STMicroelectronics (www.st.com) is proud to announce the launch of its customizable high-end motor-control SPIMD20 module – which is small enough to be directly mounted on the motor and provide connection via industrial Ethernet. The module will allow faster delivery of cost-effective industrial solutions, including multi-axis robotics, packaging machines, conveyors and process automation equipment.

The new module can drive brushless three-phase motors of up to 2 kW and is suited for a wide variety of industrial applications. Made in collaboration with motion-control specialist Robox (www.robox.it), the module combines the reliable high-performance semiconductor technologies of STMicroelectronics, such as the TD352 – gate driver and 1200V/40A IGBT power switches. Two STM32 microcontrollers offer a powerful processing engine for networking functions and motor control. A real-time communication interface that supports protocols like CANopen and EtherCAT DS402 is also provided. Basic firmware that supports network connectivity as well as feature PWM driving, speed-loop execution and current loop synchronized to the fieldbus is available.

The SPIMD20 module supports full customization of logic and firmware, giving designers full control over the type of Ethernet fieldbus and motor-control algorithm. ”The SPIMD20 combines custom configurability, high performance, and the convenience of distributed control for the first time in an off-the-shelf module,” said Matteo Lo Presti, Group Vice President and General Manager of Systems Lab & Technical Marketing, Industrial and Multisegment Sector at STMicroelectronics. ”This combination of features is a breakthrough in motion control that will enable developers to reduce engineering costs, cut time to market, and quickly scale their designs as markets and opportunities evolve.”