Pluggable Socketed Processor Module E (PSPM E)

PSPM E is a pluggable socketed processor module (PSPM) for use with the CubeSat-compatible Development Board (DB). By adding a PSPM E to a DB, the user creates a CubeSat-compatible Command & Data Handling (C&DH) module built around a Microchip PIC24FJ256GB210 low-power 16-bit microcontroller (MCU). PSPM E has a PIC24FJ256GB210 in a 100-pin ZIF socket with 256 KB internal Flash memory and 96 KB internal RAM, and enables up to 16 MIPS operation via its 8 MHz external crystal. PSPM E also has an on-board, external AT25DF641 64 Mbit SPI serial Flash memory chip, and a micro-B USB connector.

Each unit includes a fully tested PSPM E with a Microchip PIC24FJ256GB210 installed in its ZIF socket.

PSPM E is part of the CubeSat Kit development hardware line and plugs into a Development Board (DB); it is used to create and debug PIC24 software and/or hardware for the CubeSat Kit. Because PSPM E uses a socketed processor rather than a soldered-on processor (as on the flight PPM module), a development mistake (e.g., accidentally shorting two digital outputs) can typically be recovered from with a simple, low-cost ($10 or less) processor replacement. PSPM E is electrically identical to PPM E1, meaning software developed on PSPM E in a development environment will run identically on PPM E1 in a flight environment.

Compatibility: Development Board (DB), Microchip PIC24FJ256GB210, Microchip ICD 3, Microchip PICkit 3, USB cables with micro AB plugs.

PSPM E is included in: the CubeSat Kit /PIC24 with PIC24FJ256GB210 (PSPM E + PPM E1), and the CubeSat Kit Upgrade to PIC24 with PIC24FJ256GB210 (PSPM E + PPM E1).

Purchasing restrictions: prospective customers must purchase an entire CubeSat Kit first before purchasing additional PSPM Es a la carte; PSPM E is available only to customers who have already purchased a CubeSat Kit /PIC24 (PIC24FJ256GB210), with proof of prior purchase required, since the supplemental schematics and software needed to use PSPM E are only included with a full CubeSat Kit purchase.