ROHM has introduced the BD67871MWV-Z, a three-phase brushless DC motor gate driver designed for medium-voltage applications (12 to 48V systems). By integrating ROHM’s proprietary TriC3 gate drive technology, the device significantly reduces FET switching losses while maintaining low EMI – an achievement that traditionally posed a trade-off in motor driver ICs.
Motors account for nearly 60% of global electricity consumption, making control technology that enhances energy efficiency increasingly vital. In 12V to 48V motor drive applications, the conventional approach has been a simple configuration in which an MCU controls three gate drivers. However, rising demands for higher efficiency and precise control have accelerated the adoption of solutions that combine an MCU with an integrated three-phase motor driver. A persistent technical challenge in such drivers has been balancing reduced power consumption with minimised noise and EMI.
The BD67871MWV-Z addresses this challenge through ROHM’s proprietary Active Gate Drive technology, TriC3. This system rapidly senses voltage information from external power FETs and adjusts gate drive current in real time. As a result, FET switching losses – and the associated heat generation – are reduced, while ringing is suppressed to achieve low EMI.
Testing has demonstrated that TriC3 reduces FET heat generation by approximately 35% compared to ROHM’s conventional constant-current drive products, while maintaining equivalent EMI levels. The BD67871MWV-Z also adopts the widely used UQFN28 package and pin layout, simplifying circuit modifications and new designs for medium-voltage industrial equipment applications.
Mass production of the BD67871MWV-Z began in September 2025. The product, along with its evaluation board (BD67871MWV-EVK-003), is available for purchase through online distributors such as DigiKey and Mouser Electronics.
In addition to this model, ROHM offers general-purpose motor drivers (BD67870MWV-Z and BD67872MWV-Z) with the same package and pin configuration, designed for constant-voltage drive. This lineup ranges from general-purpose types to advanced models featuring TriC3, supporting a wide variety of applications and use cases. ROHM remains committed to improving motor efficiency, enhancing application functionality, and reducing power consumption.
Application Examples
- Industrial equipment: motors for electric drills/drivers and industrial fans
- Consumer appliances: motors used in vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, air conditioners, ventilation fans, and e-bikes (electric-assist sports bicycles)
