Microchip Technology Released Radiation-Tolerant Converter
The new hardware provides power solutions for space-based processing applications.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Semiconductors
Microchip Technology has released its POL-05-20S-T Point-of-Load converter in production quantities. The device is specifically engineered to handle power constraints encountered in space processing environments.
Why it matters
Space-bound electronics must endure extreme radiation and temperature fluctuations, making specialized, durable power components essential for reliable mission performance.
The converter delivers up to 20A of continuous current using Gallium Nitride components in a synchronous buck topology. It weighs 25g and measures 1.51 inches by 1.51 inches by 0.45 inches.
The players
Microchip Technology
Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, this corporation is a leading provider of smart, connected, and secure embedded control solutions.
The details
The device features an input voltage range of 4.75V to 13.2V and an adjustable output range of 0.7V to 5V. It is rated for operation in extreme temperatures between -55°C and +100°C and supports Single Event Effects up to 43 MeV·cm²/mg.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Microchip Technology released the converter in production quantities.
The Tech Race
The shift toward Gallium Nitride in space-hardened electronics represents a broader industry move to replace legacy silicon-based power systems. This transition enables more efficient power management in increasingly compact satellite and spacecraft architectures.
This release provides engineers developing aerospace technology with a specialized tool to improve power efficiency in orbit. Users can now integrate this compact, radiation-tolerant converter into mission-critical hardware designs.
The takeaway
Reliable power conversion is a cornerstone of modern space exploration as hardware continues to shrink in size. Developers should ensure that their circuit designs account for the specific radiation and temperature thresholds supported by this new device.
Further reading
Find more insights into the evolving landscape of power management hardware in our Semiconductors section.
