Date: 18/07/2012

Atmel packs FPGA and processor in a module for aerospace engineering

Atmel has launched new configurable processor ATF697FF as part of its SPARC V8 processor family for the defense and aerospace engineering applications. Atmel claims this is the industry’s first radiation-hardened (RAD Hard) high-performance aerospace microprocessor that can be reconfigured on-the-fly. This allows the designer to reconfigure the processor without hitches to the performance of the space vehicle.

The new ATF697FF integrates Atmel’s RAD Hard AT697F processor and reconfigurable ATF280F FPGA unit in a single multichip module (MCM).

Atmel says the ATF697FF is ideal for systems that require reconfiguration of peripherals and interfaces, making it easy to comply and stay up-to-date with evolving standards that are used on many space missions, such as SpaceWire, CAN or IEEE1553. The flexibility of the ATF697FF processor is also beneficial for late design modifications performed on Earth, for in-flight adjustments on satellites and for space trial operations.

The new solution combines an Atmel AT697F SPARC V8 RAD Hard processor with a RAD Hard ATF280F SRAM-based FPGA and an internal PCI link. The ATF697FF runs at up to 100MHz and at low power, down to 0.7W. IDS and Mentor tools are available for FPGA designs and Atmel will offer pre-placed IPs to ease customized interfaces developments.

"The ability to make real-time, on-the-fly adjustments to satellites just before launch or while in-flight is an increasing demand in aerospace today. We’ve leveraged our extensive flight experience to deliver the industry’s first reconfigurable processor that also reduces costs and increases time-to-market," said Patrick Sauvage, general manager, Aerospace Business Unit, Atmel Corporation. "With over 3,000 flight models of the previous generation TSC695 processor in space and 300 flight models of the ATF697 processor delivered worldwide to-date, we have a proven track record of providing reliable, innovative solutions. The ATF697FF is further testament to our leadership."

Availability: Atmel is currently engaging with alpha customers on the ATF697FF. The product t be available for prototyping in July and for flight model implementation the end of 2012.

For more information on Atmel’s ATF697FF, visit: http://www.atmel.com/devices/ATF697FF.aspx.