MA61C SmallSat

MA61C SmallSat is SPiN’s intelligent, plug-and-play Command and Data Handling unit sized for small-satellite platforms, which can also host the onboard software. Like the rest of the MA61C family, it automatically adapts between the communication interfaces and protocol standards of different subsystem suppliers (AOCS sensors and actuators, communication, power, payload) and the standard expected by the onboard computer, removing the need for manual configuration or driver installation.

An internal database of Electronic Data Sheets (drivers) gives MA61C SmallSat plug-and-play functionality: device recognition, self-configuration and driver installation without user intervention. It scans connections, detects incoming data, and routes and converts data between interfaces. The SmallSat variant supports SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, I2C, SPI, CAN, RS422, RS485 and GPIO, adding MIL-STD-1553 bus support to serve larger, more complex missions than the CubeSat variant.

The core of MA61C is a GR712RC dual-core LEON3-FT SPARC V8 processor with 64Mbit SRAM and 64Mbit FLASH onboard memory for software, drivers and data storage. The package includes an API and a Windows GUI for commanding and monitoring connected subsystems via USB.

By integrating MA61C, users streamline the entire SmallSat lifecycle – from design and supply-chain management to system integration – accelerating time to space.