STMicroelectronics introduces the first space-grade configurable integrated current limiter

     Based on the original concept of the European Space Agency (ESA) to harmonize and miniaturize functions in all satellites, with the support of ESA and the French space Agency's National Center for Space Research (CNES), ST has developed a new current limiter chip, the RHRPMICL1A. The product has broad application prospects around the world and can provide a cost-effective standardized and configurable current limiting solution for space equipment power management systems.

     The RHRPMICL1A single-chip integrated latched current limiter and solid-state power switch (SSP) functions that previously required the use of several discrete components. This fully integrated solution not only simplifies design and reduces bill of materials (BOM) costs, but also reduces system weight and saves board space by up to 93%. Hardware designers can reduce the typical protection circuit area from 20cm x 20cm to 5cm x 5cm.

     The RHRPMICL1 is certified as a QML-V Aerospace product (5962R17211) with a radiation assurance (RHA) rating of 100kRad total ionization dose (TID) and a single particle latch value (SEL) of 78MeV.

     The new products are suitable for a variety of applications, acting as simple latches to protect slave devices, autonomous modes for automatic self-recovery, or return-limiting functions to maintain safe current under all conditions, including short circuits. The telemetry and remote control pins are usually directly connected to the onboard spacecraft computer, allowing designers to easily control the current limiting function. In order to allow circuit designers to control the chip flexibly, the load can be managed through an external P-channel MOSFET.

     The RHRPMICL1A is compatible with all common bus voltages in aerospace applications, including 28V, 50V and 100V, and features a suspension-ground configuration and Zener diode for future flexibility to handle higher bus voltages and protect loads in the event of internal failures.

     The RHRPMICL1A is ST's third QML-V certified radiation-resistant product designed with the company's proprietary BCD6s SOI power IC technology. This project once again demonstrates ST's research and development capabilities to provide high-end radiation-power resistant products for the aerospace industry. The new product is already in production, in a 20-pin sealed flat ceramic package.