Radiation-hardened microcontroller for space satellites introduced by Microchip Technology

CHANDLER, Ariz. –CHANDLER, Ariz. Microchip Technology Inc. in Chandler, Ariz., is introducing the radiation-hardened ATmegaS64M1 microcontroller for subsystems like remote terminal controllers and data handling functions for satellites, constellations, launchers, or critical avionics applications.

The ATmegaS64M1 microcontroller combines radiation performance with low-cost development of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices. It is an 8-bit microcontroller that uses a development approach called COTS-to-radiation-tolerant.

This approach takes a proven automotive-qualified device, the ATmega64M1, and creates pinout-compatible versions in high-reliability plastic and space-grade ceramic packages.

The devices are immune to single-event latchup (SEL) to 62 MeV.cm²/mg, and offer no single-event functional interrupts (SEFI) to secure memory integrity. The devices are hardened to 20 to 50 kilorads of total-dose radiation.

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The ATmega64M1 COTS device, and its development toolchain including development kits and code configurator, can be used to begin development of hardware, firmware and software. When the final system is ready for the prototype phase or production, the COTS device can be replaced with a pin-out compatible, radiation-tolerant version in a 32-lead ceramic package (QFP32) with the same functionality as the original device.

The ATmegaS64M1 operates in temperatures from -55 to 125 degrees Celsius, and combines a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, D/A converter, and motor control capabilities.

For more information contact Microchip Technology online at www.microchip.com.

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