are excited to highlight these products as a forward-looking solution for simplifying design, improving overall system efficiency, and empowering our customers to innovate and deliver exceptional value."

The ACS37035 high-accuracy current sensor boasts a 1MHz bandwidth and 0.45µs typical response time, enabling precise measurement of high-frequency currents in fast control loops. Its differential sensing capability, combined with a Common-Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) of 4mA/Gauss, supplies high immunity to external magnetic fields, ensuring accurate measurements even in noisy environments. With a ±3% sensitivity error over temperature and a maximum offset voltage of ±15mV, the sensor minimises error and improves system performance. This high level of precision and noise immunity allows tighter control loops, resulting in improved motor efficiency, decreased power consumption, and smoother operation. Target applications include motor control, load detection and management, and switch-mode power supplies.

Designed for U-core current sensing applications such as xEV traction inverter and BMS, the ACS37630 provides high bandwidth (up to 250kHz) and a fast analog output with a 1.6µs typical response time. Its vertical Hall technology allows sensing parallel to the package surface, which is excellent for system integration with U-core magnets. This contactless, non-invasive current sensing solution eradicates the necessity for C-core magnets, simplifying assembly and lowering system complexity. With a sensitivity of ±0.7% and offset of ±5mV, the device supplies precise current measurements over the full automotive Grade 0 operating temperature range of –50C to +150C. A simplified design and high accuracy decrease current sensing system design and manufacturing complexity while lowering costs and enhancing system reliability.

The A89347 is an automotive-grade, sensorless sinusoidal three-phase BLDC driver for EV seat- and battery-cooling fans. It provides integrated closed-loop speed control, minimising vibration and audible noise. A customisable speed curve configured via EEPROM also allows for tailored performance in various fan applications. The device features slew rate control, lock detection, and a low-power standby mode with a current consumption of just 10µA. Flexible control contributes to quieter, more efficient fan operation, while lower power consumption extends battery life. This AEC-Q100-qualified IC provides reliable operation in automotive environments.

The ACS37035 and ACS37630 are available now, and the A89347 will be available this summer. All devices will include evaluation boards and comprehensive support resources to aid customers with design and development.