Microchip announces a new microcontroller (MCU) that combines specified radiation performance with the low-cost development associated with Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) devices.  The AtmegaS64M1 meets the needs of NewSpace and other critical aerospace applications which require faster development and reduced costs.
 
Traditionally, developing radiation-hardened systems for space applications has a history of long lead-times and high costs to achieve the highest level of reliability for multi-year missions in a harsh environment.
 
The AtmegaS64M1 is the second 8-bit megaAVR® MCU from Microchip that uses a development approach called COTS-to-radiation-tolerant.  This approach takes a proven automotive-qualified device, such as the Atmega64M1, and creates pin-out compatible versions in both high-reliability plastic and space-grade ceramic packages.  The devices are designed to meet radiation tolerances with the following targeted performances:
 
  • Fully immune from Single-Event Latchup (SEL) up to 62 MeV.cm²/mg
  • No Single-Event Functional Interrupts (SEFI) which secure memory integrity
  • Accumulated Total Ionizing Dose (TID) between 20 to 50 Krad(Si)
  • Single Event Upset (SEU) haracterization for all functional blocks
 
The new device joins the AtmegaS128, a radiation-tolerant MCU that has already been designed into several critical space missions including a Mars exploration plus a megaconstellation of several hundred Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.