ST introduces 2.5V rad-hard DAC for next-generation satellites
By being able to operate down to 2.5V, the RHRDAC121 radiation-hardened (rad-hard) DAC can be used in modern, low-power satellite system designs that older 3.3V parts cannot support.
The DAC by STMicroelectronics consumes just 0.6mW at its maximum speed and supply voltage. The 12-bit 1Msample per second successive approximation register (SAR) DAC helps reduce size, weight, and power (SWaP) in next-generation satellites, said ST. They are typically used in circuits for telemetry, housekeeping and precision sensor-gain adjustment. Features include an SPI-compatible serial output, internal voltage reference, and automatic power-on-reset to zero-volt output. The DAC contributes to precision with minimal external components to save circuit complexity and board area.
Maintaining stable performance parameters in harsh conditions up to 100krad(Si) total ionising dose (TID), the RHRDAC121 is free of single event latch-up (SEL) up to 125MeV.cm²/mg. It is characterised for single event transient (SET) and single event upset (SEU) and ready for immediate deployment with no further up-screening required.
The RHRDAC121 is QML-V -qualified and supplied in a hermetic ceramic package with gold or solder-dipped leads. It is also available as bare die. Designed and manufactured in Europe, it leverages ST’s 130nm pure CMOS technology and processes. The DAC’s development has been funded by CNES (Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales), the French Space Agency.
