SAKTHI BASED SEMICONDUCTOR: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SAKTHI BASED SEMICONDUCTOR: SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

NEWS: IIT Madras develops indigenous Shakti semiconductor chip for ISRO

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

IIT Madras and ISRO have developed IRIS, an indigenous aerospace-grade semiconductor chip based on the SHAKTI microprocessor (RISC-V architecture). This development enhances India’s self-reliance in semiconductor technology, especially for space and industrial applications.

 

What is a Semiconductor Chip?

A semiconductor chip is a tiny electronic circuit that acts as the brain of devices like computers, mobile phones, and even spacecraft. It processes information and performs calculations required for various functions.

 

What is the IRIS Chip?

  • Full Name: Indigenous RISC-V Controller for Space Applications (IRIS)
  • Developed by: IIT Madras & ISRO
  • Architecture: SHAKTI microprocessor, based on RISC-V (open-source)
  • Purpose: Used in space missions, launch vehicles, IoT applications, and industrial automation

 

Why is IRIS Important?

  • Self-Reliance: Reduces India's dependence on foreign semiconductor technology.
  • Indigenous Innovation: Developed fully in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
  • Advanced Capabilities: Optimized for high performance and reliability in space applications.

 

Background: SHAKTI Microprocessor & DIRV Initiative

What is the SHAKTI Microprocessor?

  • SHAKTI is India’s first indigenously developed microprocessor series, designed by IIT Madras.
  • Uses RISC-V Architecture, which is open-source and can be modified for different applications.
  • Supported by the Indian Government under the ‘Digital India RISC-V’ (DIRV) initiative.

 

What is the ‘Digital India RISC-V (DIRV)’ Initiative?

  • A government program to promote India's self-reliance in semiconductor technology.
  • Encourages the development of secure and efficient microprocessors based on RISC-V.
  • Aims to reduce dependency on imported chips by making Indian-designed chips more competitive.

 

Evoltion of India’s SHAKTI Chips

1.      RIMO (2018):

    • First-ever SHAKTI chip, mainly a technology demonstrator.
    • Not fully optimized for real-world applications.

2.      MOUSHIK (2020):

    • Improved performance but lacked advanced error correction and optimization.
    • Still not suitable for high-end applications.

3.      IRIS (2024):

    • First fully optimized Indian chip for aerospace & space applications.
    • Designed specifically for ISRO’s command and control systems.

 

Key Features of IRIS Chip

  • Fault-Tolerant & Reliable: Can withstand extreme conditions of space travel.
  • Security & Performance: Includes custom watchdog timers and advanced serial buses for smooth operations.
  • Future-Ready Design: Supports multiple boot modes & hybrid memory extensions for future space missions.
  • Supports ISRO Applications: Can be used in rockets, satellites, ground stations, and industrial automation.

 

Why is IRIS a Milestone for India?

  • Strengthens India’s Semiconductor Ecosystem: Reduces the need for foreign semiconductor imports.
  • Boosts ISRO’s Capabilities: Allows indigenous chip design for India’s space programs.
  • Aligns with ‘Make in India’ & ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Goals: A step towards self-sufficiency in critical technology.

 

Understanding RISC-V Architecture (Simple Explanation)

What is RISC-V?

  • RISC-V (Reduced Instruction Set Computing - Version 5) is a type of computer processor architecture.
  • Unlike traditional processors, it is open-source, meaning anyone can use and modify it for free.
  • Why is this important?
  • It lowers development costs.
  • Can be customized for different needs (e.g., space, AI, IoT, defense).
  • Countries can develop their own processors without relying on foreign companies.

 

India’s Two Major Microprocessor Series

  1. SHAKTI Microprocessors – Developed by IIT Madras
  2. VEGA Microprocessors – Developed by C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing)

 

 

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/iit-madras-develops-indigenous-shakti-semiconductor-chip-for-isro/article69206782.ece#:~:text=The%20effort%20marks%20a%20milestone,says%20institute%20director%20V.%20Kamakoti&text=The%20Indian%20Institute%20of%20Technology,quality%20Shakti%2Dbased%20semiconductor%20chip.