Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a billion dollar company who manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan. The two companies jointly develop and market leading-edge products in the areas of power management and motion control. This enables both organizations to fully utilize the company's worldwide strengths and resources for the benefit of our customers.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces full-bridge motor driver

23 January 2006 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A1441, a full-bridge motor driver designed to drive single-phase, low-voltage bipolar brushless DC motors. Commutation of the motor is achieved by the use of a single Hall element to detect the position of an alternating pole ring magnet. Allegro's advanced IC semiconductor process allows for the integration of the Hall element on the same IC as the motor control circuitry, providing a single-chip solution for high reliability.

Free downloadable software provides simple tool for designing switching power supply designs

04 January 2006 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. continues to expand its power management offerings with free software for customers of our STR-A6100, STR-A6200 and STR-W6700 switching regulator series from Sanken Electric Company, Ltd. Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric, a $1.4 billion company that manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch-mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan. The two companies jointly develop and market leading-edge products in the areas of power management and motion control.

New eight channel constant-current latched LED driver with open LED detection

22 December 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro announces the A6278, a new eight channel, constant-current latched LED Driver with open LED Detection, specifically designed for LED-display applications. Each BiCMOS device includes an 8-bit CMOS shift register, accompanying data latches, and 8 npn constant-current sink drivers. The new device is available in several package options and allowable package power dissipation. This device provides the user with an open LED feature that allows the user to quickly identify system problems. In addition, the A6278 offers an output delay feature that improves ground current spikes. This new device is targeted at the industrial, medical and telecommunications markets.

Staggered output delay improves noise immunity

22 December 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a new LED driver specifically designed for LED-display applications. Each BiCMOS device includes a 16-bit CMOS shift register, accompanying data latches, and 16 channels constant-current sink drivers. Allegro's A6279 provides the user with an open LED feature that allows the user to quickly identify system problems. The A6279 is the only industry-integrated solution with a staggered output delay to improve noise immunity performance.

New bidirectional 1.5 mΩ hall-effect-based linear current sensor family

28 November 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a new family of current sensors that provide economical and precise solutions for current sensing in industrial, commercial, and communications systems. These are isolated integrated current sensing devices for easy implementation in customer applications. The ACS706 devices are bi-directional sensors that can measure either AC or DC currents. The power lead frame is designed for extremely low power loss, and is electrically isolated from the sensor signal leads. This isolation allows ACS706 sensors to be used in applications requiring electrical isolation without the addition of other isolation components. Typical applications include motor control, load detection and management, switched-mode power supplies, and overcurrent fault protection.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. to exhibit at Portable Design China Power Management Conference

16 November 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. will exhibit at the Power Management 2005 Conference as a platinum sponsor. The conference takes place on November 17th in Shenzhen, China and is organized by Portable Design China, the PennWell Corporation and ACT International. The conference expects attendance from 100 - 150 design engineers who specialize in power design for portable systems. Raymond Zheng, Allegro's Technical Sales Director for China, will be presenting on the broad topic of Power Management for Portables immediately following the keynote speaker.

True zero-speed digital speed sensor

03 November 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces an innovative addition to its cutting-edge speed-sensing solutions, the ATS642LSH. This sensor addresses critical requirements specific to ABS speed-sensing applications. In particular, the sensitive ATS642 achieves far airgap requirements, as well as incorporates algorithms that eliminate the chance for false learning due to calibration on micro-vibrations at start-up. Additionally, the ATS642 is able to handle extreme airgap variations due to cornering events.

A1242 ideal for motor-speed and direction-sensing applications

13 September 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the A1242, a new chopper-stabilized latch ideally suited for use in motor-speed and direction-sensing applications, as well as in other applications where the sensor is located far from the ECU. This sensor requires one less wire in the wiring harness than the comparable three-wire Hall-effect latch. Additionally, the two-wire feature of this sensor provides inherent short/open detection.

Small, Flexible, Low-Cost Xenon Photoflash Charger ICs for Allegro

29 August 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A8436, A8438 and A8439 Xenon Photoflash Capacitor Charger ICs with integrated IGBT driver. With selectable primary-peak current settings, an integrated 40 V MOSFET and a small 3x3 10-lead MLP package, the A8436/38/39 provide fast charge time and charge-complete indication with superior performance.

Microstepping Motor Driver with Built-In Translator

29 August 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3979, a complete microstepping motor driver with built-in translator for easy operation. It is designed to operate bipolar stepper motors in full, half, quarter and sixteenth-step modes, with output drive capability of 35 V and ± 2.5 A, and is a drop-in replacement for Allegro's A3977SLP with 16 microstep/step resolution.

Versatile High-Voltage Step-Down Regulator, A8499 serves as a general-purpose buck regulator

22 August 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A8499 High-Voltage Step-Down Regulator. This general-purpose buck regulator can be used in a wide variety of applications; the 50 V input range makes it ideal for consumer electronics and industrial applications where 12 V/20 V/28 V/26 V input voltages may occur.

Sanken's ICs offer frequency jittering for SMPS up to 20 W universal input

18 August 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro continues to expand its power management family with the STR-A6251/51M/52 from Sanken Electric Company, Ltd. Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a $1.4 billion company that manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch-mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan. The two companies jointly develop and market leading-edge products in the areas of power management and motion control.

Simple Five-Pin 1.2 MHz Step-Up Converter for Allegro

22 July 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A8483 1.2 MHz Step-Up Converter for Display Bias Supply. This simple five-pin step-up converter can be used as a general-purpose boost regulator for a multitude of applications. It is ideal for battery-powered applications, but can also be used in applications such as plasma or LCD TV bias.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Releases New Latched Sink Drivers

22 July 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A6800/01, A6821/41, and A6832/33 devices. These devices are cost-competitive latched sink drivers with 3.3 V logic supply capability, data input rates up to 10 MHz, and are RoHS compliant. As improved pin-to-pin replacements of the UCN5800/01, UCN5821/41, and UCN5832/33 devices respectively, these new DABiC-5 drivers contain a merged combination of bipolar and MOS technology for an interface flexibility beyond the reach of standard logic buffers and power driver arrays.

