Ethernet Enables Higher Data Rates for Space Applications

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Microchip has developed a space-qualified Ethernet communication solution based on a Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) for space applications.

eetimes.com, Jan. 28, 2020 – 

Microchip's first space-qualified Ethernet transceiver offers the possibility of interoperability between satellites and other space vehicles, all based on a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solution. Applications range from launch vehicles to satellite constellations and space stations.

The increasing complexity of systems has led to the spread of distributed architectures. With distributed architectures, the selection of the connection bus is crucial to meet performance and reliability requirements. Ethernet is increasingly the choice in the aerospace field, with the aim of supporting higher data rates. The Ethernet protocol is also well known in the automotive and industrial markets, allowing some synergies between various space applications.

"Ethernet connectivity is selected as the main technology, for example, to connect modules of the deep space gateway program driven by NASA," said Nicolas Ganry, manager of product marketing – aerospace, at Microchip.

"It is an international project where different nations, space industry participants and agencies will work to develop Ethernet solutions. Strong radiations robustness is required for such space missions; this is the main criteria to select the right solution. On top of that, for this mission a Gbit traffic solution is required in a ceramic package to achieve QMLV qualification level. That is another challenge to have this type of ceramic part with the same level of performances than plastic industrial parts. The VSC8541RT Microchip Ethernet transceiver provides superior radiation results while providing a high-performance solution in ceramic package at space grade qualification level," said Ganry.

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