Modeling of Select Mixed-Signal Electronics for Cold Temperature Environments

Future NASA missions such as icy moons and worlds will be subject to operating in extreme cold using mixed-signal electronic components. At present, models for mixed-signal components do not include significant temperature dependence, ADCs in particular. By developing comparatively generic models that are cold-capable, the ability to integrate mixed-signal parts into a larger system greatly increases. We have focused on Analog to Digital Converters (ADCs) because of their widespread, critical usage in avionic subsystems and lack of available cold macro models. This paper provides an overview of testing and modeling of a commercial off the shelf (COTS) ADC across cryogenic temperature for the purposes of trend identification, performance prediction and reliability scoping with possible post-correction capability. The development of this model will hopefully permit greater integration of commercial components in larger avionics systems, decreasing development time while increasing flexibility of designers when trying to meet mission objectives.