STMicroelectronics has introduced the new LEO series of radiation-hardened power, analog, and logic ICs in low-cost plastic packages that provide important functions for the satellites’ electronic circuitry. The first nine devices in this series include a data converter, a voltage regulator, an LVDS transceiver, a line driver, and five logic gates that are used throughout systems like power generation and distribution, on-board computers, telemetry star trackers, and transceivers.
The series ensures a radiation hardness match to the LEO mission profile, with a Total Ionization Dose immunity up to 50 krad(Si), high immunity to Total Non-Ionizing Dose and Single Event Latch-up (SEL) immunity up to 62.5MeV.cm²/mg. The parts are assembled on the same production line used for ST’s AEC-Q100 automotive-qualified ICs, allowing the LEO series to benefit from the statistical process control that enables high-volume production at consistently high quality.
These new LEO rad-hard plastic parts are ready to use in New Space applications, with optimized qualification and production flows and economies of scale. They require no additional qualification or up-screening from their users and therefore eliminate significant cost and risk.
These LEO series components range from $70 for logic ICs to $450 for the data converter for orders of 1000 pieces through ST distribution partners. Development Model prices are from $135 to $775 for 10 pieces.
