Melexis unveils the MLX90418, an all-in-one 1-coil brushless DC (BLDC) fan driver. This IC solution is pioneering a code-free single-coil fan driver able to support server-specific functions such as power-loss braking and AC power-loss management. Targeting the ever-expanding server market, the MLX90418 represents a highly effective 1-coil solution that reduces Bill of Material (BoM) costs by up to 25% compared to existing three-phase BLDC fans.

The number of servers continues to increase to meet the demands for data storage and processing power, including cloud services and AI. This market has a growing need for dependable cooling solutions that fulfill the performance requirements at the right cost.

Single-coil solutions are the standard for server cooling fans up to 15 W. For higher power fans either MCU-based 1-coil, or 3-phase solutions are considered. With the release of the MLX90418, 1-coil solutions are extended up to 30 W in 4 cm and 6 cm server fans. The code-free plug-and-play functionality, avoids the need for software validation of MCU-based solutions, freeing up key engineering resources for realizing more projects in less time and enabling faster production ramp-up. The MLX90418 covers demanding server application requirements, such as AC power loss handling. Additionally, its power loss braking (PLB) capability with 8 A braking current, allows fast and safe servicing, and avoids the negative impact on the thermal efficiency of the server cooling system due to pressure bleeding, in case of a malfunctioning fan.

The latest 30 W 4028 single fan solutions offer similar pressure/flow performance compared to legacy 4056 twin fans of a similar power rating, reducing footprint and system cost. With its high speed and low vibration operation, the MLX90418 is the ideal fit to operate such 30 W fans with speeds up to 40k m-RPM.

Building on Melexis’ automotive design and production quality standards, the MLX90418 offers a reliable solution for long-lifetime applications, ideal for low-maintenance server cooling applications.

“The MLX90418 is a plug-and-play solution that addresses the technical requirements of modern data center server cooling systems, providing efficiency, performance, and long-term reliability,” said Xuanhong Ou, Marketing Manager at Melexis. “With this IC we offer the possibility to replace the more expensive three-phase solutions, and accelerate the transition from twin fan to single fan, offering significantly lower BoM costs, with less engineering time.”