STMicroelectronics has introduced the RHRDAC121 radiation-hardened digital-to-analog converter (DAC) which operates down to 2.5 V for use in modern, low-power system designs that older 3.3 V parts cannot support.

Consuming just 0.6 mW at its maximum speed and supply voltage, the 12-bit 1 Msps successive-approximation register (SAR) DAC helps reduce size, weight, and power (SWaP) in next-generation satellites. Typically used in circuits for telemetry, housekeeping, and precision sensor-gain adjustment, its features include an SPI-compatible serial output, internal voltage reference, and automatic power-on-reset to zero-volt output. These ensure high precision with minimal external components, saving circuit complexity and board area.

Maintaining stable performance parameters in harsh conditions up to 100 krad (Si) total ionizing dose (TID), the RHRDAC121 is a single-event latch-up (SEL)-free up to 125 MeV.cm²/mg. It is characterized by single-event transient (SET) and single-event upset (SEU) and is ready for immediate deployment with no further up-screening required.

The RHRDAC121 is QML-V qualified and comes in a hermetic ceramic package with gold or solder-dipped leads. It is also available as a bare die. Designed and manufactured in Europe, it leverages ST’s 130 nm pure CMOS technology and processes proven over 45 years of serving the space industry. The DAC’s development has been funded by CNES (Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales), the French Space Agency.

The price for the RH-DAC121K1 engineering model (EM) is $950.00, for orders of 10 units. The RHRDAC121K01V flight model (FM) is $2450.00.

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