Fairchild Semiconductor International introduces the FAN8200, a two-channel drive IC ideal for two-phase stepping motor drive system applications including cameras (PC and digital), disk drives, thermal printers, and motion controllers. Manufactured using an improved bipolar process, the performance of the FAN8200 is equal to or better than popular, more costly competitive devices. The FAN8200 features integrated dual H-bridge drivers with vertical PNP power transistors resulting in low saturation voltage (0.4V @ 0.4A) and optimum thermal characteristics for high-efficiency operation over a wide supply voltage range (Vcc = 2.5V ~ 7.0V). In addition, the device features built-in shoot-through current protection to minimize spikes on the power supply and a thermal shutdown (TSD) function. The FAN8200 accommodates either 3.3V or 5V MPU control input and provides an independent chip enable input for each bridge, allowing the device to also be applied as a low-voltage, general-purpose power driver.

Fairchild's stepping motor drive IC portfolio continues to expand to cover a wide voltage range and various package configurations. The FAN8200, with a maximum rating of 1W, is offered in a thru-hole, 14-pin DIP-300 package. The surface-mount version of the device, the FAN8200D, is rated at 600mW and is offered in a 14-pin SOP-225 package. Both versions are rated for operation over -20 to +75ýC. (Upon special request, a 14-pin TSSOP package also is available.) Contact your local sales representative for ordering requirements.

Fairchild Semiconductor International, Analog and Mixed Signal Products Group, 3001 Orchard Parkway, San Jose, CA 95134. Customer Support Center at 888-522-5372; Fax 972-910-8036. Website: "http://i.cmpnet.com/chipcenter/analog/products_700-799/www.fairchildsemi.com"

Fairchild has other drive ICs that are similar to the FAN8200, such as the KA3100D. The FAN8200, however, provides some differences and advantages. It addresses the newer market needs for lower power consumption and runs at a lower operational voltage. It is the first of a series of devices that will expand on our current line-up of stepper motor drive ICs. It also is available in a smaller package than the KA3100D.

This stepping motor drive IC has some improved operational characteristics compared to some of the competition. For example, shoot-through current, the current that flows from supply to ground due to the simultaneous conduction of upper and lower transistors in the bridge output, is improved. The 8200 has a shoot-through current protection that can suppress spikes on the power supply node during switching times, which enables reliable operation.

The device is also designed on Fairchild's enhanced bipolar process that uses a vertical power PNP transistor. This allows the upper power switches to have a lower saturation voltage. The band-gap circuit has a temperature-independent voltage reference that enables the device's output characteristics to remain stable over a wide temperature range.

Although it's not about state of the art chips and designs, you can find more information about stepping motors by perusing this tutorial; "Control of Stepping Motors, a Tutorial", By Douglas W. Jones, University of Iowa, Department of Computer Science.

The FAN8200 price is US $0.80 in DIP-14 (1,000 pieces.) US $0.78 in SOP-14 (1,000 pieces.) Availability is now with delivery in 8-10 weeks.

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