Microsemi Corporation, a leading provider of semiconductor solutions differentiated by power, security, reliability and performance, today announced its RTG4(TM) high-speed signal processing radiation-tolerant field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) have achieved Qualified Manufacturers List (QML) Class Q qualification by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). The qualification, which validates the quality and reliability of RTG4 FPGAs as well as the company’s qualification and manufacturing screening processes, enables easier design of Microsemi’s flash technology into space applications due to the streamlined process of working with QML-qualified products.
“We are excited to achieve this milestone qualification for our RTG4 FPGAs, which provides customers with added confidence in designing these devices in space flight systems and taking advantage of their high-speed signal processing capabilities to solve satellite signal processing congestion,” said Minh Nguyen, Microsemi’s senior marketing manager of space and aviation. “This designation also strengthens our leadership position in space and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the highest quality and reliability solutions. We are continuing our qualification work with RTG4 with the goal of ultimately achieving a QML Class V qualification–the highest qualification level for integrated circuits.”
To achieve QML Class Q qualification, Microsemi leveraged the results of its MIL-STD-883 Class B qualification, in which RTG4 FPGAs passed a series of environmental tests to determine resistance to deleterious effects of natural elements and conditions surrounding defense and space operations, as well as mechanical and electrical tests. Upon completion of the MIL-STD-883 Class B qualification, RTG4 units from multiple wafer lots successfully completed 1,000-hour high temperature life tests. As part of Microsemi’s commitment to high reliability, these units were then taken through more high temperature life tests, exceeding the requirements of MIL-STD-883 Class B. The units have now successfully completed 4,000-hour high temperature life tests, again validating the high reliability of the company’s RTG4 flash cells in extreme conditions. Details can be found in the company’s reliability report.
As Microsemi is already a QML-V certified manufacturer of high reliability FPGAs for space applications, achieving the recent QML-Q qualification for its RTG4 FPGAs further strengthens its leadership position in the market and reflects the company’s focus on developing innovative solutions to meet the increasing demands of modern satellite payloads. In addition to satellites, its RTG4 FPGAs are ideally suited for applications including space launch vehicles, planetary orbiters and landers, and deep space probes.
According to Euroconsult’s report titled, “Satellites to be Built and Launched by 2024,” 60 percent more satellites will be launched by 2024 versus the past decade. This increase is driven primarily by civilian government agencies as established space countries replace and expand their in-orbit satellite systems and more countries acquire their first operational satellite systems.
The new QML qualification from DLA aligns with Microsemi’s focus on delivering industry-leading space-level capabilities, technologies and products. With the recent qualification for its RTG4 FPGAs, customers can now procure the spaceflight FPGAs screened to B-flow per MIL-STD-883 Class B specifications and Microsemi’s Extended Flow (E-Flow) using DLA’s standard microcircuit drawing (SMD) and designated part numbers. More information can be found in the company’s DLA Cross Reference Guide.
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