Radiation-tolerant telemetry controller provides highest level of integration

The first member of its new radiation tolerant space system manager (SSM) family of special-purpose mixed-signal devices, the LX7730 telemetry controller integrated circuit, has been unveiled by Microsemi. The LX7730 integrates the required functions in satellite telemetry systems and interfaces with radiation-tolerant FPGAs. The controller supports parallel or dual SPI interfaces and provides cold sparing. Other key features include a 64-channel multiplexer, break-before-make switching and a precision adjustable current source. The new IC is radiation tolerant to a minimum of 100kRad TID, 50kRad ELDRs, and is single event immune. The LX7730, packaged in a 132-pin ceramic quad flat package, is designed for use in rugged environments and operates over a -55C to 125C temperature range, say the company. “Our goal is to leverage over five decades of Microsemi’s space heritage and provide our customers with innovative space system solutions solving application specific challenges,” said Dorian Johnson, marketing manager, high-reliability ICs, Microsemi. “An ongoing challenge in the satellite market is to reduce weight and board space and to increase reliability. The LX7730 offers space system architects and designers the highest level of integration for telemetry applications available today to address their increasing needs and requirements.” Marco Caceres, senior analyst and director of space studies for the Virginia-based Teal Group consulting firm, added: "We expect 1,500 new spacecraft of 50Kg mass or larger to be launched within the next 10 years. This represents 25 percent growth in the number of spacecraft in this mass category over the preceding 10 years. These satellites have stringent requirements to reduce weight and real estate that are addressed by Microsemi’s SSM solution.”