Microchip to conduct hands-on workshop on latest motor-control solutions

Microchip Technology has announced two hands-on workshop series that provide participants hands-on experience with the latest motor-control solutions and Microchip's tools. One workshop series is focused on sensorless Brushless DC (BLDC) motors, while the other is on sensorless Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSMs).

Registration information can be found online at http://www.microchip.com/motorworkshops.

"We are pleased to offer this opportunity for hands-on motor control training, featuring our latest boards and algorithms," said Ken Pye vice president of worldwide applications engineering for Microchip. "I can think of no faster way to jumpstart a design project, lower cost or improve product specifications, which is all critical in today's competitive environment."

The Sensorless BLDC Control With Back-EMF Filtering Using a Majority Function Workshop supports the industry-workhorse BLDC motor. This workshop features the sensorless majority function algorithm, which digitally filters the Back-Electromotive Force (BEMF) generated by the non-commutated windings to calculate rotor position, eliminating the need for comparators and position sensors. An in-depth analysis of Microchip's BLDC Motor Control algorithms and an overview of the dsPIC Digital Signal Controller (DSC) motor-control peripherals is also provided. Finally, attendees will use the new Real-Time Data Monitor (RTDM) integrated into Microchip's MPLAB Integrated Development Environment to modify algorithms and control the motor via a graphical interface.

Microchip incorporates the new dsPIC33F DSC-based dsPICDEMTM MCLV Development Board as this workshop's learning vehicle.

The Sensorless Field Oriented Control for PMSM Motors Workshop supports the rapidly advancing adoption of PMSM motors, which are renowned for their power efficiency, small size and high performance at low motor speeds. This motor type is gaining widespread attention as cost-sensitive applications migrate from brushed DC motors to achieve smaller size, improved efficiency and longer life. Motors driving hydraulics or gears, when replaced with direct-drive PMSM motors, report better performance and efficiency at reduced weight and size. Microchip's PMSM Workshop features the Field-Oriented Control (FOC) algorithm, which is considered a top-performing method for maximizing efficiency and performance. This workshop is designed to guide attendees through PMSM construction and its control. Through practical exercises, attendees gain familiarity with Microchip tools and the sensorless FOC algorithm for PMSM motors. Microchip's factory applications engineers are scheduled to conduct the March workshops for PMSMs.

The fee for each workshop is US$99. Its a six hour course. Tools are provided to attendees for the duration of the workshop, and discounts for purchasing the tools used in the workshop will be available to attendees. Due to the hands-on nature of the workshop, space is limited. The workshops will be held as follows:

BLDC Workshops (Date and place)
3/4 - Southern Calif.
3/12 - Tulsa
3/25 - Toronto
5/6 - Boston
5/7 - Cleveland
5/13 - Baltimore
5/28 - San Jose
6/17 - Detroit

PMSM Workshops (Date and place)
3/17 - Houston
3/18 - San Jose
3/19 - Southern Calif.
3/24 - Chicago
3/25 - Boston
3/26 - Toronto

To sign up for a workshop visit: http://www.microchip.com/motorworkshops.