Sanken Electric Company Completes Purchase of PolarFab

12 July 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Saitama Japan, today announced its purchase of U.S. analog semiconductor foundry, PolarFab, LLC for $83 million. The legal entity will become Polar Semiconductor Inc. The acquisition is part of the Sanken Group's efforts to expand wafer fabrication capacity while obtaining advanced sub-micron process technology.

Hall-Effect Latch Family Replaced by Allegro

09 June 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the A121x family, which is intended not only to replace our legacy A317x and A318x family of Hall-effect latches with improved performance, but also to offer our customers a wider variety of packaging options. Additionally, for the first time with our continuous-time Hall-effect latch family, Allegro is offering Pb-free plating to comply with various international standards.

Allegro Announces Improvements to Family of Gear-Tooth Sensors

08 June 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A1421LK, A1422LK, and A1423LK, improved additions to Allegro's family of AC-coupled Hall-effect gear-tooth sensors. Improvements include a smaller package size and an integrated filter capacitor to provide additional reliability to the system solution.

Integrated tracking capacitor allows for ease of use

08 June 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces an innovative addition to its cutting-edge speed-sensing solutions, the ATS616LSG. This sensor is a proven solution for non-TPOS camshaft applications, providing improved EMC and ESD, and eliminating the need for an external switching capacitor. The ATS616LSG also has the advantage of the smaller integrated GTS package, while maintaining the key specifications of the ATS612LSB, like airgap range and high timing accuracy.

Self-calibrating gear-tooth sensors feature true power-on state recognition

25 May 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new ATS673 and ATS674 gear-tooth sensors from Allegro MicroSystems Europe are designed to operate with true power-on state (TPOS) recognition, and include a self-calibrating feature in running mode that improves accuracy performance over a wide temperature and air-gap range.

World's first omnipolar Hall-effect sensor for 3.6 V to 24 V applications

13 May 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The A3245 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is the world's first omnipolar Hall-effect device suited for 3.6 V to 24 V operation, making it ideally suited to use in automotive and industrial applications traditionally handled by reed switches.

Micropower omnipolar digital Hall-effect switches are ultra-sensitive

27 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The A3213 and A3214 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe are micropower omnipolar digital switches based on ultra-sensitive, pole-independent Hall-effect switches with latched digital outputs.

Power-management ICs feature quasi-resonant topology for low EMI noise characteristics

19 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The STR-W67xx Series from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a family of switch-mode power-management integrated circuits featuring a quasi-resonant topology which exhibits lower EMI noise characteristics - especially at more than 2 MHz - than designs based on conventional PWM (pulse-width-modulation) switching.

Allegro MicroSystems announces DMOS Microstepping Drivers with Translator

07 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems announces the release of the A3983 and A3984, two new DMOS microstepping motor drivers with built-in translator and output ratings of 35 V and 1.5 A (2 A peak). They are designed to operate bipolar stepper motors in full-, half-, quarter-, eighth- (A3983), and sixteenth- (A3984) step modes. The devices combine an easy-to-use STEP and DIRECTION interface with a small eTSSOP package (7.8 x 6.4 mm), efficient high-current output, and high-resolution microstepping control at a truly competitive price.

Allegro MicroSystems Announces Stepper Motor Driver with Built-In Translator

07 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3982, a new bipolar stepper motor driver with DMOS outputs rated at 35 V and ±1.5 A (2 A peak). Low ON resistance DMOS outputs, along with synchronous rectification, result in low-power dissipation, allowing higher motor currents and reduced temperature rise. Controlled with a simple two-wire STEP and DIRECTION interface for easy operation in full- or half-step modes, this device comes in a 24-pin SOIC package (15.4 x 7.5 mm) that is 20 to 50 percent smaller than competitive ICs in the same current range.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Announces DMOS Microstepping Drivers with Translator

07 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3983 and A3984, two new DMOS microstepping motor drivers with built-in translator and output ratings of 35 V and 1.5 A (2 A peak). They are designed to operate bipolar stepper motors in full-, half-, quarter-, eighth- (A3983), and sixteenth- (A3984) step modes. The devices combine an easy-to-use STEP and DIRECTION interface with a small eTSSOP package (7.8 x 4.4 mm), efficient high-current output, and high-resolution microstepping control at a truly competitive price.

Stepper Motor Driver with Built-In Translator for Allegro

07 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3982, a new bipolar stepper motor driver with DMOS outputs rated at 35 V and ±1.5 A (2 A peak). Low ON resistance DMOS outputs, along with synchronous rectification, result in low-power dissipation, allowing higher motor currents and reduced temperature rise. Controlled with a simple two-wire STEP and DIRECTION interface for easy operation in full- or half-step modes, this device comes in a 24-pin SOIC package (15.4 x 7.5 mm) that is 20 to 50 percent smaller than competitive ICs in the same current range.

Differential gear-tooth sensor for automotive engine control applications

05 April 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The ATS625 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a zero-speed differential gear-tooth sensor which is optimised to address the stringent requirements of automotive engine control, especially crank speed and position sensing.

Introduction of World's First Omnipolar Hall-Effect Sensor

31 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has introduced the A3245, the world's first omnipolar Hall-effect device suited for 3.6 V to 24 V. The omnipolar feature of Allegro's new A3245 digital switch easily allows for replacement of reed switches for superior reliability and ease of manufacturing, while eliminating the requirement for signal conditioning. Additionally, the omnipolar capability of this device eliminates the need for magnet orientation for simple position sensing applications during manufacturing.

