MCU software delivers performance levels of FPGA solutions

28th June 2017

Lanna Deamer

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A software called DesignDRIVE Fast Current Loop that makes C2000 microcontrollers (MCUs) the first devices to push current-loop performance to less than 1 microsecond, has been introduced by Texas Instruments. Together, TI's C2000 MCU portfolio and DesignDRIVE software delivers System-on-Chip (SOC) functionality which simplifies drive control system development.

The DesignDRIVE Fast Current Loop software out performs traditional microcontroller (MCU)-based current-loop solutions and can simplify designs by eliminating the Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) typically used for external current-loop control. Fast Current Loop software is a free update available for C2000 controlSUITE software.

TI's DesignDRIVE technology is a unified hardware and software platform that makes it easier for engineers to develop and evaluate solutions for a variety of industrial drive and servo topologies. As a key part of DesignDRIVE solutions, the Fast Current Loop software enables developers to achieve higher control performance while saving valuable board space and simplifying thermal considerations.

Features and benefits of TI's DesignDRIVE Fast Current Loop software

Innovative subcycle Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) update techniques significantly improve control-loop bandwidths to potentially triple the motor torque response.
A novel cycle-scavenging C2000 MCU needs only 460 nanoseconds for field-oriented control processing.
A new complex controller replaces traditional proportional integration control and facilitates greater stability at higher speeds.
Industrial drive systems designed with Fast Current Loop software on a C2000 MCU, like the TMS320F28379, delivers SOC functionality to reduce board space, complexity and overall cost.

Get started today
Developers can get started by downloading TI's free Fast Current Loop software on the DesignDRIVE solutions page. In addition, the C2000 DesignDRIVE development kit for industrial motor control (TMDXIDDK379D) includes the hardware for industrial motor control designs and can support two simultaneous Fast Current Loops as well as DesignDRIVE Position Manager technology.