Design of a power-optimized micro miniature advanced instrument controller for sensor craft applications

A highly-functional self-contained sensor data acquisition and processing system is under development for a probe designed to penetrate the surface of Mars. The processing system, based on an 8051 controller, is about the size of a postage stamp, weighs three grams, and consumes 50 mW in nominal operation. It is designed to operate in space under 15,000 G impacts and down to -120/spl deg/C temperatures. Though small, its 32 analog inputs, six serial ports, 32 digital interface lines, eight analog outputs, and in-situ reprogrammability make this device attractive for direct application in many aerospace systems.