Microchip Technology Announces the Expansion of Atomic Clock Portfolio
Microchip Technology has expanded its atomic clock portfolio with the introduction of the radiation-tolerant Space CSAC-SA65, a Chip Scale Atomic Clock (CSAC) specifically engineered to deliver precise timing for advanced space systems. This device is designed to meet the increasing demand from the New Space market for smaller, less expensive space hardware, supporting short-duration missions in applications such as satellite-to-cellular communications, alternative navigation, and Earth imaging.
Building on the legacy of Microchip's Space CSAC-SA45, the Space CSAC-SA65 offers a compact, low-power alternative to traditional radiation-hardened timing solutions. It significantly helps developers reduce size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) while maintaining high accuracy. Manufactured as a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) product using radiation-tolerant commercial electronic components, it provides benefits like shorter lead times and lower overall costs compared to conventional space-grade oscillators.
Optimised for size-, weight-, and power-constrained satellite designs, particularly for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) missions, the Space CSAC-SA65 extends radiation tolerance and operates across an extended temperature range. Its atomic stability allows for prolonged operation without continuous reliance on external timing references, such as Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, making atomic accuracy accessible even for the smallest CubeSats.
Specifications
| Product | Function | Radiation Tolerance | Temperature Range | Power Consumption | Volume | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Space CSAC-SA65 (090-02789-007) | Chip Scale Atomic Clock for precise timing | At least 30 kRad | –40°C to +80°C | Less than 120 mW | Less than 17 cc | Built-in 1 PPS I/O, Atomic Stability, COTS |
Key Features
- Radiation tolerance extended to at least 30 kRad.
- Operates in extended temperature ranges from –40°C to +80°C.
- Consumes less than 120 mW of power.
- Occupies less than 17 cc of volume.
- Features built-in 1 PPS input and output capabilities for synchronization.
- Provides atomic stability, enabling extended operation without continuous reliance on external timing references like GNSS.
- Manufactured as a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) product.
- Utilizes radiation-tolerant commercial electronic components.
- Offers shorter lead times and lower overall costs compared to traditional space-grade oscillators.
- Designed specifically for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) missions.
- Supported by Microchip’s Clockstudio™ software for control and analysis.
- Comes with a dedicated CSAC Developer Kit.
Applications
- Satellite timing and frequency control.
- Satellite clock reference.
- Assured positioning, navigation and timing (PNT).
- Satellite cross-linking.
- Satellite-to-cellular communications.
- Alternative navigation.
- Earth imaging.
Availability
Microchip’s Space CSAC-SA65, part number 090-02789-007, is now available for purchase. Customers can contact Microchip sales representatives or authorised worldwide distributors for purchasing and product information.
