Space system designers cannot easily support non-standard voltages or add functions with traditional hybrid-style power converters. Microchip Technology Inc. has eliminated the cost, complexity, and customization challenges of these hybrid solutions by offering a discrete-component-based, space-grade DC-DC power converter family that now includes 28V-input, 50-watt (W) radiation-tolerant options.
“Our latest 28V-input SA50-28 products greatly simplify and accelerate system development,” said Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s discrete product business unit. “They are easier to customize than alternative space-grade power converters so they can meet specific voltage, current, and other needs. Customers gain flexibility while reducing the size, cost, and complexity of their space system designs.”
Microchip’s SA50-28 family is the industry’s only off-the-shelf, 28V-input, radiation-tolerant power converter offering that is based on discrete components with surface-mount construction and non-hybrid assembly processes. Delivering more capabilities than alternative off-the-shelf, space-grade power converters, a single SA50-28 device with customized parameters eliminates the volume, weight, and complexity problems of using hybrid solutions with their multiple devices and surrounding circuitry.
Microchip’s comprehensive SA50-28 product line is a 20V- to 40V-input, 50W family with nine standard outputs of 3.3V, 5V, 12V, 15V, and 28V in single- and triple-output configurations. The devices can be tailored to a system’s exacting power needs in a relatively short time with minimal additional costs as compared to hybrid-style power converter products. Other features include high efficiency, low output noise, output inhibit control, overcurrent protection, external synchronization, and full-rated power operation through −55°C to +85°C with linear derating to +125°C.
The SA50-28 family is part of Microchip’s growing line of standard non-hybrid, space-grade power converters that enable designers to use commercially available, off-the-shelf components whose circuitry has a proven spaceflight heritage. The products join the radiation-hardened SA50-120 power converter family, introduced in February 2021, that reduces risk and development time for qualified space systems by allowing designers to start with proven commercially available off-the-shelf technology in ceramic or plastic packages and quickly scaling up development using lower screening levels than traditional Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) requirements.
Microchip’s radiation-tolerant SA50-28 family is available for volume production and limited sampling. Prototype-grade units are available from stock, and non-radiation-tolerant engineering units are also available with the same performance as the space-grade units at a lower cost. Delivery times are usually faster than hybrid-construction units with no associated lot penalty. The devices are complemented by Microchip’s family of FPGAs, high-reliability radiation-hardened power semiconductors, and space-grade timing devices.
For additional information, including pricing, contact a Microchip sales representative, authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip’s website.