Automotive full-bridge gate driver IC with built-in fault detection and independent “enable” function

Allegro’s A5929 is ideal for integrated starter generator applications

Allegro MicroSystems: The new A5929 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a full-bridge gate driver IC designed to drive N-channel external power MOSFETs in automotive applications including integrated starter generator (ISG) systems.

The device incorporates a specially designed charge pump regulator that provides a full gate drive voltage of greater than 10 V at battery voltages down to 7 V and allows operation with reduced gate drive at battery voltages down to 5.5 V. A bootstrap capacitor is used to provide the battery supply voltage required for N-channel MOSFETs.

One logic level input is provided for each of the four power MOSFETs in the full-bridge, allowing motors to be driven with any PWM scheme defined by an external controller. The power MOSFETs are protected from cross-conduction by integrated crossover control. Motor phase short-to-supply and short-to-ground detection is provided by independent drain-source voltage monitors on each MOSFET. Short-circuit faults, supply undervoltage, and chip overtemperature conditions are indicated by a single open-drain fault output.

The A5929KLPTR-T is supplied in a 24-pin TSSOP power package with an exposed thermal pad (package type LP) for enhanced power dissipation. This package is available in lead (Pb) free versions, with 100% matt-tin lead frame plating (suffix –T).

About Allegro
Allegro MicroSystems, LLC is a leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance semiconductors. Allegro's innovative solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive market, with additional focus on office automation, industrial, and consumer/communications solutions. Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) with design, applications, and sales support centers located worldwide. Further information about Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com

Allegro MicroSystems Europe, headquartered in Chertsey, United Kingdom, is the European sales and marketing operation, and operates a network of representatives and distributors throughout Europe.  Allegro also has an engineering design centre in Edinburgh in Scotland and an application and marketing centre in Annecy in France.