The **PE9930-12-R** is a high-performance, radiation-hardened (RadHard) Point-of-Load (POL) DC-DC converter module, primarily designed for space applications and extreme environments. It is manufactured by **pSemi** (formerly Peregrine Semiconductor). --- ### ## Technical Specifications The following table outlines the primary electrical and environmental characteristics of the PE9930-12-R: | Parameter | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Input Voltage Range** | 10.2V to 13.8V (12V Nominal) | | **Output Voltage Range** | 0.6V to 5.0V (Adjustable) | | **Max Output Current** | 30 Amperes | | **Efficiency** | Up to 94% | | **Switching Frequency** | 1 MHz (typical) | | **TID (Total Ionizing Dose)** | 100 krad (Si) | | **SEL (Single Event Latch-up)** | Immune up to LET > 80 MeV·cm²/mg | | **Package Type** | Hermetic Ceramic Package | --- ### ## Core Electronic Components & Features The module is not a single transistor but an integrated **Power Stage/Controller System** in a single package. Its architecture includes several critical electronic sub-systems: #### 1. UltraCMOS® Technology The internal circuitry is built using pSemi’s proprietary **UltraCMOS** technology (Silicon on Sapphire - SOS). Unlike standard bulk silicon, the sapphire substrate is an insulator, which provides: * **Radiation Hardness:** Naturally resistant to latch-up. * **Low Parasitic Capacitance:** Allowing for high-speed switching and better efficiency. #### 2. Integrated Power MOSFETs The device contains high-side and low-side power MOSFETs designed for high-current delivery. Because these are integrated within a single module, the "loop inductance" is minimized, reducing voltage spikes and EMI. #### 3. Control Logic and Protection The electronic design includes internal circuits for: * **Over-Current Protection (OCP):** Shuts down or limits current during a short circuit. * **Under-Voltage Lockout (UVLO):** Ensures the device only operates when the input voltage is stable. * **Soft-Start:** Gradually ramps up the output voltage to prevent high inrush currents that could damage delicate space-grade FPGAs or ASICs. #### 4. Thermal Management The module uses a thermally enhanced ceramic package. In space (vacuum), heat cannot be dissipated via convection, so the electronic layout is optimized for **conduction** through the bottom of the package to the PCB heat sink. --- ### ## Typical Application Circuit When designing with the PE9930-12-R, engineers typically integrate it as follows: ```mermaid graph LR Vin(12V Bus) --> Filter[Input Capacitors] Filter --> PE9930[PE9930-12-R Module] PE9930 --> Inductor[Power Inductor] Inductor --> Vout(0.6V - 5V Load) Vout --> Feedback[Resistor Divider] Feedback --> PE9930 ``` ### ## Common Use Cases * **Satellite Power Systems:** Providing stable power to FPGAs (like Xilinx Virtex-5QV). * **Deep Space Probes:** Where high TID resistance is mandatory. * **Defense Systems:** High-reliability radar or communication arrays. ---