CFC-500-1

Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) offer a desirable alternative due to the significant boost in processing power over traditional CPUs, particularly with respect to highly parallelizable applications, such as: camera, RADAR, and focal plane array (FPA) image processing. The CFC-500 was developed to utilize these advantages in order to offer unprecedented levels of performance. The CFC-500 is based on the high-performance NVIDIA TK1 GPU technology, and leverages the design philosophy from the CFC-400. The CFC-500 consists of a NVIDIA TK1, a Xilinx Kintex Ultrascale+ FPGA, and support circuitry. The modular and scalable approach of the CFC-500—with its stackable Accelerator Boards with additional NVIDIA TK1s can achieve TFLOP performance to provide capabilities unseen in the space industry.

The NVIDIA TK1, is ideal for aerospace systems due to self-hosting, high-performance, and low Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) at a cost-effective price point. These embedded system-on-chips (SoC) incorporate multicore processors in addition to a GPU, all on a single chip. To validate the design of the CFC-500, Innoflight, using its rigorous qualification process and software, performed extensive radiation testing of the TK1 SoC and supporting circuitry. Innoflight took the approach of extensive radiation effects testing along with developing and implementing mitigation methods on the GPU to extend functional lifetime and suitability for a wide variety of space applications.

Each individual CFC-500 is qualified by Innoflight before delivery. This includes Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP), and workmanship thermal cycle testing. For additional testing measures and services please consult Innoflight’s available services.