Introduction
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have achieved a notable breakthrough in the field of space technology with the successful development and launch of an aerospace-grade semiconductor chip named ‘IRIS’. This development is a crucial milestone for India as it aims to become self-reliant in the sphere of space technology and reduce its dependence on foreign semiconductor technologies. The IRIS chip, designed primarily for Internet of Things (IoT) and computing systems, is built around the SHAKTI processor, aligning with India’s vision of enhancing indigenous capabilities in space applications.
Development and Testing of the IRIS Chip
Collaboration Between IIT Madras and ISRO
The creation of the IRIS chip was a collaborative effort between the ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU) based in Thiruvananthapuram and IIT Madras. They worked together to define the requirements and ultimately develop the chip.
Key Features of the IRIS Chip
- Fault-Tolerant Memories: The chip is equipped with internal memory designed to withstand faults, ensuring its reliability in challenging environments such as space.
- Custom Functional Modules: The IRIS chip includes specific custom modules like:
- CORDIC (Coordinate rotation digital computer)
- WATCHDOG Timers
- Advanced serial buses
These features aim to enhance the chip’s functionality and adaptability for various applications.
Rigorous Testing
Before declaring the IRIS chip ready for its intended applications, extensive testing was conducted. This included both software and hardware evaluations to validate the chip’s capabilities to perform effectively in space missions.
Complete Indigenous Fabrication and Assembly
A key achievement of the IRIS chip project stems from its complete development process within India. Professor V. Kamakoti, the Director of IIT Madras, noted that every stage—from chip design, fabrication, and packaging to motherboard assembly and software booting—was executed domestically. This accomplishment is part of a larger initiative titled ‘Digital India RISC-V’ (DIRV), which promotes domestic fabrication of microprocessor-based products while adhering to high-security standards.
Support for Indigenous Innovation
The IRIS chip’s development is also backed by significant support from the Indian government’s initiatives aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing.
ISRO’s Role
Dr. V. Narayanan, the Chairman of ISRO, expressed pride in the successful development of the IRIS Controller. He noted its importance in driving India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, which seeks to enhance local manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependency on imports for critical technologies.
Collaboration With Industry
Kamaljeet Singh, the Director General of the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh, emphasized that SCL is dedicated to collaborating with academic institutions and startups. This collaboration is essential for advancing India’s self-reliance, particularly for niche semiconductor products.
Significance of the IRIS Chip
The IRIS chip represents a significant advance not just for space applications but also for various other fields. Its design and development reflect India’s commitment to building a strong foundational capability in semiconductor technology, which is vital for future technological advancements.
Benefits on the Horizon
- National Security: Having a domestically developed semiconductor technology enhances national security by reducing reliance on external technology that could be subjected to geopolitical risks.
- Economic Growth: The production of indigenous semiconductor technologies can create jobs and stimulate the economy by fostering a robust domestic tech industry.
- Global Competitiveness: By investing in local technology, India can position itself as a competitive player in the global tech arena.
Conclusion
The development of the IRIS semiconductor chip by IIT Madras and ISRO marks a significant leap forward for India’s ambitions in space and technology. With its innovative design and local production, the chip is set to strengthen the country’s capabilities in critical technologies, enabling India to make meaningful strides toward self-reliance in space applications. The collaboration between governmental organizations and educational institutions stands as a model for future projects, highlighting the importance of working together toward national goals in technology and innovation.
This successful endeavor not only reinforces India’s status in the global tech landscape but also lays the groundwork for further advancements and breakthroughs in the semiconductor sector. By nurturing home-grown talent and innovation, India is paving the way for a brighter technological future.
