Space

BAE SYSTEMS INTRODUCES NEW MEMORY PRODUCTS FOR SATELLITES

17 Jun 2008 | Ref. 180/2008

MANASSAS, Virginia - A new generation of radiation hardened microchips, four times more powerful than those they will replace, is set to boost the data processing and storage capability of satellite systems, including those used in anti-terrorist activities.

Now in production at BAE Systems' facility in Manassas, Virginia, the new family of radiation hardened static random-access memory (SRAM) products enables additional on-board processing and data storage for a variety of satellite systems.

Tim Scott, BAE Systems' national sales manager for space systems and electronics in Manassas, Virginia comments: "Our customers are always sensitive to reducing size, weight, and power usage while improving performance. Our new 16-megabit SRAM helps them in all four areas."

BAE Systems' new SRAM products include a 16-megabit monolithic and 32-, 64-, and 80-megabit multi-chip modules. Prototype and flight units are available. Development of the devices was funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. The 16-megabit SRAM development is part of a multi-phase research and development contract.

BAE Systems introduced its first radiation-hardened chip in 1983. The company's newest 16-megabit SRAM has 256 times more memory than its first. The devices withstand total ionizing doses of 1Mrad (Si), are immune to single-event-induced latch-up, and are characterized over a temperature range of -55C to +125C. The SRAMs are Qualified Manufacturers List Q and V compliant and will be available via a Defense Supply Center Columbus standard microcircuit drawing later this year.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency safeguards the United States and its allies from chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons and high explosives through efforts to reduce, eliminate, and counter these threats and mitigate their effects. This combat support agency serves as the Department of Defense's intellectual, technical, and operational leader in the national effort to combat weapons of mass destruction.

About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15.7 billion (US $31.4 billion) in 2007.

For further information, please contact
Karen Spiller, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 603 885 2818 Mobile: +1 603 566 2090
[email protected]

Shannon Smith, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 703 907 8257 Mobile: +1 703 967 3854
[email protected]