Priyanka Tiwari
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The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL), Chandigarh, have successfully developed Vikram 3201, the first fully Indian-made 32-bit microprocessor designed to function in the harsh environments of launch vehicles. The processor was manufactured using 180nm CMOS semiconductor fabrication technology at SCL.
This new processor is an advanced version of Vikram 1601, a 16-bit microprocessor that has been operational in ISRO’s launch vehicle avionics systems since 2009. In 2016, a "Make-in-India" version of Vikram 1601 was introduced after the establishment of SCL’s 180nm semiconductor fabrication facility.
Kalpana 3201: SPARC V8-Based RISC Microprocessor
The Kalpana 3201 is a 32-bit SPARC V8 RISC microprocessor developed under the IEEE 1754 Instruction Set Architecture. This processor is compatible with open-source software toolsets and integrates seamlessly with ISRO’s in-house developed simulators and Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It has been rigorously tested with flight software, ensuring reliability in space missions.
High-Performance Features and Software Support
Both Vikram 3201 and Vikram 1601 feature a custom Instruction Set Architecture (ISA), with support for floating-point computations and high-level programming in Ada language. ISRO has also developed essential software tools in-house, including:
- Ada compiler
- Assembler
- Linker
- Simulator
- Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
Additionally, a C language compiler is currently under development to expand compatibility across different user domains.
Successful Space Validation and Production
The initial batch of Vikram 3201 microprocessors was successfully validated in space aboard the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4) during the PSLV-C60 mission. Recently, the first production lots of Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 were officially handed over to V Narayanan, Secretary of DOS & Chairman of ISRO, by S Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
Additional Avionics Developments
Alongside the microprocessors, ISRO and SCL have jointly developed four additional devices aimed at miniaturizing launch vehicle avionics systems. These include:
- Reconfigurable Data Acquisition System (RDAS) with multiple indigenous 24-bit Sigma-Delta Analog to Digital Converters on a single chip
- Relay Driver Integrated Circuit
- Multi-Channel Low Drop-out Regulator Integrated Circuit for high-reliability applications
New Developments in Pressure Sensor Technology
In a significant step towards advanced testing capabilities, an MoU was signed between ISRO's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and SCL for the development of miniaturized unsteady pressure sensors. These sensors will be used for measuring dynamic pressure variations in wind tunnels, enhancing ISRO’s aerodynamics research.
Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance in Space Technology
The development of Vikram 3201 and Kalpana 3201 marks a milestone in India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in high-reliability microprocessors and onboard computing. These advancements will play a crucial role in navigation, guidance, and control systems of future launch vehicles, strengthening India's space technology ecosystem.
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