New Rad-Tolerant DC-DC Converters for LEO Applications

Microchip Technology has introduced a new family of Radiation-Tolerant (RT) LE50-28 isolated DC-DC 50-W power converters, available in nine variants with single- and triple-outputs ranging from 3.3V to 28V. These power converters are designed to meet the increasing demand for standard space-grade products that are reliable, cost-effective, and configurable. This demand is being driven by the rapidly growing Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) market, where private and public entities are exploring new space regions for applications such as 5G communication, cube satellites, and IoT.

The off-the-shelf LE50-28 family of power converters is specifically designed to meet MIL-STD-461 standards. These power converters come with a companion EMI filter and provide customers with ease of design customization by offering one or three outputs based on the required voltage range for the end application. Additionally, this series allows for flexibility to parallel up to four power converters to reach a total power output of 200-W.

Targeted at 28-V bus systems, the LE50-28 isolated DC-DC power converters can be seamlessly integrated with Microchip’s PolarFire® FPGAs, microcontrollers, and LX7720-RT motor control sensor to create a complete electrical system. Designers can leverage these high-reliability radiation-tolerant power devices to significantly reduce system-level development time, ensuring robust performance in challenging environments.

Leon Gross, vice president of Microchip’s discrete products group, emphasized the importance of these new power converters for customers operating in new space and LEO environments. He stated, “The new family of LE50-28 devices enable our customers to succeed in new space and LEO environments where components must withstand harsh conditions. Our off-the-shelf products offer a reliable and cost-effective solution designed for the durability our customers have come to expect from Microchip.”

The LE50-28 power converters provide a range of electrical connection and mounting options. Manufactured with conventional surface mount and thru-hole components on a printed wiring board, the LE50 series stands out for its efficient manufacturing process, which can reduce time to market and mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions. Moreover, the LE50-28 family offers space-grade radiation tolerance with 50 Krad Total Ionizing Dosis (TID) and Single Event Effects (SEE) latch-up immunity of 37 MeV·cm2/mg linear energy transfer.