Data Processing Unit DPU

The high-performance on-board data processing unit reliably processes, compresses, and transmits your mission data.

Designed for nano- and microsatellites, flight-proven in multiple missions, and flexibly configurable to meet your specific requirements—our Data Processing Unit (DPU) handles data management on board your satellite. 
 

Robust hardware platform

At the heart of the DPU is the AMD Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC, a high-performance chip that combines conventional processors with flexible, programmable logic. This enables data to be processed either in software or directly in hardware, depending on the application, ensuring maximum speed for complex tasks such as image processing.

An additional system controller continuously monitors the entire system: It protects against overcurrent and the damaging effects of latch-up, securely stores important settings, and manages the switchover to a redundant module when necessary.

DPU Compact

High-Performance Data Processing for CubeSats

The DPU Compact combines a processing module, mass storage (two SSDs), and a system controller in an exceptionally compact enclosure. Ideal for CubeSats with limited space, weight, and power on board.

✓ Flight experience aboard the ISS on an infrared imaging mission and on the 12U small satellite ERNST

Your benefit: Proven technology in a small form factor.

DPU Redundant

Redundant configuration for small microsatellites

The DPU Redundant features dual redundancy: Two processing modules operate in a cold redundant configuration: if one fails, the second automatically takes over, including its own mass storage (two SSDs each). Two additional system controllers run continuously in parallel (hot redundancy) and constantly monitor voltages and currents, activate protective functions as needed, and control the switchover between the modules.

The external interfaces are also designed to be redundant: Depending on the application, they are either switched directly within the DPU or configured to allow multiple devices to communicate over a single line using multidrop technology.

✓ Flight experience from multiple commercial Earth observation missions

Your benefit: Minimized risk of failure. Helping your system remain operational even during long-duration missions.

DPU Modular

Maximum flexibility for complex missions

The DPU Modular features a modular architecture: processing, storage, and interfaces (I/O) are housed in separate modules that can be flexibly combined. The base configuration consists of two processing modules, each with its own system controller, and a storage module with four SSDs.

Depending on your needs, additional I/O modules with fast or standard interfaces can be added. The enclosure design, interfaces, number of modules, and power consumption are individually tailored to your mission—including the choice between hot-redundancy, with modules operating in parallel, and cold redundancy, with automatic switchover.

Your benefit: A scalable architecture: from the basic configuration to highly complex missions, without having to change systems.

The DPU Modular is currently under development. The first operational flight model is scheduled for 2027.