World's First Omnipolar Hall-Effect Sensor Suited for 3.6 V TO 24 V

29 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the A3245, the world's first omnipolar Hall-effect device suited for 3.6 V to 24 V. The omnipolar feature of Allegro's new A3245 digital switch easily allows for replacement of reed switches for superior reliability and ease of manufacturing, while eliminating the requirement for signal conditioning. Additionally, the omnipolar capability of this device eliminates the need for magnet orientation for simple position sensing applications during manufacturing.

Low-cost field-programmable linear Hall-effect sensors

21 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems Europe has introduced a new family of low-cost linear Hall-effect sensor ICs, the A1373 and A1374, which offer field programmability on the output pin. The A1373/4 devices are one-time field-programmable linear Hall-effect sensors with low-noise ratiometric outputs, intended to allow the user greater flexibility from design concept to production.

Self-Calibrating TPOS Gear-Tooth Sensor introduced

15 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces an innovative addition to its cutting-edge speed-sensing solutions, the ATS673/4LSE. These sensors are designed to operate with a True Power-On State (TPOS) recognition and include a self-calibrating feature in running mode that improves accuracy performance over a wide temperature and air-gap range. The unique packaging concept integrates the magnet and a monolithic silicon IC, which are carefully designed to provide optimal performance. Allegro's advanced quick calibration routine and signal processing make speed sensing easier and more reliable than ever before.

Allegro Continues to Expand Power Management Product Line

14 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro is expanding its power management family with two new product families from Sanken Electric Company, Ltd.: the STR-A61xx series - low standby input power SMPS primary switchers in DIP-8 packages, and the STR-W67xx series - quasi-resonant topology ICs with low EMI noise and bottom skip function. Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a billion dollar company that manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan. The two companies jointly develop and market leading-edge products in the areas of power management and motion control.

Self-Calibrating TPOS Gear-Tooth Sensor for Allegro

08 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces an innovative addition to its cutting-edge speed-sensing solutions, the ATS673/4LSE. These sensors are designed to operate with a True Power-On State recognition and include a self-calibrating feature in running mode that improves accuracy performance over a wide temperature and air-gap range.

Allegro Continues to Expand Power Management Product Line

07 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro is expanding its power management family with two new product families from Sanken Electric Company, Ltd.: the STR-A61xx series - low standby input power SMPS primary switchers in DIP-8 packages, and the STR-W67xx series, quasi-resonant topology ICs with low EMI noise and bottom skip function. Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a billion dollar company that manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan.

A1242 ideal for motor-speed and direction-sensing applications

06 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the A1242, a new chopper-stabilized latch ideally suited for use in motor-speed and direction-sensing applications, as well as in other applications where the sensor is located far from the ECU. This sensor requires one less wire in the wiring harness than the comparable three-wire Hall-effect latch. Additionally, the two-wire feature of this sensor provides inherent short/open detection.

Low-Cost Xenon Photoflash Charger ICs for Allegro

05 March 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A8436, A8438 and A8439 Xenon Photoflash Capacitor Charger ICs with integrated IGBT driver. With selectable primary-peak current settings, an integrated 40 V MOSFET and a small 3x3 10-lead MLP package, the A8436/38/39 provide fast charge time and charge-complete indication with superior performance.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Introduces Low-Cost, Field-Programmable Linear Hall-Effect Sensors

01 February 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A1373 and A1374, output-pin programmable linear Hall-effect sensors. With a three-lead SIP package, lower output noise, and programming on the output pin, these devices will complement Allegro's existing portfolio of standard analog output Hall-effect sensors by offering a low-cost option for field programmability.

Improvements to Family of Continuous-Time Linears

24 January 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the A1301 and A1302, improvements to its popular continuous-time linears, the world's first family of linear sensors in a SOT23 package rated for operation to 150°C. Allegro was the first to offer low-noise, fast-response, continuous-time linears in the tiny SOT23W package (LH designator). The linear family has a quiescent output voltage that is 50% of the supply voltage, and output sensitivity options of 1.3 mV/G and 2.5 mV/G. The features of this family are ideal for use in linear and rotary position sensing systems over extended temperatures, to -40°C and +125°C.

Allegro nominated by EDN Magazine in 15th Annual Innovation of the Year Awards Competition

20 January 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. has been selected from a field of hundreds as a finalist for this year's EDN Innovator/Innovation Awards. Allegro was nominated in the Passive Components/Sensors category for its A132x family of linear Hall-effect sensors, the world's first family of automotive-grade linear sensors in a SOT23W package.

Allegro announces Automotive Multi-Output Regulator Target at Emerging Applications

20 January 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of a new automotive-grade multi-output regulator IC that features four regulator outputs. Two low-voltage outputs (using external pass transistors) provide DSP or microprocessor core and I/O voltages, while two linear 5 V tracking regulators, which track within 0.5% over temperature, can be used for driving sensors and other 5 V peripherals. Both 5 V outputs feature current foldback circuitry to protect against any short-to-ground events. The A8450 incorporates controlled power-up sequencing and power-on-reset (POR) functionality, as well as extensive fault detection and reporting.

New European Sensor Applications Centre Applications Centre to provide local customer support

14 January 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., As part of its continued commitment to customers and global plan for growth, Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the recent completion of our European Sensor Applications Centre. With our relationship with European customers at the forefront, and a history of strong business growth as a foundation, this applications centre will provide world-class local technical support in real-time.

First SOIC8-Packaged Hall-Effect Current Sensor with Integrated Current Path launched

07 January 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The newest current sensor family from Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., the ACS704, is the first SOIC8-packaged Hall-effect current sensor with the current path integrated into the package for greater sensitivity and accuracy. Available in both 15 A and 5 A versions, it measures bi-directional ac or dc currents by using a Hall-effect magnetic field sensor to measure the field generated by the current flow. Because there is no electrical connection between the current path and sensing circuit, it provides a minimum of 800 volts of isolation without the use of additional components.

