Microchip Is... Trade-Offs Between Traditional and New Space

Interview With David Bail, Director of Oscillator Products at Microchip Technology Inc. 

David Bail, Director of Oscillator Products at Microchip Technology, discusses the role of microchip timing in space and the significant changes occurring in the space market. 

David explains how the space industry has evolved over the past couple of decades, shifting from a focus on high reliability and government contracts to a more commercialized approach driven by the rapid deployment of mega constellations. This transformation has led engineers to prioritize cost and lead time, often opting for commercial off-the-shelf parts while still maintaining a calculated approach to reliability. 

The conversation covers various applications of satellites today, including communications, global asset tracking, earth observation, and even space tourism. David emphasizes the importance of balancing risk and reliability, especially as new space ventures often involve thousands of satellites, which necessitates a different mindset compared to traditional space missions. 

David also discusses the technical challenges of creating solutions that can withstand the harsh conditions of space, including radiation tolerance and mechanical stress during launch. He highlights Microchip's long history in the space sector and how their extensive product portfolio, which includes both quartz and atomic timing solutions, positions them as a trusted partner for customers. 

Find out more about Microchip’s solutions for space application design here: https://www.microchip.com/en-us/solutions/aerospace-and-defense/space 

 

Time Stamps 

[00:27] – Meet David Bail: Director of Oscillator Products 

[02:54] – Driving Forces Behind New Space Applications 

[05:14] – Engineers' Mindset Shift in New Space 

[08:16] – What is Sacrificed in New Space Applications? 

[12:43] – Microchip's Adaptation to New Space Market 

[14:53] – Overview of Microchip's Product Families 

[27:16] – Microchip's Contributions to Space Missions 

[29:29] – Key Takeaways on Microchip and Timing in Space 

 

Follow David Bail 

David Bail on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bail-b36a4111/  

 

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