Microchip-controlled Fan

The steady flow of "smart" consumer products in the last decade, marching like the brooms in "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" from the movie Fantasia, is a direct outcome of the evolution of microprocessors. Smaller packaging and increased power/complexity in the chips translated into smart car seats and rear view mirrors, intelligent toasters and refrigerators, and exotic interactive kids' toys. Now an electronic brain appears in an OEM component.

NMB Technologies Corp., a supplier of axial cooling fans for a wide range of applications, has introduced their 5910PL series, initially designed for networking and telecom system components such as servers, routers and communications cabinets. The 6.80- x 5.91-in. units, which are just 1-inch thick, sport a built-in microchip that can be programmed to control speed, trigger an alarm for low-speed or locked-rotor events, and provide monitoring of inrush current limit and tachometer output. The microchip also permits interfacing with other peripherals for fan function monitoring and to simplify troubleshooting. By custom-profiling the fan's operation with the chip, both start-up current draw and heat generation can be reduced, increasing the life of the fan. Through the firmware that controls and communicates with the fan, the 5910PL can be used in prototyping applications to determine optimum air flows and demands. It also provides flexibility for design changes in future products.

The 5910PL is offered for 12, 24 and 48 VDC systems. The 13-blade impeller in the tubeaxial design delivers high air flow at low pressures, providing 170 to 290 cfm, depending on the specified model. The brushless DC motor spins on dual ball bearings, and operates at noise levels of under 70 dBA. Operating temperature range is -10° to 70°C.

--RM

For more information: Circle 555 - NMB Technologies, or connect directly to their website via the Online Reader Service Program at http://www.1rs.com/010df-555