Renesas Multi-function microcontroller RL78 / G1F adds 20 new members

     Renesas Electronics announces the multi-function microcontroller RL78 / G1F Group Controller (MCU), adding 20 new members to the low-power RL78 family of MCUS. The entire RL78 / G1X series MCU features enhanced peripheral functionality and compatibility, and the new device simplifies sensorless brushless direct current motor (BLDC motor) control to provide precise operation at faster rotation speeds with high precision for energy-efficient appliances and power tools.

     "The increasing demand for high-efficiency consumer and commercial motor drive systems requires complex motor-controlled MCUS to meet higher efficiency, lower cost and smaller space requirements," said Nelson Quintana, Director of marketing, Renesas Electronics USA. "As a global leader in MCUS, we are committed to providing customers with innovative solutions for motor control applications in the home appliance and power tool markets. The new RL78 solution/G1F group addresses technology challenges facing Oems in these markets, enabling them to improve performance, reduce system costs, and also meet power demand. "

     The need to have higher efficiency and lower system costs for electric appliances such as vacuum cleaners, dishwashers and refrigerators, as well as power tools is driving the shift from traditional motors with built-in position sensors to sensorless BLDC motor systems. The new RL78 / G1F MCU integrates a fast 3-phase timer with a dedicated comparator and operational amplifier to guarantee high-speed sensor control. The required sensorless control, including high-speed timer and comparator perimeter function, contributes to the reduction of up to 20 external components and reduces development costs. In addition, Renesas has added an auxiliary timer specified for motor control to better control over a wider range of speeds.