Microchip Launches Rad-Tolerant 20A GaN Converter for Space

Microchip Technology has introduced the POL-05-20S-T, a radiation-tolerant gallium nitride (GaN) point-of-load (POL) converter designed for spaceborne processing systems. The device delivers up to 20 A of continuous output current in a compact surface-mount package, targeting both new-space and traditional space applications that require high power density, efficiency, and radiation resilience.

Measuring 1.51 × 1.51 × 0.45 inches and weighing 25 g, the converter addresses the power and space constraints of increasingly capable onboard computing platforms. Its GaN-based power stage supports efficient power conversion while meeting the high-current demands of modern digital processing devices.

The POL-05-20S-T targets high-current, fast-transient loads, including the core voltage rails of field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and other processing-intensive components. It uses a synchronous buck topology with current-mode control to provide stable regulation and rapid response to load-current changes.

The converter operates across an input voltage range of 4.75 V to 13.2 V, with an adjustable output from 0.7 V to 5 V. This flexibility enables designers to configure multiple supply rails for different processing devices and subsystem architectures. Remote sensing and adjustable output droop regulation further support voltage regulation under dynamic load conditions.

Radiation tolerance is a key feature. Microchip specifies electrical parameters before and after exposure to total ionizing dose (TID) levels of up to 50 krad. The converter is also characterized for single-event effects (SEE) at linear energy transfer (LET) levels up to 43 MeV·cm²/mg. These specifications address the radiation-related risks encountered in space environments. The operating temperature range extends from −55°C to +100°C at full load, supporting operation across demanding thermal conditions.

Additional features include undervoltage and overvoltage protection, soft-start control, an enable input and a power-good indication output. Together, these functions help simplify power sequencing, system supervision and protection in mission-critical applications.

The new converter expands Microchip’s broader space power portfolio, which includes electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters, DC-DC converters, POL regulators, high-reliability discrete components, FPGAs and PIC64-HPSC high-performance spaceflight computing devices. This integrated portfolio helps developers simplify system design, manage qualification risks, and accelerate the deployment of space electronics.

The POL-05-20S-T is available now in production quantities.

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