What is TMC5160 

The TMC5160/TMC5160A is a high-power stepper motor controller and driver IC with serial communication interfaces. It offers a flexible ramp generator for precise target positioning and features the industry's most advanced stepper motor driver. By using external transistors, it enables the creation of highly dynamic, high-torque motor systems.

What is TMC2209

The TMC2209 is an ultra-quiet motor driver IC designed for two-phase stepper motors. Its pinout is compatible with several legacy drivers and the TMC2208. Featuring TRINAMIC's advanced StealthChop2 technology, it ensures noiseless motor operation, maximum efficiency, and optimal torque. With fast current regulation and the option to use SpreadCycle, it allows for highly dynamic motion and includes features like StallGuard for sensorless homing.

Main Differences between TMC5160 vs TMC2209

From Features and Application, let's see the differences between TMC5160 vs TMC2209

Features

Applications

TMC5160 Application

• High-Power Stepper Motors: The TMC5160 is suitable for applications that require driving high-power stepper motors with coil currents ranging from 1 to several 10A. This makes it a good choice for applications where higher torque and power are needed, such as industrial automation and CNC machines.
• Precise Positioning: It offers features like SixPoint™ ramp, high microstepping resolution (up to 256 microsteps per full step), and encoder interface, making it suitable for applications where precise and smooth positioning is critical.
• Quiet Operation: With features like StealthChop2™ and resonance damping, the TMC5160 provides noiseless operation, making it ideal for applications where low noise is essential, such as 3D printers and medical devices.
• Advanced Control: Its advanced control algorithms and communication interfaces (SPI and Single Wire UART) make it a good fit for applications that require fine-tuned control and diagnostics.

TMC2209 Application

• Low to Medium Power Stepper Motors: The TMC2209 is designed for driving 2-phase stepper motors with coil currents of up to 2.8A (peak) or 2A RMS. It is suitable for applications with lower power requirements, such as 3D printers, smaller CNC machines, and robotics.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: TMC2209 offers a balance between performance and cost, making it a preferred choice for applications where cost-effectiveness is a priority.
• Silent Operation: Like the TMC5160, it incorporates StealthChop2™ technology, providing silent motor operation. This is beneficial in applications where noise reduction is desired, especially in consumer electronics and small-scale automation.
• Ease of Use: TMC2209's straightforward STEP/DIR interface and support for MicroPlyer™ interpolation simplify the integration process, making it a good choice for hobbyist and entry-level applications.
• Energy Efficiency: It features CoolStep™ current control, which can save up to 75% energy. This is advantageous in applications where energy efficiency is a concern.