Introduction
Brushless DC (BLDC) motors first appeared in the early 1960s but have gained traction in recent years
because they provide new solutions to old motor and motor control challenges. Developments in high-
strength magnets, digital signal processing, and advanced switching capabilities have increased the
versatility of BLDC motors, especially in applications that benefit from adjustable speeds, high speeds,
low noise, and smooth operation at low speeds. BLDC motors are becoming increasingly common in
household appliances, power tools, robotics, drones, automotive devices, and computer peripherals.
At the core of BLDC efficiency is commutation—the process of switching DC motor phase currents
and thus changing magnetic fields to produce constant torque in one direction. BLDC motors use
software and electrical switch circuits for these functions instead of metal brushes and a mechanical
commutator, as found in brushed DC motors. Electrical commutation results in better speed versus
torque characteristics at the same or smaller sizes for design engineers as well as dynamic control of
acceleration, speed, and torque for consumers.
This ebook explores BLDC function and operation, controllers and drivers, design, costs, and
manufacturer characteristics.
All the best,
David Rogelberg
Editor
Mighty Guides, Inc.
I 516.840.0244 I 10409 Pacific Palisades Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89144 I © 2021 Mighty Guides, Inc.
www.mightyguides.com
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Renesas Electronics Corporation
delivers trusted embedded
design innovation with complete
semiconductor solutions that enable
billions of connected, intelligent
devices to enhance the way people
work and live. A global leader in
microcontrollers, analog, power, and
SoC products, Renesas provides
comprehensive solutions for a broad
range of automotive, industrial,
infrastructure, and IoT applications
that help shape a limitless future.
Renesas motor control solutions
support the entire development
process with a product portfolio
particularly suitable for motor
control, development kits that can be
used as reference designs, as well
as a complete suite of software and
tools.
