Programming and Applications of the Radiation-Hardened Lattice GAL16V8D-10LD/883 PLD

The Lattice GAL16V8D-10LD/883 represents a cornerstone technology for digital logic design in environments where reliability is paramount. As a Radiation-Hardened (Rad-Hard) Programmable Logic Device (PLD), it is specifically engineered to withstand the detrimental effects of ionizing radiation, including single-event upsets (SEUs), latch-up, and total ionizing dose (TID) effects. This makes it an indispensable component for aerospace, satellite systems, nuclear instrumentation, and other high-reliability applications where system failure is not an option.

The programming of this device follows a well-established flow for Generic Array Logic (GAL). Designers typically create their logic design using Hardware Description Languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, or through schematic entry. The design is then compiled and fitted for the target architecture. A key step is the generation of a JEDEC file (JED), which is the industry-standard format containing the fuse map data that programs the internal AND-OR logic array of the GAL16V8. This programming is performed using a universal programmer equipped with a dedicated socket adapter, ensuring the high voltages and specific timing required to blow the internal fuses are correctly applied.

The GAL16V8D-10LD/883 architecture provides immense flexibility. It can be programmed to emulate a wide range of standard logic functions, most commonly serving as a state machine controller, address decoder, glue logic consolidator, or bus interface manager. Its 10ns maximum propagation delay (indicated by the ‘-10’ in the part number) offers sufficient speed for numerous critical control path applications. The device features eight output logic macro cells (OLMCs), each of which can be individually configured by the JEDEC file to be combinatorial or registered, and as an active-high or active-low output. This programmability allows a single device to replace dozens of discrete logic ICs, dramatically reducing board space, weight, and power consumption—all critical factors in system design.

The ‘/883’ suffix is of utmost importance, denoting compliance with the MIL-PRF-38535 qualified manufacturers list (QML) requirements. This certification ensures the device has undergone rigorous testing and is produced under a controlled flow, guaranteeing performance across the military temperature range (-55°C to +125°C) and, crucially, its resilience in radiation-intensive environments. This level of assurance is non-negotiable for mission-critical systems where longevity and data integrity are essential.

In practical application, the Rad-Hardened GAL16V8D-10LD/883 is often deployed as the central control unit in satellite sub-systems, managing power sequencing, sensor data multiplexing, and communication protocol handling. Its immunity to radiation-induced errors ensures the long-term operational stability that simpler commercial-grade parts cannot provide.

ICGOOODFIND: The radiation-hardened Lattice GAL16V8D-10LD/883 PLD remains a vital and reliable solution for implementing complex custom logic in extreme environments. Its programmability offers significant design integration advantages, while its MIL-specified rad-hard qualification provides the unwavering confidence needed for aerospace and defense applications, where failure is not an option.

Keywords:

1. Radiation-Hardened

2. JEDEC File

3. Programmable Logic Device (PLD)

4. MIL-PRF-38535

5. Glue Logic