Allegro MicroSystems Announces 4x4mm 50 V Full-Bridge Gate Drivers for Automotive and Industrial Applications

Rhea-AI Summary

Allegro MicroSystems (Nasdaq: ALGM) has launched two innovative full-bridge gate drivers, A89505 and A89506, designed for automotive and industrial use. These drivers replace mechanical relays with solid-state solutions, enhancing performance and reliability while minimizing design footprint. Capable of operating at a maximum of 50V, they include built-in current sensing and diagnostics, significantly reducing the need for external components. These advancements cater to applications such as electric vehicle components and robotics, promoting battery efficiency and reliability in compact designs.

Positive

• Launch of A89505 and A89506 drivers enhances performance and reliability.
• Drivers are 36% smaller than competitors, reducing design footprint.
• Built-in current sensing and diagnostics lower external component needs.
• Supports applications in EVs and robotics, improving battery life.

Negative

• None.

New drivers enable fewer external components and smaller footprints while improving performance

Manchester, NH, USA, May 17, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (“Allegro”) (Nasdaq: ALGM), a global leader in sensing and power solutions for motion control and energy-efficient systems, today announced two new full-bridge gate drivers for automotive and industrial applications. Available with direct control (A89505) and pulse-width modulation (A89506) options, these devices up-integrate critical features to make system design easier, replacing mechanical relays with solid-state drivers to improve performance and reliability. With built-in capabilities including flexible interface logic, EMI mitigation with programmable gate drive, motor current feedback and multiple diagnostic features, these devices require very few external components and are available in a 4x4 mm QFN package, 36% smaller than comparable 5x5 mm devices.

The A89505 and A89506 are ideal for vehicle applications such as window and door actuators, EV charger locks, electronic parking brakes, and folding mirrors. Their solid-state design also makes them ideal for battery-powered applications that incorporate brushed DC motors such as building automation and robotics, improving reliability and battery life while facilitating smaller design footprints. 

Both drivers include built-in current sensing capabilities, eliminating the need for external current sense resistors and reducing external component requirements to as few as seven. Integrated diagnostics further obviate the need for additional microprocessor programming and addition circuitry. Designers can fit the functionality they need into smaller system footprints, reducing bills of materials (BOMs) and printed circuit board (PCB) sizes while increasing performance and improving the consumer experience.

The A89505 and A89506 build on Allegro’s decades of motor control expertise. Both are capable of 50V absolute maximum supply voltages and offer higher gate drive voltage at low VBB and better efficiency when running on battery power, allowing designers to specify lower-cost FETs. They even enable lower current draw in standby states to reduce total battery load.

“As cars continue down a path toward full electrification, designers are looking for motor drivers that increase performance and battery life without adding size to system designs. The same goes for people designing for Internet of Things and industrial applications,” says Steve Lutz, Business Line Director for Motor Drivers at Allegro. “In addition to being 36% smaller than other drivers on the market, the A89505 and A89506 include advanced features and capabilities that help designers shrink overall PCB sizes and fit everything into more compact modules. Both drivers are easier to use and implement than relays or discrete systems, and increase overall reliability while reducing power consumption.”

Integrated Features Increase Design Flexibility

The A89505 and A89506 gate drivers help provide better motor control than mechanical relays and reduce the need for external components. Programmable gate drive reduces EMI and transients caused by fast switching, and both drivers can adjust gate current to better control the slew rate of external MOSFETs.

Both devices include current limit detection flags, which are triggered when the programmable current limit is reached. This feature allows a vehicle electronic control unit (ECU) to detect pinches or stalls, with the ability to overdrive a motor in case of ice or freezing.

Pricing and Availability

The A89505 and A89506 are available in a low-profile 4 × 4 mm, 20-contact QFN package (suffix “ES”) and a 20-lead eTSSOP (suffix “LP”), both with exposed thermal pad. For product pricing and samples, contact an Allegro sales office or authorized distributor. For datasheets and more information on Allegro’s comprehensive motor driver family, including the A89505 and A89506, please visit the Allegro website.

About Allegro MicroSystems

Allegro MicroSystems (Nasdaq: ALGM) is redefining the future of sensing and power technologies. From green energy to advanced mobility and motion control systems, our team is passionate about developing intelligent solutions that move the world forward and give our customers a competitive edge. With global engineering, manufacturing and support, Allegro is a trusted partner to both large enterprises and regional market leaders worldwide. Visit www.allegromicro.com.

 

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• A89505 and A89506

FAQ

What are the new drivers launched by Allegro MicroSystems?

Allegro MicroSystems launched two new drivers: A89505 and A89506 for automotive and industrial applications.

How do the A89505 and A89506 improve system design?

They replace mechanical relays with solid-state drivers, reducing the need for external components and supporting smaller designs.

What is the significance of the size reduction in the new drivers?

The A89505 and A89506 are 36% smaller than comparable devices, allowing for more compact designs in various applications.

What applications are suitable for the new A89505 and A89506 drivers?

These drivers are ideal for automotive applications such as window actuators and are also suitable for battery-powered robotics.

What features do the A89505 and A89506 drivers include?

They feature built-in current sensing, diagnostics, and programmable gate drive capabilities.