EPC Space has released the EPC7C021, a compact, high-performance evaluation board designed for three-phase motor drive applications in space and other radiation-critical environments. Featuring the company’s radiation-hardened EPC7011L7C eGaN® ICs, the board provides a robust platform for engineers developing systems such as reaction wheels, robotics, ion propulsion, and precision automation.
Measuring just 6.50 x 5.22 inches, the EPC7C021 includes all the features needed to evaluate GaN-based motor drive performance, either as a standalone system or in combination with EPC’s EPC9147A motor controller for closed-loop operation.
Key Technical Features
GaN Half-Bridge Power Stages
Each phase is powered by the EPC7011L7C, a 50 V, radiation-hardened eGaN IC capable of delivering up to 6 A and operating at switching frequencies up to 2 MHz. The ICs offer high efficiency, low switching loss, and proven radiation tolerance for space applications.
Integrated Dead-Time and Protection
The board features user-adjustable dead-time generation, overcurrent protection with a configurable trip point, and temperature sensing on each phase. Power-good indicators and test points simplify troubleshooting and evaluation.
Flexible PWM Input Options
Control signals can be supplied externally via SMA or header connectors, or internally via the EPC9147A daughtercard, supporting both open- and closed-loop control setups.
Monitoring and Feedback
Current and voltage sensing are included on each output phase. Analog outputs provide direct access to key operating parameters, supporting real-time performance evaluation and data acquisition.
Optional Output Filtering
Onboard RC filters can be configured to approximate sine-wave outputs, helping engineers develop motor systems where reduced harmonic content or lower EMI is critical.
Thermal Management
Each power stage includes aluminium nitride (AlN) thermal “helpers” beneath the ICs, improving heat dissipation for higher current handling.
Multiple Bias Rails
The board supports external or onboard generation of 12 V, 5 V, and 3.3 V bias voltages for logic, control, and sensor integration.
Hall Sensor and Encoder Support
The EPC7C021 supports Hall-effect sensor input, enabling rotor position feedback for closed-loop motor control algorithms.
Application Areas
The EPC7C021 is intended for system engineers working in:
- Space-based reaction or momentum wheels
- Ion thruster and propulsion systems
- Robotic actuators and manipulators
- High-reliability industrial or aerospace drive systems
Maurizio Salato, VP of Engineering at EPC Space, stated, “The EPC7C021 helps engineers rapidly evaluate the performance and integration benefits of radiation-hardened GaN in real-world motor control systems. It’s a highly flexible platform that reduces development time in demanding environments.”
Documentation and Design Files
EPC Space provides full support materials, including schematics, layout files, and BOM, to enable fast replication and integration into prototype systems.
Availability
The EPC7C021 is available now through EPC Space and its network of authorised distributors.
About EPC Space
EPC Space is a joint venture between Efficient Power Conversion (EPC) and VPT Inc., focused on delivering radiation-hardened GaN power devices and systems for space and aerospace applications. Leveraging EPC’s expertise in GaN technology and VPT’s heritage in high-reliability power solutions, EPC Space provides compact, efficient, and robust solutions designed to perform in the most demanding radiation environments.
Read the original announcement here.
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