Deployment of the Single-Event Effects Test Training Platform (LabRaTTS)

The Laboratory Radiation Test Training Simulator (LabRaTTS) prepares engineers for radiation testing of electronics without the need for a full radiation source. The initial embodiment is based on Texas A&M University’s Heavy-Ion Beam facility. As a pathfinder for deployment and curriculum development, a copy of the test platform has been constructed and deployed as a collaboration between Arizona State University and Vanderbilt University under the SCALE program. ASU has focused on emulating single-event burnout (SEB) of power devices, achieved by designing and building a high-voltage switching matrix coupled with an SEE emulator attachment. Using a threshold model for SEB and single-event leakage current (SELC), the ASU team has replicated these effects on selected power MOSFET devices under various drain biases and LETs (Linear Energy Transfer). Additionally, a mockup of TAMU’s Heavy-Ion Beam facility including the control room and beam cave has been constructed at Alphacore in Tempe, AZ. A comprehensive lesson plan is being developed to guide the user through SEB testing using the training simulator.