LA5587
AI

The **LA5587** is an integrated circuit (IC) primarily designed as a **compact DC motor speed controller** for low-voltage applications. It was commonly manufactured by Sanyo (now part of ON Semiconductor) and used extensively in portable audio equipment like cassette players and Walkmans.
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## 1. Core Specifications
The LA5587 is designed to maintain a constant motor speed despite fluctuations in battery voltage or mechanical load.
| Parameter | Value |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Operating Voltage (Vcc)** | 1.8V to 8V |
| **Quiescent Current** | ~1.5mA |
| **Maximum Motor Current** | ~700mA |
| **Operating Temperature** | -20°C to +80°C |
| **Package Type** | Typically SIP-4 (Single In-line Package) |
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## 2. Key Internal Components
The IC integrates several electronic stages into a single silicon chip:
1. **Reference Voltage Generator:** Provides a stable voltage level to compare against the motor's Back EMF (Electromotive Force).
2. **Error Amplifier:** Compares the actual motor speed (represented by current/voltage feedback) with the target speed.
3. **Current Proportional Circuit:** Adjusts the drive current to compensate for torque variations.
4. **Output Transistor:** A power stage capable of driving the motor directly without external power transistors.
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## 3. Pin Configuration (SIP-4)
The device is streamlined for minimal external component count, typically using 4 pins:
| Pin Number | Name | Description |
| :---: | :--- | :--- |
| 1 | **Vcc** | Positive power supply input. |
| 2 | **Control** | Used for speed adjustment via an external resistor/potentiometer. |
| 3 | **Motor** | Output terminal connected to the motor. |
| 4 | **GND** | Ground/Common terminal. |
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## 4. Typical Application Circuit
To function, the LA5587 requires very few external parts. A basic implementation usually includes:
* **A Potentiometer (VR):** Connected to the control pin to calibrate the motor RPM.
* **Smoothing Capacitors:** To reduce electrical noise generated by the motor brushes.
```mermaid
graph LR
VCC --> LA5587
LA5587 --> Motor
LA5587 --> Resistor/Pot
Resistor/Pot --> GND
Motor --> GND
```
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## 5. Main Advantages
* **Low Voltage Operation:** Works efficiently on 2 or 3 battery cells (3V - 4.5V).
* **High Stability:** Excellent regulation against temperature and load changes.
* **Space Saving:** The SIP-4 package is very thin, ideal for compact handheld devices.
- ⤷
What are the common replacement equivalents for the LA5587 IC?
- ⤷ How do you calculate the resistor value for a specific RPM on this IC?
- ⤷ Can the LA5587 be used to drive brushless DC motors?