STMicroelectronics Introduces STSPIN32F0B: Space‑Saving, One‑Shunt BLDC Motor Controller for Battery‑Powered Tools

STMicroelectronics has expanded its STSPIN32 programmable motor controller family with the STSPIN32F0B system‑in‑package (SiP), a cost‑effective solution that uses a single‑op amp for one‑shunt current sensing. The new controller is tailored for the growing market of battery‑operated power tools.

The SiP eliminates the need for individual 3‑phase BLDC coil‑current sense resistors, freeing up valuable I/O pins for additional user features. It houses a 48 MHz STM32F031x6 microcontroller that runs a robust 6‑step motor‑control algorithm while offering application‑level functions. With 20 GPIO pins, the STM32 exposes up to five general‑purpose timers, a 12‑bit ADC, a built‑in temperature sensor, and standard I²C, UART, and SPI interfaces.

A triple half‑bridge gate driver provides up to 600 mA per channel to drive external MOSFETs, powering the BLDC motor efficiently. Power is supplied by a 3.3 V DC/DC buck converter and a 12 V low‑dropout regulator, reducing bill‑of‑materials and improving overall system efficiency.

Integrated safety features—bootstrap diodes, real‑time programmable over‑current protection, cross‑conduction/shoot‑through prevention, under‑voltage lockout on all supplies, and over‑temperature protection—ensure reliable operation even in demanding industrial environments.

ST delivers ready‑to‑use 6‑step motor‑control algorithms for both sensored and sensorless BLDC control, complemented by a complete set of hardware, software, and firmware tools that streamline new‑product development. The STM32 bootloader enables Over‑The‑Air firmware updates, enhancing flexibility and lowering total cost of ownership.

With an extended supply‑voltage range of 45 V down to 6.7 V, the STSPIN32F0B fits a wide array of products, including portable devices powered by as few as two Li‑Po cells. A standby mode deactivates all circuitry except the DC‑DC converter, conserving power when the motor is idle and maximizing battery runtime.

The STSPIN32F0B is now in production and available in a compact 7 × 7 mm QFN package.