The development of radiation-resistant systems for space applications has traditionally been characterized by long lead times and high costs to achieve the highest level of reliability in multi-year missions within an adverse environment.
The AtmegaS64M1 is Microchip's second 8-bit megaAVR® microcontroller to utilize a radiation-resistant, commercially available device. This approach takes a proven and approved automotive device, such as the Atmega64M1, and creates compatible form factor versions in high-reliability plastic and ceramic packages approved for space applications. These devices are designed to meet radiation tolerances with the following anticipated performance characteristics:
• Complete immunity to single-event latch-up (SEL) up to 62 MeV.cm²/mg
• No single-event functional interrupts (SEFI) with guaranteed memory integrity
• Total ionizing dose (TID) between 20 and 50 Krad(Si)
• Characterization of all functional blocks in the event of a single-event upset (SEU)
The new device joins the AtmegaS128, a radiation-resistant microcontroller that has already been used in several critical space missions, including the exploration of Mars and a megaconstellation of several hundred low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
The commercial version of the device, designated ATmega64M1, along with its comprehensive suite of development tools, such as development kits and a code configurator, can be used to initiate hardware, firmware, and software development. When the final system is ready for the prototype or production phase, the commercial device can be replaced with a compatible, radiation-resistant ATmegaS64M1, supplied in a 32-pin ceramic package (QFP32), offering the same functionality as the original device. This provides significant cost savings, as well as reduced development time and risk.
The ATmegaS64M1 offers a wide operating temperature range of -55°C to +125°C. It is the first commercially available radiation-resistant microcontroller to combine a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, a D/A converter, and motor control capabilities. These features make it ideal for various subsystems, such as remote terminal controllers and data management functions for satellites, constellations, launch vehicles, or critical avionics applications.
To facilitate the design process and accelerate time to market, Microchip offers the STK 600 full development board for the ATmegaS64M1, giving designers a head start in code development with advanced prototyping and design testing capabilities. The board is supported by the Atmel Studio Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and software libraries for development and debugging.
The devices, already available for sampling and volume production, come in four versions:
• ATmegaS64M1-KH-E in QFP32 ceramic packaging for prototypes
• ATmegaS64M1-KH-MQ in QFP32 ceramic packaging for space applications with QMLQ approval
• ATmegaS64M1-KH-SV in QFP32 ceramic packaging for space applications with QMLV approval
• ATmegaS64M1-MD-HP in QFP32 plastic packaging with AQEC high-reliability approval for large-volume production
