Toshiba Introduces Stepper Motor Driver with Phase Input Interface for Industrial Systems

Toshiba has introduced the TB67S531FTG, a constant-current driver IC for two-phase bipolar stepper motors. Rated for motor voltages up to 40 V and output currents up to 2.0 A, the device is intended for industrial, commercial, and office equipment including sewing machines, surveillance cameras, printers, and scanners.

The main change from many conventional stepper motor drivers is the control interface. Instead of using step and direction inputs, the TB67S531FTG uses phase inputs to control current in each motor winding. Toshiba says the interface is less susceptible to electrical noise, reducing the chance of unintended motor movement in industrial environments.

Phase Input Interface

The TB67S531FTG has been developed for applications where reliable motor positioning is required despite the presence of electrical noise. By driving each motor phase directly through the phase input interface, the device is designed to avoid unintended step transitions that can cause a stepper motor to lose position. Toshiba positions this approach for industrial equipment where nearby motors, relays, inverters, and other switching devices can introduce electrical interference.

Integrated Motor Driver

The driver supports motor voltages up to 40 V and output currents of up to 2.0 A. Current sensing for constant-current control and the charge pump used to drive the H-bridge output stage are integrated into the device, reducing the number of external components required around the motor driver. Toshiba also specifies a typical on-resistance of 0.8 Ω, helping to reduce power dissipation during operation. The TB67S531FTG is supplied in a compact 5.0 mm × 5.0 mm QFN32 package.

Excitation Modes and Protection

The driver supports full-step, half-step, and quarter-step excitation modes, allowing the drive method to be selected according to application requirements.

Integrated protection features include thermal shutdown, over-current detection, and under-voltage lockout.

Learn more and read the original announcement at the Toshiba Electronics website.

Technology Overview

The Toshiba TB67S531FTG is a constant-current driver IC for two-phase bipolar stepper motors. The device combines a phase input control interface with integrated current sensing and charge pump circuitry, supporting motor voltages up to 40 V and output currents of up to 2.0 A in industrial motion-control applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is different about the TB67S531FTG?

The driver uses a phase input interface instead of a conventional step and direction interface, with the aim of improving noise immunity in industrial environments.

What motor ratings does it support?

The TB67S531FTG supports motor voltages up to 40 V and output currents of up to 2.0 A.

Which applications is it designed for?

Toshiba lists industrial equipment, surveillance cameras, printers, scanners, sewing machines, and other systems using two-phase bipolar stepper motors.