EPC91121 BLDC Motor Drive Evaluation Board Introduced, Using EPC’s Gen-7 40V GaN Technology

Why It Matters

The EPC91121 accelerates development of next‑generation GaN‑based motor drives, offering engineers a high‑frequency, low‑loss platform that can shrink magnetic components and improve system performance across fast‑growth markets like drones and industrial automation.

Key Takeaways

• EPC91121 supports 70 A peak, 24 V battery systems
• 0.84 mΩ on‑resistance enables high efficiency
• 150 kHz switching reduces magnetic component size
• Integrated sensing simplifies motor‑control development
• Compatible with major MCU ecosystems via 40‑pin interface

Pulse Analysis

Gallium nitride (GaN) technology is reshaping power electronics by delivering faster switching speeds and lower conduction losses than traditional silicon. EPC's seventh‑generation 40 V eGaN FET, the EPC2366, exemplifies this trend with an ultra‑low 0.84 mΩ on‑resistance, allowing designers to push inverter frequencies well beyond 100 kHz. This capability translates into smaller inductors and capacitors, reduced thermal footprints, and higher overall system efficiency—critical factors for battery‑operated devices where weight and runtime are paramount.

The EPC91121 evaluation board packages these advantages into a ready‑to‑use three‑phase inverter platform. Engineers can immediately test high‑frequency motor‑control algorithms such as field‑oriented control (FOC) and space‑vector PWM, thanks to built‑in current, voltage and temperature sensing, as well as Hall‑sensor and encoder interfaces. Its 40‑pin connector aligns with development kits from Renesas, Microchip, Texas Instruments and ST, minimizing integration effort and accelerating time‑to‑market for prototypes ranging from UAV propulsion systems to compact industrial robots.

Industry adoption of GaN‑based drives is poised to grow as manufacturers seek higher power density and quieter operation. The EPC91121’s ability to operate at 150 kHz reduces magnetic component size and dv/dt stress, addressing electromagnetic compatibility concerns that have hampered earlier GaN implementations. With a price point of $670 and immediate availability through Digi‑Key and Mouser, the board lowers the barrier for startups and established OEMs alike to explore GaN advantages, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of motor‑drive solutions in the coming years.