High-Efficiency Boost Converter ICs in Ultra-Thin Package — Optimized to Drive White LEDs

14 December 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The A8430 is a non-inverting boost dc-dc converter, providing a programmable constant current output at up to 36 V for driving white LEDs in series. Driving the LEDs in series ensures identical currents and uniform brightness, and is more efficient than charge pump solutions thus leading to longer battery life. The output current is set with an external resistor, and can be varied with either a PWM signal or a control voltage at the top of the sense resistor when dimming control is required.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Launches Improved Accuracy Addition to Current Sensor Family

19 November 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the new ACS754/5 family of current sensors, an improved accuracy and extended range version of our existing ACS752 family. These devices provide a smaller, lower cost alternative to toroid-based sensors, and offer economical and precise current sensing in industrial, consumer, communications and automotive systems. The ACS754 devices are bi-directional sensors, while the ACS755 versions offer single-direction sensing with approximately twice the resolution of the bi-directional ACS754s.

Allegro Expands Product Line with Sanken Offerings

04 October 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro is expanding its power management family with several new product families, low-cost, high-current LDOs, and low-cost, high-current switching regulators. Allegro is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sanken Electric Company, Ltd., a billion dollar company that manufactures semiconductors, discretes, LEDs, and switch mode power supplies, with headquarters in Saitama, Japan. The two companies jointly develop and market leading-edge products in the areas of power management and motion control.

High-Efficiency Boost Converter IC in Ultra-Thin Package Optimized to Drive White LEDs

30 September 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. has developed a high-frequency boost converter with constant current output, ideal for driving white LEDs or similar loads. The A8430 is a non-inverting boost DC-DC converter, providing a programmable constant current output at up to 36 V for driving white LEDs in series. The output current is set with an external resistor, and can be varied with either a PWM signal or a control voltage at the top of the sense resistor when dimming control is required. Driving the LEDs in series ensures identical currents and uniform brightness, and is more efficient than charge pump solutions thus leading to longer battery life.

Competition inspires young engineers at the high school level

24 August 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Before his involvement with the Robotics Team at Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School, Mike Cuff had no idea the career path he'd choose. 'Nothing interested me,' said the 18-year-old. 'I didn't even know what major I'd choose in college.'

Don Alger continues to lead team in searching for ways to reduce Allegro's by products and emissions

28 July 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., As the Environmental Coordinator for Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Alger leads a 10-member Toxics Use Reduction team dedicated to reduce the byproducts and emissions at the mid-sized semiconductor manufacturer. In 1999, under Don's leadership, Allegro served as a Cleaner Technology Demonstration site, utilizing the opportunity to evaluate water conservation technology to reduce the use of expensive and hazardous water treatment chemicals - with an annual estimated savings of $275,000.

Automotive Addition to Family of Stepper Motor Driver ICs is Announced by Allegro

28 July 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3980, an automotive-friendly addition to Allegro's line of stepper motor driver ICs. The A3980, which is capable of up to 1/16th microstepping, features fault diagnostics and reporting and has integrated DMOS outputs, which are protected against short-to-battery and short-to-ground. Offered over a junction temperature range (TJ) of -40°C to +150°C and packaged in a very small footprint TSSOP (thermally enhanced), the A3980 is an excellent choice for driving automotive stepper motors.

Allegro Announces a New High-Accuracy Speed Sensor with Integrated Tracking Capacitor

18 June 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a new high-accuracy analog speed sensor with integrated tracking capacitor and dual zero-crossing output signal. Allegro's A1425 is ideal for automotive crankshaft speed sensing applications using ring magnets. This ac-coupled differential sensor with on-chip capacitor is a true zero-crossing detector; the output switches precisely when the difference in magnetic field strength between the two Hall elements is zero.

New Two-Wire, Direction Detection Gear-Tooth Sensor with Diagnostic Output is Launched

08 June 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a new optimized Hall-effect sensor integrated circuit and magnet combination that provides a user-friendly solution for digital gear-tooth sensing and true zero-speed direction-detection in two-wire applications. The sensor consists of a single-shot molded plastic package that includes a samarium cobalt magnet, a pole piece, and a Hall-effect IC that has been optimized to the magnetic circuit.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Introduces Next-Generation Two-Wire Unipolar Switches

28 May 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is proud to introduce a new family of factory- and field-programmable two-wire Hall-effect unipolar switches targeted at the automotive and industrial markets.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Introduces a Family of Linear Hall-Effect Sensors for High Temperature Operation

21 May 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the world's first family of linear sensors in a SOT23 package rated for operation to 150°C. Allegro's new family of parts consists of optimized, sensitive, temperature-stable linear devices with greatly improved offset characteristics. These ratiometric Hall-effect sensors provide a voltage output that is proportional to the applied magnetic field.

Simplify Manufacturing with a Small, Low-Cost, Isolated and Lead-Free Current Sensor

14 April 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro Microsystems, Inc. announces the new ACS752 family of current sensors, a higher-bandwidth (50 kHz) and improved accuracy companion to its existing ACS750 family of current sensors. The devices provide 3 kV isolation and single +5 V supply operation while placing only 130 µW of resistance in the current path. 50 A and 100 A versions are available, rated for -20°C to 85°C operating temperature range. The lead-free, PC-mountable package is only 14x22x7 mm overall, and integrates the current path, no need to design your own magnetic circuit or thread your conductor through the device.

Two-Wire Sensor Optimized to Address Difficulties of Transmission Speed Sensing is Introduced by Allegro

30 March 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., ATS643 is an innovative member of Allegro's cutting-edge speed-sensing solutions. Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the ATS643LSH, a two-wire sensor optimized to address the difficulties of transmission speed sensing, including withstanding dynamic changes in air gap while maintaining good duty cycle. The unique packaging concept integrates the magnet and a monolithic silicon IC, which are carefully designed to provide peak performance. Allegro's advanced quick calibration routine and signal processing make speed sensing easier and more reliable then ever before.

DMOS full-bridge motor driver IC

12 March 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., New from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, the A3949 is a DMOS full-bridge motor driver integrated circuit designed for the PWM (pulse-width-modulated) control of DC motors. The new device is capable of peak output currents of up to ±2.8 A and operating voltages of up to 36 V, and has low 'on' resistance outputs: typically 0.68 ohm for the source driver and 0.576 ohm for the sink driver.

