RT-SADE (Solar Array Drive Assemblies & Electronics)

12 01 2026

Frontgrade has introduced the RT-SADE, a state-of-the-art, radiation-tolerant stepper motor controller that sets a new benchmark for precision, reliability, and mission assurance. Designed for next-generation spacecraft and high-reliability systems, RT-SADE provides robust motion control for critical mechanisms such as solar array drives, antenna pointing systems, and spacecraft articulation assemblies.

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What is RT-SADE

RT-SADE is a radiation-tolerant, microprocessor-based controller designed to operate a single stepper motor in either 2-phase or 3-phase (wye) configuration.

Key Features:

Radiation-Tolerant Electronics

Built around a rad-tolerant microprocessor
Total Ionizing Dose (TID): 30 krad
Robust single-event latch-up immunity (62 MeV·cm²/mg)

Dual Control Modes for Redundancy

RT-SADE provides two independent motor control interfaces:

Discrete digital interface for single-step increments
Optional RS-422 full-duplex serial interface for multi-step operation and full telemetry

Both interfaces can operate simultaneously, increasing mission resilience and architectural flexibility.

High-Precision Micro-Stepping

Supports micro-step resolution down to 1/256, enabling extremely accurate positioning required in solar array drives and precision pointing mechanisms.

Advanced Telemetry and Diagnostics

Through the serial interface, users can monitor:

Motor position
Motor current
Line voltage
Thermistor and potentiometer data

Integrated fault management improves system uptime and simplifies integration into spacecraft avionics.

Optimized SWaP Design

Mass: 1.0 kg
Dimensions: 7.2 × 3.8 × 2.2 in
Power consumption: 8 W typical / 12 W max
Supply voltage: 22–36 V

This compact profile makes RT-SADE suitable for next-generation modular systems, including MOSA-compliant platforms.

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Product Name	Part Number	Dimensions LxWxH in cm	Mass (kg)	Operating Voltage (VDC)	# of Channels	Interface	Motor Configuration
RT-SADE	181D300-2-2	7.2 x 3.8 x 2.2	1	22-36	1	Discrete	2-Phase
RT-SADE	181D300-2-2R	7.2 x 3.8 x 2.2	1	22-36	1	RS-422	2-Phase
RT-SADE	181D300-2-3	7.2 x 3.8 x 2.2	1	22-36	1	Discrete	3-Phase
RT-SADE	181D300-2-3R	7.2 x 3.8 x 2.2	1	22-36	1	RS-422	3-Phase