Microcontroller for embedded space applications: Specification and design verification

The objective of the activity is to define and consolidate a detailed set of requirements for the implementation of the next generation of microcontroller device for low-end space applications and to design and develop prototypes to be validated in a laboratory environment.

As pointed out during the round table on Microprocessors for Space Applications (ADCSS09) the need for a reduced cost and highly integrated microcontroller for low-end space applications is strong. The obsolescence of the 80c51 is creating a hole not filled by the available high-end microcontrollers like the AT7913E.This type of applications implies a reduced component price, a small and easy to be assembled low pin-count package (not BGA) and (monolithic) integration of essential system components (e.g. memory as RAM and (EE)PROM, serial I/Fs, GPIO's, PWM, ADC etc.) and a low power consumption. A key point is that well known SW development and validation tools should be easily available.The first phase of the activity will specify high-level requirements on the microcontroller from the user's perspective. Requirements coming from current and future projects shall be identified. Potential application areas are for example Motion Control, Sensor Wireless Networks, Power Distribution Systems, Sensors Acquisition.This will serve as input for the second phase where a detailed trade-off will be performed and detailed implementation requirements will be written.The third phase will consist in the design and development of the microcontroller. Prototypes will be developed and validated in a laboratory environment.