Melexis Launches Smaller, Fully Integrated LIN Driver IC for Relay-Controlled Window Lifters

Melexis Launches Smaller, Fully Integrated LIN Driver IC for Relay-Controlled Window Lifters

Provides 48 KB of memory in a compact QFN24 package (4 mm × 4 mm) for driving cost-effective relay-controlled DC motor applications

October 21, 2022, Tessenderlo, Belgium - Melexis, a global microelectronics engineering company, today announced the launch of the new LIN pre-driver chip MLX81160 for relay-controlled DC motor applications. The chip is the latest member of Melexis' third-generation compatible embedded motor driver chip series, combining high power, compact design and high cost performance. The product provides 48 KB of memory (16 KB ROM for built-in LIN protocol and 32 KB flash for application software), which is ideal for applications such as window regulators.

To strengthen its position in motor drive applications that enhance automotive comfort, Melexis has launched the LIN-based pre-driver chip MLX81160. The chip uses high-voltage silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology and can show excellent robustness in 12 V and 24 V applications.

The device is the successor to the MLX81150 LIN slave from Melexis, which is widely used for relay and DC motor control. Applications include window lifts and sunroof regulators with relay-controlled DC motors, and small DC motors with external PN-MOSFET power regulation.

The MLX81160 meets the AEC-Q100 standard and integrates all the necessary functional elements required for motor driving in a single chip, including a LIN interface, an embedded microcontroller unit, 6 PWM drivers, 3 high-voltage I/Os, etc.

The additional I/O is used to connect a dedicated 4-wire latch to achieve motor indexing. Melexis will soon launch a new 4-wire latch MLX92352, whose innovative features will greatly enhance application flexibility. Together with the MLX81160, it will form a complete sensing and drive solution.

The MLX81160 is available in a compact 4 mm × 4 mm QFN24 package. When used in advanced mechatronics applications, the chip can be integrated into extremely compact PCBs.

In addition to the increased performance, lower costs and extremely small size, the MLX81160 offers several other important advantages , such as faster programming (2.5 seconds for 32 KB Flash) and functional safety compliance up to ASIL B. In addition, dual current sensing supports ripple counting and can drive multiple DC motors simultaneously.

“The MLX81160 is a cost-effective solution that enables our Tier 1 customers to develop competitive mechatronic systems for their automotive OEM partners. It brings the advantages of digital interfaces to price-sensitive DC motors, such as window lifts in mid-range cars,” said Marc Lambrechts, Product Line Manager for Embedded Motor Driver ICs at Melexis. “Our experienced team of embedded application engineers can fully support customers in getting their projects right the first time and help drive faster project completion.”