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For a small LEO satellite, the VPT VSC15-2800S is a direct 10–15 W reference: VPT specifies 30 krad(Si) guaranteed total ionizing dose (TID), 40 krad(Si) test exposure, and single-event-effects (SEE) testing to 42 MeV/mg/cm². It is not automatically the right converter for every mission. Compare its evidence and electrical characteristics with alternatives such as VPT’s 6 W SVRSA2800S, Microchip’s 50 W LE50-28, and ST’s non-isolated LEOPOL1 step-down regulator—and then check each part against the spacecraft’s radiation environment, power architecture, thermal design, and qualification requirements.
What does “rad-tolerant” mean for a LEO power converter?
“Rad-tolerant” is a claim bounded by a product’s test conditions and assurance level, not a universal radiation grade. A TID value describes resistance to accumulated ionizing radiation under specified conditions; it does not by itself describe a converter’s response to a single energetic particle. SEE performance, dose-rate assumptions, shielding, operating temperature, and the mission’s qualification process also matter.
NASA’s DC/DC Converter Reliability and Radiation Effects portal is intended as a guide for electrical designers and EEE parts engineers. Its emphasis on reliability, failure concerns, usage data, and technology evaluations reflects the practical point: converter selection and qualification are program-level engineering decisions, not a choice made from one radiation number.
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Which converters are useful LEO comparison points?
The products below are not interchangeable. The VPT and Microchip parts are converter modules; ST’s LEOPOL1 is a point-of-load regulator, so its role in a power tree differs. Figures are limited to the product information identified below; confirm current datasheet revisions and conditions before design-in.
#1 Best Overall
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| Product | Type and power | Input and output information | Radiation evidence in cited product information | Best comparison use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VPT VSC15-2800S | Converter module; 10–15 W models | 15–50 V continuous input; 3.3, 5, 12, or 15 V output options | 40 krad(Si) test exposure; 30 krad(Si) guaranteed TID; SEE testing to 42 MeV/mg/cm² | Small LEO / NewSpace designs weighing guaranteed performance against cost |
| VPT SVRSA2800S | Space-qualified converter family; 6 W | 18–40 V input; 3.3, 5, 12, or 15 V output options | Guaranteed TID performance to 100 krad(Si); SEE limits not stated in the cited VPT product information | Lower-power designs seeking a higher stated TID guarantee |
| Microchip LE50-28 | Isolated converter; 50 W nominal | Nine single- and triple-output variants spanning 3.3 V to 28 V; input range not stated in the cited Microchip product information | Specific TID and SEE limits not stated in the cited Microchip product information | NewSpace / LEO designs needing a higher nominal power class and multiple output choices |
| ST LEOPOL1 | Non-isolated, rad-hard step-down point-of-load regulator; up to 5 A under the stated radiation condition | 3–12 V input; ST specifies up to 5 A at 5.5 V under the stated radiation condition | Uses BCD SOI technology and hardening by design; a numeric TID or SEE limit is not stated in the cited ST product information | Local step-down regulation where an isolated module is not the required topology |
VPT VSC15-2800S: small-satellite reference
VPT describes the VSC15-2800S series as designed for smaller LEO satellites and NASA Class D missions, where cost and guaranteed performance must be balanced. The series spans 10–15 W models, accepts 15–50 V continuous input, and offers 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V, or 15 V outputs. Its 40 krad(Si) test exposure and 30 krad(Si) guaranteed TID are different claims: the tested exposure is not the same as the guaranteed operating limit. VPT also reports SEE testing to 42 MeV/mg/cm²; that test level should not be treated as a complete guarantee against every mission-specific SEE concern.
VPT SVRSA2800S: 6 W with a higher stated TID guarantee
The SVRSA2800S is a 6 W space-qualified family identified for LEO through deep-space missions and launch vehicles. VPT specifies an 18–40 V input range, output options of 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V, and 15 V, and guaranteed TID performance to 100 krad(Si). That higher TID figure does not establish superiority for every use: the family has a lower stated power rating than the VSC15-2800S, and the cited product information does not state a numeric SEE limit.
Rank #2
- LED Numeric Display: The buck converter features an LED voltmeter display with a measurement error of ±0.1V. The input voltage range is 4.0V to 40V, and the output voltage range is 1.25V to 37V. Note that if the input voltage drops below 4V, the onboard voltmeter will cease operation and no display will be shown. To turn off the voltmeter, hold the switch for 1 to 4 seconds and release it. Once disabled, the voltmeter can be reactivated by briefly pressing the switch
- LM2596 Adjustable Buck Converter: This second-generation voltage regulator operates at an internal oscillation frequency of 150KHz, offering low power consumption and high efficiency. It incorporates high-quality solid capacitors to enhance circuit stability and durability while effectively filtering out high-frequency noise
- Ease of Use: The LM2596 adjustable buck converter allows for easy adjustment of the output voltage using a mini screwdriver. Terminal blocks are provided for quick and solder-free connections
- Features & Safety: The input side of the LM2596 buck converter is protected by two diodes, ensuring safe operation even in the event of reverse polarity connection. Additionally, the module includes overheat and short-circuit protection. For applications exceeding 15W, adequate heat dissipation measures should be implemented
- Applications: The LM2596 buck converter is highly versatile and performs effectively in a wide range of applications, including automotive power supplies, DIY projects, and industrial equipment. It is suitable for both professional users and beginners
Microchip LE50-28: 50 W isolated option
Microchip presents the LE50-28 as an off-the-shelf 50 W converter for NewSpace and LEO, with nine single- and triple-output variants spanning 3.3 V to 28 V. It is a candidate when the required power level and output arrangement fit a 50 W class part. The cited product information does not provide numeric TID or SEE limits or an input range, so those items need confirmation from the current datasheet and supplier for the specific variant.
