The past, present and future of EEE components for space application; COTS-the next generation

Electrical, Electronic and Electromechanical (EEE) components may represent only 5% of a total space system cost, but at an individual equipment level they can be 50%. This can seriously disadvantage equipment suppliers. Commercial pressures, largely due to the massive increases in demand from other sectors, are reducing the number of manufacturers interested in supplying the specialised space market. Both of these factors represent a challenge for the space industry. This paper identifies component industry trends, examines the traditional methods of achieving "space quality", addresses how the space industry can adapt to this changing scenario, looks at the options for space standardisation/qualification, challenges some established practices and, finally, considers performance specifications.