Allegro features new Sanken power modules at PCIM Exhibition

01 March 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro features new Sanken power modules for the first time at PCIM Exhibition, Nuremberg, Germany, 25 - 27 May 2004. It is a new family of power-supply IC modules from Sanken, Allegro's parent company.

Three-phase brushless DC motor controller/driver IC

24 February 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A8904 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a 3-phase brushless DC motor controller/driver integrated circuit designed for applications where accurate control of high-speed motors is required. Key features of the new device include direction control, two transconductance gain options, and the facility for external speed control from a tachometer signal. A programmable digital frequency-locked-loop speed control circuit together with linear current control circuitry provides precise motor speed regulation.

Stepdown switching regulator ICs

10 February 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., New from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, the SI-8000 Series is a family of stepdown switching regulator ICs with output voltage ratings from 1.5 to 12 V and current outputs of 1.5 and 3 A. Designed to produce a regulated output voltage from a higher-voltage input ranging from 18 to 50 V, the new buck-convertor ICs are available in a variety of package styles including miniature DIP8 surface-mount types.

Two-phase unipolar stepper-motor translator/driver ICs

29 January 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems Europe has introduced two new families of translator/driver integrated circuits which provide the complete control and drive functions for two-phase unipolar stepper motors. Combining low-power CMOS logic with high-current, high-voltage power FET outputs, the SLA7050M and SLA7060M Series of power multi-chip modules (PMCM) provide fixed off-time, constant-current pulse-width modulation (PWM) control of the output current. Both devices offer full- or half-step control, while the SLA7060M Series also provides microstepping control.

Linear voltage regulator ICs cover wide current and voltage ranges

22 January 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The SI-3000 Series of linear voltage regulator integrated circuits, now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, includes devices with voltage ratings from 1.5 to 15 V and current outputs from 240 mA to 3 A.

Low-Cost 2.8 A DMOS Motor Driver in Small Footprint Package

20 January 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of a new DMOS full-bridge motor driver IC for dc motor applications. Designed to operate with a single supply, and with an output rating of 36 V at 2.8 A, the A3949 is intended to be the smallest, most cost-effective high-current DMOS motor driver available on the market today.

Pre-Driver ICs for Driving High Current Automotive & Industrial Actuators

14 January 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the introduction of a family of pre-driver IC products designed to drive external N-Channel MOSFETs. This family of products fills the need for driving either DC brush, or DC brushless (BLDC) motors in systems with motor supply voltages as low as 7 V and as high as 60 V.

LIN Bus transceiver with on-board 5 V power supply

08 January 2004 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., A LIN Bus transceiver IC with an on-board voltage regulator providing a 5 V DC supply has been introduced by Allegro MicroSystems, allowing the development of simple, inexpensive slave nodes in a LIN Bus system. The new A8423 provides all the physical interface requirements of the LIN (Local Interconnect Network) serial communications bus. The integrated voltage regulator, which is permanently enabled, provides a regulated 5 V output with a current limit of more than 50 mA - sufficient to power a microcontroller handling the LIN slave node protocol.

High-current gate driver IC for 3-phase motors

16 December 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has introduced a new 3-phase motor controller IC with high-current gate-drive capability. The new A3938 drives a wide range of power discrete n-channel MOSFETs and supports motor supply voltages from 12 V to 50 V. The A3938 integrates a bootstrapped high-side driver to minimise the external component count required to drive the n-channel MOSFETs. Integrated pulse-width-modulation (PWM) control logic, commutation logic, synchronous rectification and sophisticated protection features make the A3938 cost-effective and easy to implement.

Comprehensive Family of Voltage Regulation ICs for Satellite Receiver Applications for Allegro

11 December 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of four new low-noise block voltage regulators for satellite set-top box systems. Designed to future-proof set-top designs, these highly integrated devices feature legacy system compatibility and offer the flexibility of two-way DiSEqCTM communications.

Open-loop 50 A and 75 A current sensors operate at up to 150°C

03 December 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has added new 50 A and 75 A versions to its ACS750 family of open-loop Hall-effect current sensors. The new devices, designated ACS750xCA-050 and ACS750xCA-075, operate at temperatures from -40°C to +150°C, making them ideally suited to use in automotive applications as well as industrial systems.

Step-down switching regulator ICs feature synchronous rectification for fast load response and high efficiency

20 November 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Sanken Electric Co., Ltd. has developed two new families of synchronous-rectification step-down switching regulator control integrated circuits designed to provide fast load response and high efficiency in power management applications. The new SI-8011NVS and SI-8511NVS are ideally suited to use in equipment such as laptop PCs and digital televisions, where their efficiency levels of up to 93% can provide substantial reductions in power consumption. In particular, they meet the need for larger current, more accurate power-supply voltage and higher-speed response to the sudden load dumps that can be encountered in high-speed digital processing systems.

Automotive DMOS microstepping driver IC with built-in translator

31 October 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3980 from Allegro MicroSystems is a complete DMOS microstepping motor driver integrated circuit with a built-in translator for easy operation. The new device is designed to operate bipolar stepper motors in full, half, eighth and sixteenth step modes, at up to 35 V and ±1 A, respectively, making it suitable for automotive stepper applications such as engine management and headlamp positioning.

Temperature-compensated Darlington transistors for audio applications

17 October 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The Sanken SAP 16 Series, a range of 150 W bipolar temperature-compensated Darlington transistors with built-in emitter resistors, is now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe. Designed for audio applications, the new devices use Sanken's LEXAM (Legend of Excellent Audio MOSFET) technology to offer highly accurate and responsive temperature compensation through the use of an on-chip diode. Both n- and p-type transistors are available.