ST LEOPOL1: point-of-load regulation, not an isolated module
LEOPOL1 is a rad-hard step-down regulator in a plastic package, built using BCD silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology with hardening by design. ST specifies 3–12 V input and up to 5 A at 5.5 V under the stated radiation condition, for LEO-targeted spacecraft use. It should be compared as a non-isolated point-of-load regulator, not as a drop-in alternative to an isolated DC-DC module. The cited product information does not state numeric TID or SEE limits.
Rank #3
- 【Working Voltage Range】: DC 8.5V to 50V input voltage, 10V to 60V continuously adjustable output voltage, 15A maximum input current, 12A maximum output current.
- ★The boost module has 2 heat sink that could enhance heat dissipation. When there is a big difference between input and output voltage, please decrease power and current.
- 【High Conversion】: The maximum conversion efficiency can be 96%.The DC 400W 15A Power Module designed with two heat sinks, better dissipation performance.
- 【Easy to Connect and Disconnect】: Input and output are designed with screw terminals, you can connect or disconnect the wire conveniently.
- ★Widely used for electric equipment, digital products, laptop and more. It can also be used as a driver for high power LED lights or voltage regulator for solar panels.
How should you decide how much radiation tolerance a LEO converter needs?
Start with the mission’s predicted environment and assurance requirements, then compare those requirements with evidence for the exact converter and operating conditions. There is no universal TID target for all LEO missions: orbit, mission duration, shielding, component location, and project risk posture can change the required margin.
- Establish the radiation environment. Use the mission’s dose analysis and shielding assumptions to identify expected TID and relevant dose-rate conditions at the converter location.
- Assess SEE separately. Check the applicable SEE response and test conditions; a TID guarantee or an SEE test level alone does not answer the other question.
- Apply program assurance rules. Determine the qualification approach, parts controls, redundancy strategy, and acceptable failure modes required for the spacecraft program.
- Check electrical and thermal operation together. Confirm input range and transients, output voltage and load current, efficiency, temperature limits, and any thermal derating in the exact mission configuration.
What should you compare beyond the radiation rating?
A part that meets a dose target can still be unsuitable for the power system. Compare the following items using the current manufacturer documentation and the project’s design rules:
Rank #4
- 【Parameter】 DROK Power Supply Module input volt range is DC 5.3-32V; Output volt range is DC 1.2-32V which is variable. Output current can reach to 8A and Output Power can reach to 120W for long-time use. If enhance heat dissipation, this converter can reach 12A and 160W output.
- 【Characteristics】 This Buck Converter is equipped with LCD Display, Acrylic Case and Heat Sink. LCD Screen can display input/output voltage, output current and output power. Voltage precision is 0.05V, current precision is 0.005A. Acrylic case can keep the converter board away from dust, which is protective. Heat Sink can keep module 120W for long-time using in a low temperature. If you want to reach maximum power 160W, please improve heat dissipation.
- 【Easy Operation】 A user manual will be included in package, which can help you easier to operate. The button can control ouput voltage ON/OFF status, and you can set the default output state is ON/OFF for the next time. The potentiometer can help you to adjust volt amp in a simple and fast way.
- 【Protection】 It has reverse-connect protection, short circuit protection and over current protection. When you connect the input wire reversely or short circuit, the module will not burn. And roate the CC potentiometer to set over current protection value you want.
- 【Application】 The volt conversion board can be used for 5v 6v 9v 12v 24V 30V 32V 3a 5a 10a devices, like solar panel, lab, experiment, RV, All-Terrain Vehicle, car, battery charger, LED stripes, etc.
- Topology: isolated module or non-isolated point-of-load regulator, and how it fits the power-tree architecture.
- Electrical envelope: continuous input range, transient tolerance, output voltage options, current capability, and continuous output power for the selected model or variant.
- Thermal performance: efficiency, operating-temperature range, heat dissipation, and derating under the intended mounting and airflow or conduction conditions.
- Radiation and assurance evidence: TID guarantee versus test exposure, SEE data and conditions, dose-rate assumptions, qualification level, and the manufacturer’s radiation-hardness-assurance process.
- Mechanical and program constraints: package, outgassing requirements, export constraints, lead time, supplier support, and eligibility for the project’s procurement and qualification process.
NASA’s DC/DC reliability guidance and the cited vendor product information are useful starting points, but they do not replace verification against the spacecraft’s approved requirements. Check the latest revision for the precise part number and output configuration before committing a design.
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Which part is the right starting point?
For a compact LEO design in the 10–15 W range, begin by checking whether the VSC15-2800S’s continuous input range, output options, and 30 krad(Si) TID guarantee match the mission. Consider the SVRSA2800S if 6 W is sufficient and its 100 krad(Si) TID guarantee is relevant to the project’s assurance case. Consider the LE50-28 when a 50 W isolated converter and its available output variants fit the architecture, while independently confirming its radiation data. Use LEOPOL1 when the requirement is for non-isolated local step-down regulation and its electrical and radiation conditions fit—not as a substitute for an isolated converter.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- PARAMETER --- input voltage DC 8V-35V (24V 12V 9V); output voltage DC 5V; output current 3A; output power 15W.
- APPLICATION --- 12v to 5v step down converter. Can be used for car audio, LED display; motor, speaker; auto map navigator; hard disk player; media; electric fan; toy cars; air conditioning; solar energy, etc.
- PROTECTION --- over-current protection; over-temp protection; input reverse connection protection; short-circuit protection; waterproof; dust-proof; moisture-proof; shock-proof.
- CONVERSION EFFICIENCY --- over 95% max.
- FEATURE --- high conversion efficiency, low heat generation; aluminum case, good heat dissipation, high safety.
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