Overview of field programmable analog arrays as enabling technology for evolvable hardware for high reliability systems

The recent commercial availability of field programmable analog arrays (FPAAs) is leading designers of high reliability space and ground support systems to consider how these devices can lead to new applications. They hold promises for analog systems that require reactive evolvability such as those that correct defective mechanical deployments. They are also suited to evolving circuits, which change with temporary or degenerative electrical conditions such as those associated with power systems during specific periods of orbit in space flight and with the effects of aging on electronic components. FPAAs are seen as a key enabler to a system in development that will enable circuit development in a hardware environment that can be programmed and tailored for a given system's electrical input/output/load environment.