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Microdot - A Four-Bit Microcontroller Designed For Distributed Low-End Computing In Satellites, Anthony R. Woodcock

Theses and Dissertations

Many satellites are an integrated collection of sensors and actuators that require dedicated real-time control. For single processor systems, additional sensors require an increase in computing power and speed to provide the multi-tasking capability needed to service each sensor. Faster processors cost more and consume more power, which taxes a satellite's power resources and may lead to shorter satellite lifetimes. An alternative design approach is a distributed network of small and low power microcontrollers designed for space that handle the computing requirements of each individual sensor and actuator. The design of microdot, a four-bit microcontroller for distributed low-end computing, is …