A rad-hard DC-DC converter controller

This work presents a radiation hardening controller for a DC-DC converter. Radiation hardening circuits are used typically in space applications. An overview of the radiation effects on bulk CMOS integrated circuits, as well as, the design techniques required for radiation tolerance are presented. Power converter constraints and trade-offs are discussed and the state-of-the-art radiation tolerant current mode controller for switch mode power supplies implemented is described. The controller was integrated in AMS 0.35μm CMOS technology and uses ELT MOS transistors for radiation hardening. The fabricated IC was tested proving its functionality.