Session
Technical Poster Session I
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
A general-purpose architecture combining the SpaceVPX and FMC open standards is proposed for future high-performance space systems in the 10 to 500kg range. This modular architecture promotes the reuse of components across subsystems reducing mission risk, cost, and development time. The data throughput of the selected standards supports modern high-bandwidth payloads such as high-resolution cameras, communication systems, and synthetic-aperture radars. This architecture also favors a high level of integration of payload and avionics subsystems enabling high levels of reliability and low SWaP. The small SpaceVPX 3U form factor (100mm wide) enables high-performance systems with low volume, but the limited User Defined (UD) pins to the Backplane can become a bottleneck in the system. The introduction of the FMC standard makes it possible to circumvent the UD pin limitations and implement Input/Output (IO) mezzanine modules as an alternative to Rear Transition Modules (RTMs). The FMC can also be used for more complex functionalities to provide an extra layer of configurability to the system, implementing functions such as mass storage and digitization. When the FMC is not used for IO and more UD interfaces are needed, unused pins can be repurposed and routed through the Backplane to an IO board.
SpaceVPX/FMC for Electronics Standardization and Modularity in High-Performance SmallSat Architectures
Utah State University, Logan, UT
A general-purpose architecture combining the SpaceVPX and FMC open standards is proposed for future high-performance space systems in the 10 to 500kg range. This modular architecture promotes the reuse of components across subsystems reducing mission risk, cost, and development time. The data throughput of the selected standards supports modern high-bandwidth payloads such as high-resolution cameras, communication systems, and synthetic-aperture radars. This architecture also favors a high level of integration of payload and avionics subsystems enabling high levels of reliability and low SWaP. The small SpaceVPX 3U form factor (100mm wide) enables high-performance systems with low volume, but the limited User Defined (UD) pins to the Backplane can become a bottleneck in the system. The introduction of the FMC standard makes it possible to circumvent the UD pin limitations and implement Input/Output (IO) mezzanine modules as an alternative to Rear Transition Modules (RTMs). The FMC can also be used for more complex functionalities to provide an extra layer of configurability to the system, implementing functions such as mass storage and digitization. When the FMC is not used for IO and more UD interfaces are needed, unused pins can be repurposed and routed through the Backplane to an IO board.