Fully Integrated ±50 A Isolated Current Sensor for Allegro

16 October 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a fully integrated ±50 A isolated current sensor, the ACS750(S/L)CA-050. This device joins the 75 A ACS750(S/L)CA-075 and 100 A ACS750(S/E)CA-100 in Allegro's expanding family of revolutionary open-loop Hall-effect-based current sensors. The use of a programmable linear Hall-effect device provides accuracy and linearity as well as very low thermal drift. The small electromechanical package is an innovative step toward a fully integrated current sensing solution.

Automotive power MOSFET half-bridge controller IC

09 October 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The A3946, new from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, is a half-bridge power control IC designed specifically for applications that require high-power unidirectional DC motors and other inductive loads. The A3946 incorporates two high-current gate-drive outputs capable of driving a wide range of power N-channel MOSFETs. The high-side gate driver switches an N-channel MOSFET which controls current to the load, while the low-side gate driver switches an N-channel MOSFET as a synchronous rectifier.

Two-phase unipolar microstepping motor drivers with built-in sequencing

03 October 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, the SLA706xM Series is a new family of unipolar microstepping two-phase constant-current motor driver ICs with built-in sequencing capabilities. The new devices provide a complete unipolar microstepping motor driver solution, including a built-in translator designed to operate unipolar stepper motors with a simple step input. There is no need for phase-sequence tables, high-frequency control lines, or complex interfaces to program.

8-channel source drivers for interfacing between logic circuitry and power devices

19 September 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., New from Allegro MicroSystems, the UDN2987A and UDN2987LW are 8-channel source driver integrated circuits designed to act as an interface between standard low-level logic and power devices such as relays, motors, solenoids, LEDs, and incandescent lamps. Featuring overcurrent protection on each of the eight sourcing outputs, the devices include thermal shutdown and output transient protection/clamp diodes for use with sustaining voltages of up to 35 V.

Digital H-bridge power amplifier IC

12 September 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new Sanken SLA5507M, now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, is a high-speed digital H-bridge power amplifier integrated circuit designed for use in high-quality audio systems. Originally developed for applications involving the Mitsubishi LSIM65817AFP audio processor, the new device is based on a hybrid power integrated circuit featuring a power MOS output drive stage for the switching audio power amplifier.

Power MOSFET controller IC for 42 V automotive systems

04 September 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3925 power MOSFET controller IC from Allegro MicroSystems is designed for use in 42 V automotive applications involving high-power motors. The new device provides six high-current gate-drive outputs capable of driving a wide range of power N-channel MOSFETs. Bootstrap capacitors are utilised to provide a steady supply voltage over a varying battery input range: a key requirement in automotive systems.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Announces New Micropower Omnipolar Digital Hall-Effect Switches

25 August 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces a new family of micropower omnipolar digital switches consisting of ultra-sensitive, pole-independent Hall-effect switches with a latched digital output.

Temperature compensated audio transistors

21 August 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new Sanken SAPM01 Series of temperature-compensated audio transistors are now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe. The 150 V p-type and n-type devices use Sanken's LEXAM (Legend of Excellent Audio MOSFET) technology to offer highly accurate and responsive temperature compensation through the use of an on-chip diode.

Allegro MicroSystems Inc. Sensor Business Unit to Relocate to Manchester, NH Worcester, MA

20 August 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of semiconductors, has reached agreement with Brady Sullivan Properties to lease an existing 108,500 square foot facility, built on 26 acres and adjacent to the recently expanded Manchester, NH Municipal Airport.

Two-Phase Unipolar Microstepping Motor Driver Family

15 August 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces a new family of Sanken unipolar microstepping two-phase constant-current motor driver ICs with built-in sequencer. The SLA706xM series is a complete unipolar microstepping motor driver family with built-in translator designed to operate unipolar stepper motors with a simple step input. There is no need for phase-sequence tables, high-frequency control lines, or complex interfaces to program.

High-voltage 3-phase motor driver IC

06 August 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The Sanken SLA6800 Series is a family of compact, high-voltage (up to 600 V) intelligent power modules designed for use in 3-phase motor drive invertor circuits for the control of domestic appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines or air-conditioning systems.

Half-Bridge Pre-Driver IC Targeted at High-Power Automotive and Industrial Loads

27 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3946, a new power-MOSFET pre-driver IC designed to drive brush DC motors, three-phase brushless DC motors (BLDC), switched reluctance motors, and other large inductive loads. With features such as fault reporting, extended operating voltages (7 V to 60 V), and extended temperature ratings (-40°C to +135°C), the A3946 becomes a perfect choice for driving automotive loads.

High-power DC motor driver for automotive applications

23 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3940 H-bridge power MOSFET controller from Allegro MicroSystems is designed specifically for driving high-power DC motors in automotive applications. The new device incorporates four high-current gate-drive outputs capable of driving a wide range of power N-channel MOSFETs.

High-side driver IC for linear current control

16 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, the Sanken SPF5014 is a single high-side driver integrated circuit designed to provide linear current control of solenoids in microcontroller-based industrial applications. The device incorporates the high-side switch function, a current-sense resistor, a current monitor output, and a sample-and-hold function.

LIN Bus transceiver features integrated voltage regulator

09 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A8421 from Allegro MicroSystems is a LIN Bus transceiver IC featuring an integrated voltage regulator circuit. The new device provides all the physical interface requirements of the LIN (Local Interconnect Network) Bus, but also provides a regulated 5 V output with a current limit of more than 50 mA - sufficient to power a microcontroller handling the LIN slave/node protocol.

Omnipolar Hall-effect devices for reed-switch replacement

03 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., A new family of Hall-effect switch ICs from Allegro MicroSystems can act as high-reliability replacements for reed switches in automotive and other demanding applications. The new A3245/6 devices are omnipolar, ultra-sensitive Hall-effect switches with digital outputs.

Micropower omnipolar digital Hall-effect switches

02 July 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has introduced a new family of micropower omnipolar digital switches consisting of ultra-sensitive, pole-independent Hall-effect switches with a latched digital output.

