C-MAC MicroTechnology Partners with Linear Technology

C-MAC will assemble, test and qualify Linear Technology's rad-hard (RH) die in a new range of package outlines at its plant in Great Yarmouth, United Kingdom. This relationship will combine C-MAC's vast range of microelectronic packaging and test services with Linear's state-of-the-art portfolio of high performance analogue integrated circuits (ICs). For the first time, customers outside the USA will be able to purchase high reliability, space grade monolithic and multichip modules incorporating Linear's RH IC designs from a European manufacturer. The product range will be available with qualification to ESA's ECSS-Q-ST-60-5C hybrid procurement specification or to MIL-PRF-38534 Class K and will undergo radiation testing for total dose accumulation and single event effects. The two companies combine a wealth of design and manufacturing expertise in microelectronic technology and this partnership confirms their position at the forefront of space grade microelectronic solutions.

Paul Hill, General Manager, at C-MAC MicroTechnology, said, This partnership brings together the expertise of two highly respected companies within the space sector. We aim to provide the industry with a wide range of radiation hardened products to meet our customer's needs, with the ease of procurement from a European source. C-MAC has been supplying space grade products for more than 20 years and this partnership with Linear Technology allows us to expand our product range using some of the most highly respected rad-hard die on the market today. From our earliest discussions, it quickly became apparent that our two teams share the same philosophy and ideals and we look forward to a long and successful partnership.

C-MAC began its journey in the space market in the mid-1980s with high performance resistor networks quickly followed by MIL-STD-1553 data bus transceivers and full remote terminals. Close relationships with leading OEMs led to the design, manufacture and qualification of custom microcircuits for programmes such as Artemis, Inmarsat III and IV and the International Space Station.

Steve Munns, European Marketing Manager, Military and Space for Linear Technology, stated, The partnership with C-MAC will enable the development of product solutions that are tuned to local market needs. By working together we will accelerate the speed of new product introductions and will be able offer a greater breadth of products in this expanding market segment. Linear is recognized for its rad-hard IC technology and we believe C-MAC provides complementary capabilities that will make this a very successful partnership.