A report describes an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for controlling a power-switching metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) in a spacecraft power-supply system. Denoted an SCA (for switch-control ASIC), this ASIC is designed to be radiation-hard and to function over a wide temperature range during a long operational lifetime.

This work was done by Barbara Lam, Clint Kwa, David Zhu, Gene Wester, Gregory Carr, John Bennett, Lauro Franco, David Hogue, Pete Skelly, and Russ Haskell of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. To obtain a copy of the report, "Switch Control ASIC," access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.nasatech.com/tsp  under the Electronics & Computers category.

NPO-30280

Topics:
Electrical systems Electronic equipment Electronics & Computers Integrated circuits Logistics Metals Semiconductors Spacecraft Switches Transistors Vehicles
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
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ASIC for Controlling a Power-Switching MOSFET

(reference NPO-30280) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

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NASA Tech Briefs Magazine

This article first appeared in the December, 2001 issue of NASA Tech Briefs Magazine (Vol. 25 No. 12).

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Overview

The document presents a technical support package for an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) developed for controlling power-switching metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) in spacecraft power-supply systems. This ASIC, referred to as the switch-control ASIC (SCA), is designed to meet the rigorous demands of space applications, including radiation hardness and functionality over a wide temperature range, ensuring reliability during extended operational lifetimes.

The SCA addresses critical power-switching requirements in spacecraft, which include the need for robust control mechanisms to protect against load faults, efficient power distribution, and the ability to switch power quickly and safely for tasks such as igniting pyrotechnic devices and actuating valves. The design of the SCA allows it to integrate all necessary digital, analog, and power functions into a single chip set, streamlining the power control process for various spacecraft missions.

One of the key innovations of the SCA is its ability to achieve a factor-of-two increase in packaging density compared to state-of-the-art power-switching circuitry, while also reducing overall power consumption. This improvement is significant for spacecraft, where space and energy efficiency are paramount.

The document highlights the collaborative effort of a team of inventors from Caltech, including Barbara Lam, Clint Kwa, David Zhu, Gene Wester, Gregory Carr, John Bennett, Lauro Franco, David Hogue, Pete Skelly, and Russ Haskell, who developed this technology under NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The work is part of a broader initiative to enhance the reliability and efficiency of power systems in space exploration.

In summary, the SCA represents a significant advancement in spacecraft power management technology, combining multiple functions into a single, efficient chipset that enhances operational safety and performance. The document also notes that while a detailed description of the ASIC has not yet been published, plans are in place to release further information following prototype testing results. This innovation is expected to play a crucial role in future space missions, ensuring that power systems are both effective and resilient in the challenging environment of space.