IGBT array for 3-phase motor invertors

25 June 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new SLA5200 Series from Sanken Electric is a 600 V, 15 A IGBT/FRD array for use in 3-phase motor invertors in domestic appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators.

Sanken adds temperature compensation to MOSFETs to boost audio performance

17 June 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., A new class of MOSFETs (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors) with built-in temperature compensation for enhanced audio performance has been developed by Sanken Electric in conjunction with the Pioneer Corporation.

LNB supply and control voltage regulator ICs

11 June 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A8285 and A8287 integrated circuits from Allegro MicroSystems Europe are supply and control voltage regulators designed for use in the LNB (low-noise block) section of analogue and digital satellite receivers, set-top boxes and internal satellite tuners.

Gear-tooth sensor is ideal for automotive ABS and transmission applications

05 June 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new ATS645 from Allegro MicroSystems is a differential Hall-effect gear-tooth sensor that is able to sense very small symmetrical tooth geometries with high reliability in applications such as automotive ABS and transmission systems.

PWM motor control circuit for DC motors

05 June 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Designed for pulse-width modulated (PWM) current control of DC motors, the new A3948 integrated circuit from Allegro MicroSystems can deliver a continuous output current of up to ±1.5 A and an operating voltage up to 50 V. The new device features internal fixed off-time PWM current-control timing circuitry that can be programmed via a serial interface to operate in slow, fast, and mixed current-decay modes.

Hall-effect sensor package provides integrated solution in minimum space

28 May 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has developed a new compact package which integrates a Hall-effect sensor IC with a back-biasing magnet to achieve high airgap performance and meet restrictive space requirement.

Allegro MicroSystems integrates voltage regulators into Lin Bus transceivers

20 May 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., A family of LIN Bus transceivers with integrated voltage regulators has been developed by Allegro MicroSystems. The LIN (Local Interconnect Network) Bus is a low-cost serial communications bus based on an open standard developed by a consortium of organisations in the automotive sector.

Unipolar stepper-motor translator/driver circuit

13 May 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new SLA7051M from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is the first in a family of constant-current, two-phase unipolar stepper-motor driver integrated circuits with built-in translator circuitry for ease of operation in office automation or industrial applications.

Full-Bridge Pre-Driver IC Targeted at High Power Automotive and Industrial Motors

28 April 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3940, a new power MOSFET pre-driver IC for large brush DC motors. Targeted at the automotive and industrial markets, the A3940 provides four high-current gate-drive outputs capable of driving a wide range of power N-Channel MOSFETs.

Latched constant-current LED drivers

23 April 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A6275EA and A6275ELW from Allegro MicroSystems are a range of 8-bit serial-input latch constant-current LED driver integrated circuits. Each BiCMOS device includes an 8-bit CMOS shift register, accompanying data latches, and eight n-p-n constant-current sink drivers. The CMOS shift register and latches allow direct interfacing with microprocessor-based systems.

Allegro demonstrates high-current inverter modules for white-goods applications

01 April 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., At the 2003 PCIM Exhibition, Allegro MicroSystems Europe will present a new family of miniature high-current motor drive inverter modules aimed at providing energy and power savings in white-goods applications.

Self-calibrating gear-tooth sensor with 9-bit signal capture

27 March 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has introduced a new self-calibrating gear-tooth sensor with 9-bit signal capture. The new ATS672LSB features tight timing accuracy over temperature, true zero-speed operation, true power-on sensing and airgap-independent switch points. It will operate down to 3.3 V, and its high vibration immunity and temperature capability make it ideally suited to automotive applications.

Integrated Solution Drives Wide Range of N-Channel MOSFETs

20 March 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces a new three-phase power MOSFET controller with high-current gate drive capability that drives a wide range of power discrete n-channel MOSFETs and supports motor supply voltages from 12 V to 50 V. The A3938 integrates a bootstrapped high-side driver to minimize the external component count required to drive the n-channel MOSFETs.

Pennsylvania Development Center Opened

11 March 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of semiconductor products, today announced the opening of a 15,000 square foot design center in Warminster, PA. Allegro's new Pennsylvania Development Center is an extension to the corporate engineering team with the primary purpose of design and development of next generation semiconductor integrated circuits and processes.

8-bit addressable DMOS power driver ICs

07 March 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A6259KA and A6259LKW integrated circuits from Allegro MicroSystems each combine a 3-to-8-line CMOS decoder circuit and accompanying data latches, control circuitry, and DMOS outputs in a multi-functional power driver. The devices are capable of storing single-line data in the addressable latches, or can be used as decoders or demultiplexers. Driver applications include relays, solenoids, and other medium-current or high-voltage peripheral power loads.

Able to Sense Tiny Symmetrical Tooth Geometries with High Reliability

28 February 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the next generation differential digital gear tooth sensor with a two-wire back-biased package, peak detecting algorithms and automatic gain control. The ATS645 provides a user-friendly solution for true zero-speed gear tooth sensing in two wire applications by providing digital detection of gear tooth edges. The ATS645 is a highly reliable single chip sensing IC solution.

True zero-speed, Hall-effect adaptive gear-tooth sensor

11 February 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new ATS665LSG from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is an adaptive Hall-effect sensor assembly that offers true zero-speed operation in digital gear-tooth-sensing applications. The device incorporates a Hall-effect sensor integrated circuit and a magnet, which together are packaged in an optimal configuration for applications such as speed sensing in automotive transmissions where sensor repeatability and timing accuracy are important.

Low-cost microstepping motor driver IC with built-in translator

20 January 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3967 from Allegro MicroSystems is a low-cost stepper-motor driver IC that uses Allegro's EasyStepper translator technology to provide microstepping (one-eighth step) operation for office automation, industrial and medical applications.

