Half the power consumption compared to SRAM-based FPGAs
Withstand total ionization dose exposure exceeding 10 kRad
Configuration switches can be implemented in the architecture


Developers of space devices utilize radiation-resistant FPGAs when building onboard systems that must operate continuously in space.

Microchip Technology announced on the 23rd that it has launched the radiation-resistant 'PolarFire FPGA'.

Space applications are increasingly transmitting processed data rather than simple data. In addition, superior computing performance is required to make the most of the limited downlink bandwidth.

Radiation-resistant PolarFire FPGAs provide 1.5 times the performance, 3 times the logic elements, and SERDES (SERializer-DESerializer) bandwidth in space applications requiring up to 5 times the computing throughput.

It provides 6 times higher embedded SRAM to handle more complex systems compared to existing FPGAs, and withstands exposure to Total Ionizing Dose (TID) exceeding 100 kilorads, which is commonly encountered in most satellites orbiting the Earth and many deep space projects.

Compared to an SRAM-based FPGA with equivalent density and performance, the power consumption of the radiation-resistant PolarFire FPGA is half.

Developers can implement configuration switches in the architecture using the SONOS non-volatile technology of the radiation-resistant PolarFire FPGA. This enables simpler designs than SRAM-based FPGAs and reduces power consumption.

The radiation-resistant PolarFire FPGA is scheduled to undergo standard processes to meet QML standards, including V-grade certification. The certification requires the performance of extensive and continuous testing, including inspection of each wafer and package assembly lot.

Bruce Weyer, Vice President of Microchip’s FPGA business unit, commented, “PolarFire FPGAs have made progress in computing throughput required by applications such as process-intensive neural networks for object detection and recognition, high-resolution passive and active imaging, and high-precision telescience measurement, while maintaining the path toward QML certification.”

The Microchip PolarFire RTPF500T FPGA is packaged within a sealed Ceramic Column Grid Array (CCGA) containing integrated decoupling capacitors and is scheduled to be certified for use in spaceflight implementations in 2021.

Developers can start designing using Microchip's Libero software tool suite and the PolarFire MPF500T FPGA. The tool suite includes optional Triple Mode Redundancy (TMR) for SEU mitigation used in control circuits, etc.

Development boards are available on commercial PolarFire FPGAs, and radiation-resistant PolarFire will be included in future engineering model forms. Available radiation data includes TID, Single-Event Latchup (SEL), configuration upset, unprotected D Flip-Flop (DFF) upset, and memory.