Chip programming leader ACROVIEW Technology announced the expansion of its compatible chip model list alongside the release of its new programming software. The newly added model includes the Melexis brushless DC fan driver chip MLX90418, which is now supported by the ACROVIEW universal programming platform AP8000.
MLX90418 is a single-coil brushless DC fan driver chip designed specifically for the server market. It is an efficient single-coil solution that reduces the bill of materials (BoM) costs compared to existing three-phase brushless DC fans.
MLX90418 is a single-coil brushless DC motor driver chip. It can be parameter-configured for a wider range of applications and can replace traditional sensorless three-phase motor solutions. Additionally, it includes dedicated features for high-speed server fan applications. With the MLX90418, the power of single-coil solutions for 4cm and 6cm server fans can be scaled up to 30W.
This chip drives a 12V single-coil motor, typically without the need for external TVS protection. It integrates two half-bridges with very low RDSon, supporting an 8A braking current and configurable current limits of up to 4A.
MLX90418 controls speed via PWM input and provides speed feedback through a programmable FG output. It offers 8 configuration points for extensive speed curve configuration, with a maximum of 40,000 RPM (suitable for 2-pole motors).
Non-volatile memory can be configured via I2C and is “multi-configurable.” The chip features various protection functions, including: “locked rotor protection,” “undervoltage protection” (with hot-swap handling), “thermal shutdown,” and “overcurrent protection.”
The plug-and-play functionality without code eliminates the need for software validation based on MCU solutions, freeing up critical engineering resources to achieve more projects in a shorter time and enabling faster production ramp-up.
Features and Benefits
• Sensorless single-coil technology without Hall effect
• Open-loop and closed-loop speed control:
– Up to 40,000 RPM (suitable for 2-pole motors)
– ±1.5% closed-loop speed accuracy
– Soft switching
– Advance angle control
• Configurable motor start and stop options:
– Wind-start
– Reverse wind-start
– Forward and reverse wind-start
• Integrated drive bridge
– 135 mOhm (HS+LS)
– Configurable current limit up to 4.0A
– 8.0A braking current
– Integrated power clamp
• Operating range
– Supply voltage range from 6.7V to 18V
– Junction temperature range from -40°C to 150°C
• Extensive parameter configurability (multi-configurable)
– Sleep mode options
– 8-point configurable speed curve
– Configurable FG output for easy replacement of traditional 3-phase solutions
• Protection and diagnostics
– LRP / UVP / OCP / TSD
– Hot-swap handling with power-off braking option
– AC power loss management
• Packaging complies with RoHS standards
Applications
• High-speed server cooling fans
• General 12V fans and pumps, up to 30W
Internal Block Diagram
With a strong technical foundation, ACROVIEW Technology’s self-developed AP8000 universal programmer is considered an industry benchmark programming solution. This device supports flexible one-to-one and one-to-eight configurations, providing both online and offline working modes, and has developed dedicated programming solutions for eMMC and UFS storage chips, fully meeting the bare chip offline programming and on-board programming needs of the entire series of Melexis chips. The AP8000 consists of three core modules: host, baseboard, and adapter, and this modular design gives it excellent compatibility and expandability. As a universal programming platform, the AP8000 can adapt to various programmable chips on the market and, due to its stable and efficient performance, has become the core component of the ACROVIEW automated IPS5800S programming system, efficiently handling large-scale chip programming tasks to meet mass production needs.
The AP8000 host features flexible connectivity options, equipped with USB and NET interfaces, allowing for easy networking of multiple programmers. Through the networking function, users can easily achieve synchronized control of multiple programmers, efficiently conducting parallel programming operations. In terms of safety, the host has an intelligent safety protection circuit that can monitor the chip placement status and circuit connection in real-time. If it detects abnormal conditions such as chip reverse insertion or short circuits, it will immediately trigger a power-off protection mechanism, fully safeguarding the safe operation of the chip and programmer. The host is equipped with a high-speed FPGA chip, significantly enhancing data transmission and processing efficiency, ensuring a smooth and efficient programming process. To enhance user convenience, the back of the host is equipped with an SD card slot, allowing users to store project files generated on the PC to the SD card and insert it into the slot. They can then complete file selection and loading for programming operations through the physical buttons on the programmer, achieving independent operation without a PC. This design not only reduces dependence on computer hardware configurations but also simplifies the setup process of the working environment, significantly enhancing operational flexibility.
In terms of expandability and compatibility, the AP8000 adopts a modular design of baseboard and adapter, effectively extending the functional boundaries of the host. Currently, this device has achieved support for all mainstream semiconductor manufacturers’ products, covering well-known brands such as HOLTER, Fibocom, BOYAMICRO, NOVATEK, and Megawin. It supports a wide range of device types, including NAND, NOR, MCU, CPLD, FPGA, EMMC, etc., and is fully compatible with various industry-standard file formats such as Intel Hex, Motorola S, Binary, and POF, providing users with a one-stop, all-scenario chip programming solution.
Company Introduction
About Melexis: Melexis is a company focused on mixed-signal semiconductors, sensor chips, and programmable sensor systems for automotive service products. Melexis primarily designs and develops for automotive electronic systems. Today, almost all automotive brands worldwide rely on Melexis chips to ensure the safe, efficient, and comfortable transport of passengers and goods. The increasing demand for electronic products in the global automotive industry has led to rising performance requirements for chips and sensors. Melexis has long been certified to the strictest internationally recognized quality standard ISO/TS16949, ensuring the quality and reliability necessary for the automotive market.
About ACROVIEW Technology:ACROVIEW Technology is a national-level specialized and innovative “little giant” enterprise engaged in the research, development, production, and sales of semiconductor chip testing and programming equipment. The company is committed to empowering the entire industry chain customers, including Fabless, IDM, OSAT, wafer fabs, and end-device companies, through innovative semiconductor testing technologies and solutions. ACROVIEW’s pioneering fully automated aging testing ABI (Auto Burn-In) system greatly enhances the aging testing efficiency of customer chips and reduces the Per DUT testing costs. Additionally, it provides equipment products and solutions for all stages from PSV, CP, FT, BI, SLT, to programming. We perfectly integrate the leading advantages of product technology, system-level expertise, and a globally laid-out R&D and sales service network to create value for customers to gain a competitive edge in the market.
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