Allegro MicroSystems Completes Closure of Willow Grove, PA Wafer Fab and Sale of Facility

15 January 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of semiconductor products, today announced the closure of the wafer fab and completion of the sale of its 250,000 square foot facility in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania for an undisclosed amount. The buyer will use the facility for purposes unrelated to the semiconductor industry. On October 1, 2001, Allegro announced that production at the Willow Grove wafer fab would transfer to Allegro's wafer fab in Worcester, MA. This decision is consistent with Allegro's strategy of increasing manufacturing flexibility in support of future growth.

New Sanken Unipolar Stepper-Motor Translator/PWM Driver

13 January 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the first part in a family of constant current, two-phase unipolar stepper motor driver ICs with built-in translator for easy operation. By simply inputting one pulse on the step input, the motor will take one step. There are no phase sequence tables, high frequency control lines or complex interfaces to program.

Integrated Solution Drives a Wide Range of High Power N-Channel MOSFETs

06 January 2003 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces a new three-phase power MOSFET controller with high-current gate drive capability that drives a wide range of power discrete N-Channel MOSFETs and supports motor supply voltages from 12 V to 50 V.

Stepper motor controller IC for minimal power consumption

27 November 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., New from Allegro MicroSystems, the A3965 is a motor-control integrated circuit for the pulse-width-modulated (PWM) current control of low voltage stepper motors. The A3965S is a DMOS dual full-bridge driver, and is capable of output currents to ±500 mA and operating voltages to 20 V. It is particularly suited to low-power or battery-operated motors where minimal power consumption is desired.

New Low Cost Microstepping Motor Driver IC With Translator for Allegro

12 November 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces a new low-cost microstepping motor driver IC that uses the Allegro translator for microstepping (one-eighth step) operation. The A3967 complements the Allegro stepper motor product line by adding to the family a lower cost IC targeted at bipolar stepper motors that run up to 750 mA. The interface reduces the number of control lines from as many as eight lines down to two (STEP and DIRECTION)!

Three Phase Pre-Drive IC Targeted at High Power Automotive & Industrial Motors

30 October 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A3935, a new power MOSFET pre-driver IC for large three-phase brushless DC (BLDC) motors. The IC has been designed to accommodate the demanding needs of the Automotive and Industrial/Factory Automation markets. With maximum operating temperature specifications to +135°C the A3935 is designed to operate in the harsh under-hood environment of automotive applications such as engine cooling and electronic power steering.

Automotive power MOSFET controller IC

30 October 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3935 power MOSFET controller IC from Allegro MicroSystems is designed specifically for automotive applications involving the control of high-power motors. The A3935 provides six high-current gate-drive outputs capable of driving a wide range of power n-channel MOSFETs.

Serial input latched source driver IC

10 October 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A6818 driver integrated circuit from Allegro MicroSystems uses the company's DABiC-IV (digital/analogue/bipolar fourth-generation) integrated-circuit process to combine a 32-bit CMOS shift register, accompanying data latches and control circuitry with bipolar sourcing outputs and p-n-p active pull-down devices.

Simplify Manufacturing with a Precise and Economical Solution for Current Sensing

30 September 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a fully integrated ±100 A open loop current sensor. This is a revolutionary step involving the continued use of linear Hall-effect sensor devices in current sensing applications. The use of a programmable linear Hall-effect device provides for improved accuracy and linearity as well as very low thermal drift.

Motor controller IC with built-in drivers

19 September 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3936 from Allegro MicroSystems is an advanced 3-phase brushless DC motor controller/driver IC featuring 3 A DMOS outputs and on-chip commutation logic. The use of integrated 3 A, 50 V DMOS drivers provides a smaller and more cost-effective 3-phase motion control solution to the pulse-width modulated (PWM) current control of three-phase brushless DC motors.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Announces a New DMOS Full-Bridge Motor Driver IC

19 August 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the introduction of a new dual full-bridge PWM motor driver IC. The A3965 incorporates two DMOS H-bridges, capable of output currents to ±500 mA and motor supply operating voltages of 6 V to 20 V. The DMOS output transistors feature a low RDS(ON) rating for low power dissipation.

Current sensor is rated at up to 75 A

24 July 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems has developed a novel design of current sensor based on a precision linear Hall-effect integrated circuit coupled with a magnetic circuit optimised to maximise device sensitivity. The entire assembly is housed in a new package configuration for easy mounting and implementation in automotive or industrial applications.

Next Generation Gear-Tooth Speed Sensor for Allegro

21 May 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of its next generation true zero speed, high accuracy, gear-tooth speed sensor. This new sensor is an optimized Hall IC and magnet configured in a single over-molded package that provides a user-friendly solution.

Monolithic Hall-effect gear-tooth sensor IC

16 May 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., The new A3064LKA from Allegro MicroSystems is an AC-coupled Hall-effect gear-tooth sensor implemented as a monolithic integrated circuit. The new device switches in response to changing differential magnetic fields created by moving ferrous targets. It is ideally suited to use in non-zero-speed, gear-tooth-based sensing of speed, position, and timing in automotive applications such as anti-lock braking systems, transmissions, and crankshafts.

Allegro's Next Generation Hall-Effect Packaging Technology

06 May 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of its next generation Hall-effect sensor packaging technology. The new SE, SG and SH packages consist of a magnet and a Hall-effect IC over-molded in a single step, eliminating the presence of air voids that can be problematic during potting or over-molding. The result is a smaller, user-friendly, highly accurate and reliable packaging system.

Allegro MicroSystems expands European IC Design Centre in Scotland

22 April 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., Allegro MicroSystems Inc. has expanded its European integrated-circuit design operations by moving into a new 4700 square feet centre at Musselburgh, near Edinburgh in Scotland.

Dual full-bridge motor driver ICs feature brake function

17 April 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc., New from Allegro MicroSystems Europe, the A3968 Series is a range of dual full-bridge PWM motor driver integrated circuits featuring a brake function. Each device is designed to control two DC motors bidirectionally, and includes two H-bridges capable of continuous output currents of ±650 mA and operating voltages to 30 V.