Microchip Technology Inc (Nasdaq: MCHP) has expanded its L-Series timing portfolio with the launch of the LX-820 Radiation-Tolerant Quartz Oscillator for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and other space applications. The device is designed to provide precision timing in a compact package while addressing cost and supply constraints faced by satellite manufacturers.
The LX-820 joins a portfolio of timing devices developed to bridge the gap between commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components and traditional high-reliability space-grade products. The L-Series includes oscillators with different levels of frequency stability, phase noise, power consumption and size to meet varying mission requirements.
Microchip said its L-Series devices combine commercial- or military-grade components with production inspection, electrical and thermal analysis, and hybrid manufacturing processes. The oscillators have undergone Total Ionizing Dose (TID) and Single-Event Latchup (SEL) testing as complete operating devices, with radiation tolerance of up to 50 krad and SEL testing to 40 MeV·cm²/mg. Most products in the series also use swept quartz to reduce radiation-induced frequency drift.
The L-Series oven-controlled crystal oscillators feature rugged construction and four-point crystal mounts designed to withstand launch conditions and the demands of their intended missions. The new LX-820 comes in a 3.2 mm × 2.5 mm surface-mount package and operates across temperatures ranging from -55°C to 125°C. It is designed to meet MIL-PRF-55310 Level B requirements and offers ±100 ppm performance. The oscillator supports CMOS output frequencies from 1.25 MHz to 135 MHz and low-voltage differential signalling (LVDS) output frequencies from 100 MHz to 250 MHz.
Microchip said the L-Series is intended to help satellite developers manage long procurement schedules and high component costs associated with conventional space-grade timing products. Many configurations are available from stock or with lead times of less than 20 weeks. The approach can also reduce the documentation, component pedigree and inspection requirements typically associated with traditional high-reliability products.
Randy Brudzinski, corporate vice president of Microchip’s Frequency and Time Systems business unit, said satellite developers needed precision timing solutions that meet mission performance requirements without placing additional pressure on budgets and schedules. He said the L-Series was designed to help reduce procurement delays and mission risks.
The wider portfolio includes crystal oscillators, temperature-compensated crystal oscillators, oven-controlled crystal oscillators and a pulse-per-second disciplined oscillator. These products support timing requirements across satellite communications, navigation, Earth observation, mapping and emerging lunar missions.
Microchip Technology Inc supplies semiconductors and development tools for industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defence, communications and computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, the company provides products and technical support for customers across the design process.
