Microsemi radiation-tolerant FPGAs gains QML Class V qualification for space

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., 21 May 2012. U.S. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) officials have qualified Microsemi Corp.’s (Nasdaq:MSCC) radiation-tolerant RTAX-S/SL field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) under Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) Class V, in accordance with military performance standard MIL-PRF-38535space-level qualificationrequirements. QML Class V is the highest standard for space integrated circuits (ICs).

Microsemi RTAX-S/SL FPGAs are designed to infuse space-flight systems with such advantages as high performance, low power, single-chip form factor, and live-at-power-up operation.

The QML Class V qualification of the RTAX-S/SL FPGA product family provides customers with an added level of assurance that Microsemi FPGAs are of the highest quality and reliability, says a spokesperson. Microsemi's QML Class V parts include a 2,000-hour life test on each wafer lot and a destructive physical analysis (DPA) on each assembly lot—removing the need for customers to perform these tests and providing scheduling and cost benefits.

Microsemi's RTAX-S/SL radiation-tolerant FPGAs are specifically designed for space applications using highly reliable and nonvolatile antifuse technology. They are offered in densities of up to 4 million equivalent system gates and 840 user input/outputs (I/Os), providing designers with a flexible programmable platform and the ability to accommodate last-minute design changes.

The RTAX-S/SL family has hot-swap and cold-sparing capabilities, enabling a device to be turned off to minimize power consumption during long space missions and activated only when functionality is required. Additional features include:
• Up to 540 kbits of embedded memory with optional EDAC protection
• Total dose: 300 kRads (functional) and 200 kRads (parametric)
• Single event upset (SEU) immunity
• Multiple packing options (CQFP and CCGA/LGA)
• Screening: E-Flow (Microsemi Extended Flow), B-Flow (Mil-STD-883B), and V-Flow (MIL-PRF-38535 QML Class V)