Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage TC78B015AFTG,EL

Overview

TC78B015AFTG from Toshiba is a three-phase brushless DC motor driver IC with 150-degree trapezoidal PWM chopper control, Hall-sensor interface (1-sensor), 3 A peak output current, 6–30 V motor supply range, and integrated soft switching, lead angle control, and lock detection. It enables precise speed regulation in compact BLDC fan and pump modules.

For engineers reviewing the TC78B015AFTG datasheet, TC78B015AFTG pinout, TC78B015AFTG application, or TC78B015AFTG equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1-sensor Hall drive architecture, selectable PWM frequency (50–200 kHz), adjustable minimum duty, auto/external lead angle (0–58°), and integrated ISD/TSD/UVLO protection - all in a thermally enhanced 36-pin P-WQFN package.

Technical Context

The TC78B015AFTG implements a 150-degree commutation algorithm synchronized to Hall sensor inputs, supporting both auto-lead-angle (frequency-dependent) and externally voltage-programmed lead angle (32-step, 0–58.125°). Its startup sequence includes configurable DC excitation and forced commutation phases, each timed via external capacitors on TIP and TSTEP pins.

It integrates dual-path control logic: analog/PWM/duty-mode speed command input (via TSP/VSP with SEL_SP), independent VST-based duty control for startup modes, and FG_OUT with programmable division (1/3 to 1 pulse per electrical angle). Protection includes overcurrent detection (ISD, 4.5 A typ.), thermal shutdown (TSD, 165°C typ.), and UVLO (5.3 V restart).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Packaged in a 5 mm × 5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch P-WQFN36 with exposed E-PAD (thermally connected to die backside and electrically tied to GND). Requires soldering E-PAD to large GND copper pour for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar three-phase BLDC motor driver applications.

Compared with MP6532DS-LF-Z and DRV10983ZRTVT, the TC78B015AFTG uniquely combines 1-sensor Hall support, auto/external lead angle control, and multi-ratio FG output in a single 36-pin WQFN - making it optimal for mid-power, high-diagnostic BLDC systems where sensor integration and startup reliability are critical.

Availability

TC78B015AFTG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for computer cooling, automotive HVAC, industrial pump, and medical ventilator applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q200-aligned reliability.

Supply support for TC78B015AFTG includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation designs high-performance semiconductor solutions for motor control, power management, and interface applications, with global manufacturing and quality certification.

The TC78B015AFTG belongs to Toshiba's BLDC motor driver IC family, engineered specifically for cost-effective, sensor-based speed control in compact, thermally constrained systems such as cooling fans and small pumps.

FAQ

What is the maximum motor supply voltage supported by the TC78B015AFTG?

The TC78B015AFTG supports an absolute maximum motor supply voltage (VM) of 36 V, with a recommended operating range of 6–30 V. Exceeding 36 V risks permanent damage. The UVLO circuit disables operation below 5.0 V and re-enables at 5.3 V, ensuring clean startup. For reliable 24 V system operation, use a 30 V-rated input capacitor and verify transient margins per IEC 61000-4-4.

How does the TC78B015AFTG handle motor startup under load?

The TC78B015AFTG uses a configurable three-stage startup: DC excitation (timed by TIP capacitor), forced commutation (frequency set by FST), then 150-degree PWM drive. This sequence ensures torque buildup before synchronization, preventing stall. In the TC78B015AFTG, TIP = 0.01 μF yields ~0.1 s excitation time, and FST voltage selects commutation frequencies from −1.6 to −6.4 Hz - critical for high-inertia loads like centrifugal pumps.

Can the TC78B015AFTG drive a BLDC motor without external Hall sensors?

No - the TC78B015AFTG requires a Hall sensor input (U-phase only) for commutation timing and cannot operate sensorlessly. It integrates a Hall amplifier for direct connection to Hall elements or ICs, but lacks back-EMF detection circuitry. For sensorless operation, consider alternatives like the Toshiba TB67B000AHG or STSPIN32F0A, which implement observer-based algorithms.

What is the purpose of the VREG pin on the TC78B015AFTG?

The VREG pin on the TC78B015AFTG delivers a regulated 5.0 V (±0.3 V) output capable of sourcing up to 40 mA. It powers external Hall ICs, level shifters, or microcontroller interfaces. A 0.1 μF ceramic capacitor between VREG and SGND is mandatory for stability. Do not load VREG beyond 40 mA or short it - doing so may disrupt internal biasing and cause erratic FG_OUT or LD_OUT behavior in the TC78B015AFTG.

How is motor lock detection configured and signaled in the TC78B015AFTG?

Motor lock detection in the TC78B015AFTG is enabled via the SEL_LD pin: setting SEL_LD = 0 configures Ton = 0.5 s and Toff = 5 s. During lock, LD_OUT asserts low; it returns high only after successful transition to 150-degree PWM drive. To clear a lock fault, apply 0% duty (TSP/VSP ≤ 0.625 V) for ≥2 ms. The TC78B015AFTG also disables lock detection entirely when SEL_LD = 3 - useful for applications with intermittent position signals.