High-resolution micro-stepping motor driver IC with integrated current sensing

Toshiba has  launched an additional device to its line-up of micro-stepping motor driver ICs. 

The new TC78H670FTG is a dual channel high resolution micro-stepping motor driver IC that is capable of driving motors with a wide range of operating voltages. 

The new device is intended for a broad variety of consumer applications including 3D printers, cameras, security cameras, portable printers, handheld scanners, pico-projectors and battery powered medical devices.

The IC can drive a micro-stepping motor of up to 128 steps and with a voltage ranging from 2.5 V to 16 V at currents of up to 2 A. 

The output on-resistance (RDS(ON) is only 0.48 Omega; as the TC78H670FTG uses Toshiba’s latest CDMOS process, thereby reducing voltage loss and heat generation inside the driver.  

An ultra-low standby current of just 0.1 µA prolongs battery life and the ability to operate with a 1.8 V to 5.0 V interface allows connection to a wide variety of hosts and microcontrollers. 

As a result, the device is suited for use in USB powered and battery powered applications as well as with standard 9-12V system devices.

The micro-stepping control allows motors to be operated smoothly and quietly with reduced vibration and improved rotation angle accuracy. 

Safety features such as over current detection, thermal shut down and open-load detection are incorporated.

The motor driver is housed in a compact QFN16 package with a footprint of just 3 mm x 3 mm which, along with the elimination of the two bulky and expensive current sense resistors by incorporating on-chip current detection, contributes to significant cost and space saving in designs.