Actel 5962F9215603QYC Field Programmable Gate Array – LOT OF 16

The Actel RH1280 is a radiation-hardened field-programmable gate array (FPGA) designed for use in military and space applications where exposure to radiation is a concern. Developed by Actel Corporation, the RH1280 offers a gate density of 8,000 gates and is processed using 0.8 µm, two-level metal epitaxial bulk CMOS technology. ​

One of the key features of the RH1280 is its radiation survivability. It is qualified to withstand a total ionizing dose (TID) of up to 300 kilorads (Si), making it suitable for environments with high radiation levels, such as space. Additionally, the device exhibits latch-up immunity and has a tested single event upset (SEU) rate of less than 1×10⁻⁶ errors per bit-day, ensuring reliable operation in radiation-prone settings. ​

In 2006, production of the RH1280 was discontinued, leading to concerns about component obsolescence in existing satellite programs. To address this issue, BAE Systems entered into a license agreement with Actel Corporation to manufacture the FPGA under the new designation RH1280B. This agreement allowed BAE Systems to produce the mature FPGA products needed to support older government and commercial satellite designs, thereby avoiding costly redesigns.

The RH1280B maintains the same specifications as the original RH1280, including the 172-pin ceramic quad flat pack packaging and die form options. It continues to offer a total dose radiation-hardness in excess of 300 kilorads (Si) and guaranteed latch-up immunity, ensuring its suitability for high-reliability applications in challenging environments.

Overall, the RH1280 and its successor, the RH1280B, have played a significant role in providing reliable, radiation-hardened FPGA solutions for critical applications in space and defense sectors.​