Using NAND Flash-Based Devices in Aerospace Applications

When working in aerospace applications, environmental conditions vary and can often be harsh. In commercial travel alone, many parts used in aircraft must be specially designed to account for extreme changes in pressure, temperature, and other factors. This being said, military and NASA missions have even more intense standards and requirements for their allotted part types. In particular, electronics and related devices that are deployed into outer space have to meet extremely high standards due to niche issues of radiation and other factors unique to space travel. For the purpose of data collection in such environments, aerospace technology, such as that used by NASA, relies on NAND flash-based devices. For your better knowledge, this blog will take a closer look at how these devices operate and the role they play in aerospace applications.

NAND flash is a type of non-volatile storage technology that may be used in applications where general technology would fail. A form of solid state drive (SSD technology), NAND flash devices comprise interconnected flash memory chips that retain data without relying on the continuous flow of power. Unlike a hard drive, flash technology is useful for applications where quick erasure and reprogramming of data are required, rather than read-only applications. This data storage technology is typically used in computers and may be removable in many instances.

The main advantage that NAND flash-based devices offer space technology is their ability to resist data corruption caused by environmental factors. A major concern for aerospace data is the effect of ionizing radiation on storage devices. During normal operating conditions, NAND technology is unavoidably susceptible to single-event effects (SEE) and total ionizing dose (TID) degradation, both of which cause data errors; however, NAND devices are equipped with error correction code (ECC) algorithms to counter such errors. This allows such devices to both detect and correct errors during the reading process so all data is read correctly.

NAND flash-based devices also have a number of qualities that make them functional in aerospace conditions. For example, they are mechanically very durable, resisting shock and vibration while being physically flexible. Additionally, basic testing requirements ensure all NAND flash-based devices used in aerospace applications are vetted for use in certain temperatures, humidities, and other working conditions, such as exposure to salt spray, UV light, and fluids. Meeting these demands is difficult and requires much consideration. For example, PC board assemblies must be conformal coated, and all components must be specially selected for temperature extremes, humidity, and heat tolerance. That being said, such high standards allow for fool-proof, errorless missions.

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Kickoff the procurement process with us today by submitting an Instant Request for Quote (RFQ) form with as much information as possible, including target prices, shipping deadlines, and desired part quantities. Within 15 minutes or less, a member of our team of experts will contact you with a custom quotation for your comparisons. To learn more, call or email us at any time!