LSI Devices for Fault-Tolerant Spaceborne Computer

Abstract

In order to meet the requirements for future satellite applications, a brassboard of an extremely reliable fault-tolerant spaceborne computer (FTSC) has been developed by Raytheon Co., Sudbury, MA., under the sponsorship of the USAF/SAMSO*. The requirements for the FTSC were high reliability, high speed, low power, high density and tolerance to space radiation environments. The reliability requirements were realized through several unique system and circuit concepts while the remaining requirements could only be realized through use of large-scale-integrated (LSI) circuit technology. An assessment of possible candidates for the LSI requirements for the FTSC was performed on available and emerging technologies. Once the candidate LSI technology was selected, a "proof-of-technology" program was instituted. The program included the development of a test chip to prove the operational characteristics of the technology and its producibility. Development of flyable prototypes of the FTSC using LSI devices is the final program goal.