Predictive control comprises a large family of controllers. Recent development in microprocessors and Digital Signal Processors (DSP), has encouraged the research of predictive controllers for power electronics and drives applications.

In this Master Thesis different methods of Predictive Current Control (PCC) for a permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSMs) are investigated. Deadbeat and Model Predictive Control (MPC) are suggested as the most advantageous according simplicity and flexibility.

These proposed predictive control methods are compared in simulation using Matlab/Simulink with the classical and widely used Field Oriented Control (FOC). Given inverter dead-time and actuation delay are influential in the predictive controllers, compensation is suggested and implemented in simulations.
The results are discussed and deadbeat was chosen as the best solution because it provides fast dynamic response and low current ripple at a sampling frequency implementable in the given micro-controller.

Deadbeat and FOC were implemented in the laboratory using dSpace DS1103 platform. As a result, deadbeat is found to be a new, intuitive control alternative to the traditional FOC control scheme offering an improved torque response and dynamic performance for PMSMs control.