Cambridge GaN Devices to Bring GaN Benefits to Motor Control
Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD) and Qorvo have announced a collaboration to develop an evaluation kit (EVK) and reference design for motor control applications using GaN power ICs. This initiative aims to improve power efficiency, compactness, and reliability in BLDC and PMSM systems. Qorvo’s PAC5556A motor/control IC, featuring CGD’s ICeGaN technology, will be the centerpiece of the EVK. GaN technology offers benefits such as low losses, high efficiency, and reduced thermal management needs. The EVK RD5556GaN will be available for purchase in Q3 2024 and will be showcased at the PCIM exhibition in June 2024.
- Collaboration with Qorvo to develop an EVK for motor control applications.
- GaN technology improves power efficiency and system reliability.
- ICeGaN simplifies design and reduces BOM costs.
- EVK RD5556GaN available for purchase in Q3 2024.
- Showcasing at PCIM exhibition increases visibility and market reach.
- No immediate financial benefits reported.
- Potential delay risks until Q3 2024 availability.
Insights
The partnership between Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD) and Qorvo to develop a reference design and evaluation kit for motor control applications presents noteworthy advancements in the semiconductor industry. Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology is pivotal due to its ability to enhance power density and efficiency, essential for modern electronics requiring compact and efficient solutions.
GaN's lower losses mean reduced heat generation and improved efficiency, allowing devices to shrink in size and cost. This is particularly valuable for applications like BLDC (Brushless DC) and PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) motors, common in household appliances and industrial systems. Moreover, the integration of ICeGaN technology simplifies the design process and reduces the overall Bill of Materials (BOM), which has broad financial and operational implications.
This collaboration suggests a significant step towards mainstream adoption of GaN technology in motor controls, which can lead to more efficient and reliable systems. However, the real test will be in the adoption rate by design engineers and how effectively they can leverage these new tools in their applications. The impact on the market will depend on the industry's response to these advancements.
From a financial perspective, the collaboration between CGD and Qorvo is a strategic move to capture a larger share of the growing market for energy-efficient motor controls. The inclusion of GaN technology is a forward-thinking approach that could potentially disrupt traditional silicon-based solutions. By providing a more efficient and cost-effective alternative, CGD and Qorvo are poised to attract more business from manufacturers looking to optimize their systems.
The timing of the EVK availability in Q3 2024 aligns well with the industry’s ongoing transition towards greener technologies. This could positively influence Qorvo’s market position and financial performance by driving demand for their PAC5556A motor control ICs. However, investors should watch for adoption rates, customer feedback and any technical hurdles that might arise during implementation. The success of this initiative could enhance Qorvo's and CGD's revenue streams and market valuation significantly.
Despite the potential for long-term gains, short-term fluctuations are likely as the market adjusts to and evaluates this new technology. Investors should remain cautious yet optimistic about the financial prospects tied to this development.
Evaluation kit to feature Qorvo’s high-performance BLDC/PMSM motor controller/driver and CGD’s easy-to-use ICeGaN ICs
Cambridge GaN Devices to Bring GaN Benefits to Motor Control (Photo: Business Wire)
Giorgia Longobardi | CEO, CGD “Because ICeGaN – unlike other GaN implementations from other companies – integrates the interface circuitry but not the controller together with the GaN HEMT, it is simple to combine with highly integrated motor controller and drive ICs such as Qorvo’s PAC5556A 600 V High Performance BLDC / PMSM Motor Controller and Driver. We are delighted to partner with Qorvo to enable motor controller and driver applications to enjoy the benefits of GaN power.” |
Jeff Strang | General Manager, Power Management Business Unit, Qorvo “Wide bandgap semiconductors such as GaN and SiC are being actively considered in various motor control applications for the power density and efficiency benefits they bring. CGD’s ICeGaN technology offers ease of use and reliability, two crucial factors for motor control and drive designers. We are excited to see the reaction of design engineers when they experience the power of GaN combined with our highly integrated PAC5556A 600V BLDC motor control solution.” |
GaN brings a variety of benefits, primarily lower losses, which results in higher efficiency, leading to increased power availability and less heat. This reduces the need for complex, bulky, and costly thermal management solutions, resulting in smaller, more powerful systems that have a longer life. GaN also delivers higher torque at low speeds and, therefore, more accurate control. Also, GaN allows high-speed switching, which can reduce audible noise, which is especially valued for domestic items such as ceiling fans, heat pumps, and refrigerators.
In addition to being easy to use, ICeGaN offers several other significant benefits over other GaN devices. The gate drive voltage of ICeGaN is compatible with IGBTs. Because ICeGaN integrates the Miller clamp within the GaN IC, a negative Turn-Off voltage is not required, and low-cost current drivers can be used. Finally, ICeGaN includes a useful current sense function, simplifying circuit design and reducing BOM.
The reference design is available today, and EVK RD5556GaN will be available for purchase in Q324. It will also be shown on CGD’s booth Hall 7 643 at the PCIM exhibition in Nuremberg,
About Cambridge GaN Devices
Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD) designs, develops and commercialises GaN transistors and ICs enabling a radical step change in energy efficiency and compactness. Our mission is to bring innovation into everyday life by delivering effortless energy-efficient GaN solutions. CGD’s ICeGaN™ technology is proven suitable for high volume production and the company is rapidly scaling up with manufacturing and customer partnerships in place. A fabless enterprise, CGD was spun out from
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240606086320/en/
Andrea Bricconi, Chief Commercial Officer, CGD | +49 1732410796
andrea.bricconi@camgandevices.com
Worldwide Agency: Nick Foot, BWW Communications | +44-7808-362251
nick.foot@bwwcomms.com
Source: Cambridge GaN Devices
FAQ
What is the significance of the CGD and Qorvo collaboration?
When will the EVK RD5556GaN be available?
What benefits does GaN technology offer in motor control?
What will be showcased at the PCIM exhibition?
What makes ICeGaN technology unique?
