Computer Technology Section

The Computer Technology Section in the Space Science and Engineering Division designs, fabricates, tests, and integrates advanced flight processor systems. Primary technical areas include command and data handling systems and payload controllers. Advanced packaging techniques are used to manage the thermal, structural, and environmental aspects of the target application. Processor architectures include both RISC (RAD6000, TL320C30-603E) and CISC (X86) designs.

Buddy Walls, Manager

Technical strengths and contacts in the section include:

• Advanced packaging
  Benny M. Piepgrass
  
  
• RISC processor design
  Michael K. McLelland
  
  
• CISC processor design
  Michael K. McLelland
  
  
• Design review and analysis
  John M. Stone
  
  
• FPGA design
  Steve Persyn
  
  
• Test software
  Buddy Walls
  
  
• Specialized interfaces
  Michael K. McLelland
  
  
• Radiation effects
  John M. Stone
  
  
• Redundant power supply systems
  Michael E. Epperly
  
  
• Flight fabrication
  Bill E. McLaren
  
  

Applications of the section's computers include:

• Traction controller for drive-by-wire armored vehicle
• Launch vehicle controller
• Attitude control processor
• Command and data handling computer
• Payload processor for science and military payloads
• Solid state memory subsystem
• Pipeline inspection vehicle
• Global positioning satellite (GPS) beacons
• CCSDS telemetry and telecommand processors

Division Publications

Space Systems Department Space Science and Engineering Division
SwRI Technical Divisions SwRI Home

November 03, 2008