Microchip reduces time to market for NewSpace Marketplace products and reduces costs

     Developing radiation-resistant systems for space applications not only requires long lead times, but is also very costly because the systems must have extremely high reliability to operate in harsh environments for years. NewSpace and other important aerospace applications require accelerated development and reduced costs. To address these needs, MicrochipTechnologyInc has introduced a new single-chip microcomputer (MCU) that combines the unique radiation resistance with the low-cost development features of existing commercial COTS (COTS) devices.

     The ATmegaS64M1 is Microchip's second 8-bit megaAVR graph MCU and uses a development approach called COTS Radiation Resistant. This approach leverages a proven automotion-grade device, the ATmega64M1, and develops pin-compatible versions of the corresponding high-reliability plastic and space-grade ceramic packages. These devices are designed to meet radiation resistance requirements.

     The ATmega64M1COTS device, along with its complete development toolchain, including development kits and code configurators, can be used to start hardware, firmware, and software development. When the final system is ready for prototype phase trial production or volume production, a pin-compatible, radiation-resistant 32-pin ceramic package (QFP32) device can be used to replace the COTS device with the same functionality as the original device. This greatly reduces costs, while also reducing development time and risk.

     PatrickSauvage, Director of Microchip's Aerospace Business unit, said :" Our COTS radiation-resistant approach gives us the equivalent of a space-grade device that delivers enhanced, enhanced devices with enhanced screening to the aerospace industry. In addition, using COTS devices to develop and then replacing them with pin-compatible, fully functional, high-reliability plastic or ceramic packaged devices reduces development time, cost and risk for our customers.

     The ATmegaS64M1 meets the requirements of high operating temperature range from -55°C to +125°C. It is the first COTS radiation-resistant MCU to combine controller local Area Network (CAN) bus, digital-to-analog converter (DAC), and motor control. These characteristics make it ideal for use in satellites, constellations, launchers, or in a variety of subsystems for critical avionics applications, such as remote terminal controllers and data processing functions.