Implemented with 45 nm 1-D Mask Lite radiation hardened standard cells, the proposed chip architecture is optimized for sensor data handling and actuator control applications in space or near-space environments. The hard macro analog and processor functions of the chip provide high performace processing comparable to a custom ASIC at a fraction of the cost, thereby supporting low volume designs which are processor based but need a significant level of custom logic to meet the mission needs. Built in analog and digital functions will provide for A/D conversion of analog inputs, standard serial interfaces to compatible sensors, SpaceWire interface to the intra-satellite network and actuator control support such as a multi-channel Pulse Width Modulation Timer. Exampe sensors would be velocity or position monitors, environmental sensors and imaging sensors. Actuator control is supported by circuits such as a multi-channel Pulse Width Modulated output Timer. Data processing is supported by a CPU with via ROM program memory for application specific code as well as the user customized structured ASIC logic which is ideal for implementing digital filters.
The proposed architecture implemented with non rad-hard standard cell libraries is optimal for low to medium volume processor based designs which require some custom logic and need the performance achievable in a 45 nm technology but do not have the volumes to justify the cost of a full custom ASIC. Verifying prototype or first generation designs before committing to a custom ASIC for high volume production is one market segment for this chip architecture and technology. Another is low to medium volume applications for sensor data processing and/or actuator control such as in industrial control and monitoring, medical equipment, and communication systems. Conversion of FPGA based designs to a structured ASIC for unit cost reduction and power/performance improvement is another significant target market.
More »