News

13 October 2009

 

Congress awards Microsemi $2m contract for SiC-based avionics components

Microsemi Corporation of Irvine, CA, USA says that Congress has appropriated $2m for its Power Products Group in Bend, Oregon. The funding will be used develop critical silicon carbide (SiC)-based components for data communications systems in future designs of lighter and more efficient jet fighter aircraft.

News of the funding came from Washington in an announcement by Oregon U.S. senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden of the passing of a defense appropriations bill that includes Microsemi's on-going development of next generation SiC RF components.

According to the firm, SiC offers several advantages in avionics, including: increased reliability, extended battlespace coverage, point-of-use power conversion, and reduced size and cooling requirements. SiC plays a key role as battlefields become more networked and the demands for expanded bandwidth and high operation increases.

"Microsemi is committed to leading the development of silicon carbide components at our Bend operations that will enable advanced communications for both defense and commercial applications," said James J. Peterson, Microsemi’s president.

See related item:

Microsemi’s SiC RF power devices for VHF and UHF radar win award

Search: Microsemi SiC SiC RF power transistors

Visit: www.microsemi.com