Small intelligent power device for BLDC motor drives

Toshiba has launched a small new intelligent power device (IPD) for space-constrained brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive applications such as air conditioners, air purifiers, and pumps.

The new IPD (TPD4165K) has an increased maximum output current of 3A, compared to the 2A rating of Toshiba’s existing products like TPD4163K, or TPD4164K. This extends the range of supported equipment and allows use in higher power applications. The device is suitable for sine-wave drive.

As power supply voltage may fluctuate significantly in some regions where the IP could be used, the absolute maximum voltage rating (VBB) has been increased to 600V to enhance long-term reliability. This represents a 20% increase over Toshiba’s previous products (TPD4123K, TPD4123AK, TPD4144K, TPD4144AK, TPD4135K, TPD4135AK).

The new TPD4165K is housed in a through-hole HDIP30 package. This has a 21% smaller footprint than the DIP26 package used for many of Toshiba’s previous products, simplifying the design process for challenging space-constrained applications. The new device measures just 32.8mm x 13.5mm x 3.525mm. It supports either three-shunt or single-shunt resistor circuit for current sensing.

Built into the new IPD is a range of safety features including over-current, under-voltage and thermal shutdown. Additionally, an external signal can be applied to the SD pin to control the behaviour of the output stage. The DIAG output pin provides the status of the safety conditions.

Designers can freely access a reference design for a sensorless BLDC motor drive circuit based upon the new TPD4165K and Toshiba’s TMPM374FWUG microcontroller with vector control engine capability. The reference design data can be downloaded from Toshiba’s website.

Toshiba will continue to expand its product range by adding devices with improved characteristics. This will assist designers by improving design flexibility as well as contributing to carbon neutrality through energy-saving motor control.