NEXT Semiconductor Technologies is working with BAE Systems to integrate its latest ultra-wideband antenna processor units (APUs) into radiation-hardened electronic subsystems for future space applications. These APUs combine signal acquisition and generation with reconfigurable digital processing to support wideband RF signal processing in satellite sensors and transmitters. The collaboration aims to expand available processing capabilities for space-based systems.
NEXT’s latest antenna processor unit, the NX450, operates at 200 GS/s with 100 GHz of instantaneous RF bandwidth, distributed across four independent receive and transmit channels. It is designed to simplify sensor architecture by enabling signal digitization and processing closer to the sensing point, potentially improving electronic warfare system performance while reducing sensor size, weight, and power (SWaP). Manufactured using GlobalFoundries’ 12LP (12 nm) FinFET process, the NX450 includes embedded processor redundancy and has undergone radiation testing for space suitability.
As satellite networking proliferates, the demand for both greater data payloads and on-orbit processing is driving the advancement of System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions such as APUs that define the capabilities and performance of satellite antenna systems. The NX450 is the first device of its kind to address the emerging demands for secure wide bandwidth satellite communication (SATCOM).
BAE Systems will provide support of the NX450 APU for use in proliferated low-Earth orbit missions. The company may also work with NEXT to incorporate its own application specific integrated circuit technology and expertise for use in future SoC products. These next-generation, radiation-hardened solutions are the key enabler of wide bandwidth capabilities in demanding space environments.
NEXT Semiconductor is a fabless semiconductor company developing system-on-chip (SoC) solutions for space applications. The company provides a product roadmap targeting low size, weight, and power (SWaP) electronics for use in both on-orbit and terrestrial platforms.
For more information, visit nextsemi.com.
