Christine Thropp
Microchip Technology, a Department of Commerce-backed semiconductor manufacturer, has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of SAMD21RT, a radiation-tolerant Arm Cortex-M0+ based 32-bit microcontroller.
SAMD21RT is designed for space-constrained applications and features up to 48 MHz processing rate, an Analog-to-Digital Converter with up to 20 channels, a Digital-to-Analog Converter and analog comparators, Microchip Technology said Thursday.
The microcontroller also comes in a 64-pin ceramic and plastic package with 128 KB Flash and 16 KB SRAM, and has a 10 mm x 10 mm footprint. It is designed to have a high level of radiation tolerance and to withstand harsh environments like extreme temperatures.
“We continue to bring newer technologies like Ethernet, AI and ML, which have evolved in the commercial and industrial markets, and improve them with radiation performance to meet the needs of space missions,” said Bob Vampola, vice president of aerospace and defense business unit at Microchip.
In January 2024, Microchip and the Department of Commerce entered into a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms to support the company’s increased production of microcontroller units and other specialty semiconductors. The partnership entails expansion and modernization of its facilities in Colorado Springs, Colorado and Gresham, Oregon.
