Microchip Introduces Radiation-Tolerant Six-Output Clock Generator for Spacecraft Timing

Microchip Technology has introduced the DSA504RT, a radiation-tolerant programmable clock generator for aerospace and defense applications. The device is designed to generate multiple timing signals from a single master clock, reducing the number of oscillators and timing components required within spacecraft systems.

According to Microchip, the DSA504RT is intended for applications where stable timing must be maintained for navigation, communications, and scientific instruments, including situations where GNSS signals are weak or unavailable.

Single Device for Clock Distribution

The DSA504RT generates multiple phase-aligned output frequencies from a single timing source. Microchip states that this allows several discrete oscillators and buffers to be replaced by one device.

The company says this approach can reduce component count, lower power consumption, decrease system mass, and improve the overall Failures in Time (FIT) rate. It also simplifies the clock distribution network by keeping multiple subsystems synchronized from a common reference.

Six Configurable Outputs

The DSA504RT incorporates an analog phase-locked loop (APLL) with spread-spectrum capability, together with two fractional dividers, two integer dividers, and six configurable output buffers. Each output can be configured as an LVPECL, LVDS, or HCSL differential driver, or as a pair of single-ended CMOS outputs.

According to Microchip, the device delivers output jitter as low as 200 femtoseconds (12kHz to 20MHz) and complies with PCIe Gen 1 through Gen 7 specifications.

Space-Grade Timing Device

The DSA504RT is offered in QFN28 and CQFP32 package options and is intended as a companion timing device for systems built around radiation-tolerant and radiation-hardened FPGAs and microcontrollers.

Microchip positions the device as part of its space-grade timing portfolio, providing a single-chip clock architecture intended to reduce overall bill of materials and screening costs while remaining within the company's radiation-qualified ecosystem.

The DSA504RT is available in limited sampling upon request. Download the datasheet here.

Learn more and read the original announcement at www.microchip.com

Technology Overview

The DSA504RT is a radiation-tolerant six-output programmable clock generator for aerospace and defense applications. The device generates multiple phase-aligned frequencies from a single master source and integrates an analog PLL, programmable dividers, and configurable output buffers supporting LVPECL, LVDS, HCSL, and CMOS interfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DSA504RT?

The DSA504RT is a radiation-tolerant six-output programmable clock generator designed for spacecraft and aerospace timing applications.

What output types does the device support?

Each output can be configured as LVPECL, LVDS, HCSL, or as a pair of single-ended CMOS outputs.

Which applications is the DSA504RT designed for?

According to Microchip, the device is intended for spacecraft timing systems supporting navigation, communications, scientific instruments, and other aerospace and defense applications.